Saxophone Lessons in Upper Marlboro, MD

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods depend entirely on where the student is beginning. If the student does not play in a school setting, I will usually start with Essential Elements. If they are playing in band, I will use whatever their teacher starts with in band and progress from there. If the student has been playing for a while and no longer can use Essential Elements, I will see what music they are interested in. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet Recorder

For my beginner students who are either children or adults, I will typically start your training using the methods Hal Leonard's Essential Elements or Klose methods books.Once you have grasped the fundamentals of your instruments and training, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for your first recital performance such as the works of Mozart, Rose, and Benny Goodman etc. However, for the adults or more advanced players, I will try to find out what most interest you and guide my instruction according to your abilities to keep the lessons more engaging and fun. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Double Bass Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Music Keyboard

The recording of each lesson gives students something to look forward to at the end of our session. Whether they think that they've done really poorly or extremely well, I encourage them to listen to themselves critically and prepare to share genuine feedback. Then we discuss both their strengths and the areas of opportunity for growth. This practice helps students progress over time. Eventually, they become more expressive, creative, confident, engaged and excited about learning and sharing their talents with others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Drums Bass Guitar

Regardless of the instrument or competency level, I always incorporate ear training, music theory exercises, and games into each lesson. With the help of method books and other sources of inspiration, I cater the curriculum to each student's strengths and weaknesses. Live performances are crucial to fully understanding any instrument, and so I encourage my students to perform live as much as possible--and I help them find those opportunities. I also make sure each student is well-organized, and make sure to keep a log of all assignments and lessons, so parents can see if the student is truly progressing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I have nearly 30 years experience playing the saxophone/flute/clarinet. I began teaching (privately) in 2001. Additionally, I've taught middle school band as well as college level courses, including, Improvisation, ensemble, Jazz history and saxophone. My professional career as a jazz musician has taken me to Europe, Japan and the continental United States. I have nearly 30 years experience playing the saxophone/flute/clarinet. I began teaching (privately) in 2001. Additionally, I've taught middle school band as well as college level courses, including, Improvisation, ensemble, Jazz history and saxophone. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo Latin Percussion

For beginning students I like to start with the same book I learned; Essential elements by Hal Leonard. This book comes with a play along that serves as stimuli to the young ear. A compliment and more flute oriented book is Flute 101-103 Which ranges from beginners to medium-advanced students. During this period I will add repertoire appropriate to the level of the student and according to national standards like NISMA and All State. Read More