Saxophone Lessons in San Gabriel, CA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For younger beginning students, I typically use a method book, such as Accent on Achievement or something similar. For older beginners, I typically use the Rubank beginner's book. With this book, the student learns the fundamentals for their instrument. Once the student demonstrates an understanding of this, we will move on to sheet music. For more advanced students, we will typically use an etude book like Klose to explore the technical aspects of musical performance (such as technique development, phrasing, dynamics, etc.). Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Music

Playing music is fun! Lessons should reflect that. One of the things I learned in my studies was to hold my students to their own standard of excellence instead of trying to have them meet my own. In addition to all of the technical aspects of playing an instrument, the greatest asset a musician has is their musical concept of sound. I highly encourage all of my students to listen to the greatest players of their respective instruments. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Derek is most known for his association with the John Daversa Big Band. Derek has had the pleasure of meeting and performing with many of his musical heroes. He has recorded live and studio albums with Arturo Sandoval, Jon Faddis, John Fedchock, James Morrison, Greg Gisbert, Roger Ingram, Paul Stephens, Scott Englebright, Donny Dyess, the Tastee Bros, Bernard Wright, Gene Coye, Steve Reid, Kate Reid, Melvin Butler, Ed Calle, Richard Todd, Mike Brignola, Alex Norris, Dante Luciani, John Hart, Martin Bejerano, Chuck Bergeron, Rick Margitza, and appears on the Gary Lindsay album "Are We Still Dreaming" with the South Florida Jazz Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I use the Rubank method of books as a traditonal conservatory approach to early progression. I find their systematic flow efficient and effective to consistent improvement. We would then move to fulfilling repertoire that would qualify the student for collegiate study and competitive performance. For those interested in jazz, pop, and rock, we would proceed to study several instruction books and recorded material that over the years I have found to successfully progress a student in those genres. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

My main goal is to show students how amazing playing music can be. Nothing is more fufilling than watching a student become inspired to grow as they grasp new ideas and develop a new skill. It is important to instill efficient and productive practice values in a way that that is exciting and fun, and that will foster the desire to learn and progress. Because each person processes information and ideas differently, it is my job to find the best way to "click" with each student in order to maximize their learning and understanding. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

I started playing saxophone when I was 7 years old. Now I have more than 20 years of performance experience. I have both a bachelors degree from Xian Conservatory of Music in classical music and a masters degree from California Institute of Arts in jazz. I can play all kinds of music and make a good balance between classical music and jazz music. In China, I have participated in many orchestras and held the position of chief saxophone player. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

Rick continues to explore and develop his musical voice. Becoming a requested sideman while continuing to compose and pursue his own projects define the commitment to creative expression so vital to him. He has been constantly inspired by music from many countries as a result of concerts and recordings with Gahnian master drummer Kofi Misiso and tabla master Trilok Gurtu. The beauty of music from exotic lands remains an inspriation for Rick to write new music.17 years residency as a freelance saxophonist in central europe resulted in an impressive list of credits both live and recording. Read More