Saxophone Lessons in Somerville, NJ

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with either the Rubank Elementary Method or Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, as I find these provide a strong foundation in proper technique and sound, and reading music. As we move through this method, I will introduce exercises to help the student further develop a good sound on their instrument. At the same time, we will also begin to play solo and duet repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

When I teach beginners, I put my faith in the Hal Leonard Standard of Excellence series for woodwinds. For Pianist, the Suzuki series is quite good, as well as A Dozen A Day and the tried and true Mikrokosmos of Bela Bartok. For more advanced players, I like to work within their preferred style, ie RB, Rock, Classical, but also find it important draw relevant material from other styles like Jazz and non-Western music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Drums Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been an band and orchestra director for several decades and was director of  the brooklyn college big band for 4 years as a grad student.I am quite familiar with concert band,  jazz orchestra & symphonic as well as pop music repertoire .  I have a background of 8 years in percussion ensembles as well as having studied afro cuban, caribbean and indian music. I currently teach guitar, piano, saxaphone, clarinet, drum and percussion classes to children from 5-17 years olden have also taught a few children with autism and ADHD.  I can teach general music appreciation, history, theory, ear training,  and courses re: american music. I can conduct jazz band, symphonic, orchestra, rock band, pit orchestra or percussion ensemble classes as wells perform in musicals as pit drummer.  I  have had 40 years experience performing and directing orchestras in many music genres from broadway pit orchestra, big band jazz, pop,rock, latin, symphonic, military, percussion ensemble and more.  I love music and have performed in all kinds of music events from pop, symphony, opera, rock, big bands, broadway shows and national tours. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For beginner students young and old I start out with Rubank Elementary Method for saxophone. This book provided a solid foundation in basic theory and reading that lead to musical literacy. From there I go towards the basics of improvisation in the blues while continuing with technique books on the side. Once this foundation is in place I begin to encourage the student to explore music they're passionate about and start with the basics of solo transcription and more advanced improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

On the basis of one's skill and prior experience, I will devise a plan starting with ideas of fundamental musical ideas (scales, arpeggios, key signatures, reading music) all the way to more advanced concepts of harmony and placement. Having the opportunity to hear a student's wishes will help me align myself with their goals and intentions musically which will inform my concepts. While there is an expectation that the student gives assistance in their difficulties to decide what is best for them, there also will be a thorough diagnosis of skills and weaknesses, for a better learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I began my teaching days informally when I was still a student at Fairport High School. Some family friends wanted to learn how to play saxophone, so I began teaching them. Next thing I knew, I had a small-time music studio in my parents' basement! I was teaching saxophone as well as jazz improvisation at that time. I took a break from teaching when I went to college, and began teaching again the summer after I graduated. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been teaching since 1990.I like to keep lessons light-hearted, engaging, and fun. I believe that the most important lesson a student can learn is to love and enjoy playing music. Once this is accomplished the rest is easy! Students who learn to love playing an instrument enjoy practicing, progress rapidly, and continue to play music throughout their lives.I work with various band methods, tailored for each student'sindividual skill level and personal needs. Read More