Saxophone Lessons in Sammamish, WA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I like to start by asking about a student about their prior experience (if any), interests and goals on their instrument. With my students, I generally start by tackling basics like healthy breathing and posture, producing good tone, note-reading, and rhythm. Depending on students interests, we may then gradually incorporate more advanced techniques such as playing by ear, learning longer, more complex classical or jazz pieces, music theory, and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I first started teaching while I was in high school. It all began when I taught at a music summer camp called Camp Winthers. My main responsibilities in regards to teaching were leading instrument sectionals, and giving advice one on one. This would continue summer after summer until I reached college. In the beginning of my time in higher education, most of my lessons taught were to my peers, focused mostly on music theory and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Keyboard

It all depends on the areas of music the student would like to focus on. No matter if it's music theory, composition, or performance, my main idea is to intricately learn the about the music that interests you, learn how to apply it on your instrument, and then use your creativity to create something new. Of course, I make sure that all the bases are covered such as basic sight-reading and transcription skills, but the emphasis is on learning how to channel your imagination so that you can connect your instrument with your inner-ear.  Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My motto is my students create their own lesson. I formulate lesson plans off of the styles of music you are most interested in. If my student has a more "just for fun" attitude, the lesson will inevitably be a more light hearted feel. If the student would like to focus on more technicalities, that as well is a different approach. However, I do have a more structured plan for younger students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I teach not only how to play the chosen instrument, but also about its history and its role across musical styles. Music is fun, and while hard work and practice are important and essential, so is enjoyment of music and enjoyment of one's instrument. I also strive to include music related field trips such as to opera dress rehearsals, to music related sites such as the EMP or to other local performances. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Shakuhachi Conga

I have very high standards for teaching.That is why I did not start teaching until my fourties.At that point I felt that I had both the life experience and skills to be a good teacher.There is a lot more to playing music than just playing the right notes.That is what I call the mechanics of music but the not the soul.Obviously you must start with the basics to get to any deeper level of expression.That is what I am most passionate about.Why does anyone want to play an instrument? Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My teaching method is tailored to the desired goal of the student. I commonly employ classical fundamentals, which provide the student with tools needed to play the instrument. These fundamentals include: long-tones (for tone production), scales (for technique), overtone series (for the low/high range of the instrument) and reading music. From here, each lesson is modified to the particular student's goals, whether that is improvisation, playing jazz, performing classical literature, exploring experimental music, etc. Read More