Saxophone Lessons in Trafalgar, IN

Instruments: Saxophone

My goal for every lesson is for the students to feel accomplished by the end. This gives them the drive and inspiration that they need to become a great player. I also like to acknowledge students improvements on things they have practiced. In my mind a student will never improve with intense mean criticism. I always acknowledge the good first and things to work on second. This helps with there overall confidence in there playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet

My musical journey began at nine years old with piano lessons - not at all an uncommon beginning but an important one. Less than two years later I joined the band playing clarinet. As a high school student, all-state performances and honor bands fiilled many weekends, and I had the privilege of playing regularly in my church on the piano. While playing in a youth symphony as a senior, we toured in Austria absorbing centers of musical history and playing in four uniquely different venues including a wing of the Schonbrunn Palace. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Synthesizer Lap Steel Guitar

For beginner students who are children I typically just want them to get comfortable with the piano keys and then find simple songs with simple patterns to get a grasp of hand placement, timing, and the joy of playing. For adults, I try to find out what they are interested in, e.g. (song structure, chord intervals, scales, hand technique) and adjust my lessons accordingly to help them meet their goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Drums Organ Synthesizer Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Every student learns differently, so by finding out what inspires my student, I am able to create individiualized lesson plans that cater to my student's needs without losing focus on the fundamentals of music. Music is such a blessing and should be fun! Ample time is given to students to discover their own music and inherent rhythms while studying the vast pedigree of music that has come before us. My lesson plans incorporate everything from reading writing music, jam sessions (often times with me!), and recording time. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe

As a teacher, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a student develop a passion for music. If my students do not leave every lesson feeling inspired, encouraged, and wanting to practice and play music, then I am not doing my job. Just as I tailor each lesson to match the individual student, expect the student to grow and develop as a musician at his/her own pace. Ultimately, music is universally accessible and I want to foster a love and appreciation for listening to music as well as performing music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I cater my teaching and methods to each individual student and his/her needs and goals. For beginners, I often use Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements. After progressing past that, the Rubank books and Hite etudes work for many students. Starting around 8th grade, I introduce solo repertoire appropriate to their level. During lessons, I always have students work on some form of scale, sight-reading, and ear training. I have several duet books (and a Disney book!) that students love to sight-read from. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Organ

There are several different method books that I like to use with my students based on age, knowledge/experience, and of course if the method book they use is something they will enjoy; it's very difficult if a student doesn't like the book they're using so I try to give them options. For beginners, I like to use John Thompson's Easiest Piano Course or the Schuam method books. For additional practice and work, I like to use Schaum's Fingerpower and have the student write out the notes then recite them aloud while playing the exercise. Read More