Saxophone Lessons in San Marino, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Ever since I was a kid, I had a passion for mentoring and tutoring. Nothing makes me feel as fulfilled as a long day of teaching, having fun with my students and helping them make progress both in their musical studies and development as people. As a performer, my career encompasses anything from classical and jazz concerts to musical theater productions and studio recording sessions. I am constantly looking for new ways to contribute to my craft and find new outlets for performing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

During a lesson I tend to organize the lesson so that there are three or four parts. Usually I begin with long tones then we move to articulation. Then I usually incorporate a few small musical studies that cater to style and performance type. During this time it is important for the student to pay attention to the timbre of their performance. Next I cater to the students ability to create their own character with a solo. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

Eric Letta is saxophonist, clarinetist, composer, recording artist, and teacher. His roots are deeply grounded in the traditions of jazz, but his exciting and creative style incorporates all genres, such as r&b, funk, and modern bop. A native of Akron, Ohio, he was a member of the Ohio All-State Jazz Ensemble before earning a degree from Kent State University. He spent the first ten years of his musical career playing in jazz and show bands around the Midwest. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

With beginning students, I start with the fundamentals of the instrument, including embouchure and finger technique, as well as the ability to breathe properly, which is fundamental to playing any wind instrument.  I also introduce beginning students to basic musical concepts, such as reading music, and tailor the musical selection to their tastes or to whatever group they are playing in, most often a school band class.  For more advanced students, I observe what areas the student needs the most work in and tailor the lessons specifically to dealing with those areas, as well as catering to their individual musical tastes. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

First, I will ask my student what they want to do today. We are all subject to feeling differently about certain subjects every day and for example, might feel more inclined to learn scales one day and then maybe learn about the history of Jazz music another day, so it's my job to cater to those desires and let the student dictate the path our lessons take. I'm solely here for the student and not any self interest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium Oboe Bassoon

I've been teaching in the greater Los Angeles area for almost 20 years, teaching students from ages 4 - 92 (yes, really! 92!). Levels range from beginning to professional, with advanced students having won scholarships and awards. I encourage all of my students to learn the language of music; to learn about their instrument and the best means of expression using that instrument.  For the past 8 years, lessons have been supplemented with an annual holiday recital where students have the opportunity to perform, which is an important part of the learning process! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

A student will never practice if they're not having fun, and they won't have fun if they're being pushed harder than they want to be pushed. Therefore, when I start with a student, I always ask how much they want to improve and how quickly, how important music is to them, and how much time they're willing to invest daily. We continue on the student's pace, and find the most efficient and fun way to get the student's goals. Read More