Saxophone Lessons in Valley City, OH

Instruments: Saxophone

Lately while playing and practicing my saxophone, my 4.5 year old daughter has taken an interest in learning to play with me so that has pushed me in a new direction to begin teaching others. This will be my first experience teaching but want to bring the excitement to students that I see in my own daughter. My abilities range from beginners to intermediate level and want students to be comfortable with the basics and progress as they gain confidence in their ability. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

I use the Alfred Piano series for most of my piano students. Woodwind students will use either Rubank or Hal Leonard series of books. During the first lesson, I will clarify the student's goals and needs and choose a book accordingly. I also add finger warm-ups and breathing exercises. Students are encouraged to pick a song from their own choosing to learn as a "fun-song". I try to cover these three things in every lesson, however I am flexible to meet the goals of my students. My professional motto is that I will do "Whatever it takes" for my students to succeed. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Every student is different. My experience has prepared me for that. I am encouraging, but also patient. My instruction will be tailored to each individual student's needs, interests, and desires so that they can progress on their own musical journey at their own pace. Most importantly, I want to encourage my students to take their talents out of the practice room and into the world whenever they can. Whether it's taking a solo to a contest, joining a community band, or performing for their parents in their living room, my students will be encouraged to have a lifelong love of music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginner saxophone and clarinet players I tend to use the first book in the series from Standard of Excellence. After those first two books I move them into the Rubank Intermediate Series of books. For saxophonist, and even some clarinetist that would like to learn some jazz I use the Lennie Niehaus Jazz Conception Series. I always try to find what the student would like to learn to play and then guide my teaching from that point. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Euphonium French Horn

As I've said above, my teaching is curtailed to the individual needs of my students. I stress development as a complete musician, and that often includes breaking away from technique to discuss other ideas like music theory, ear training, etc. Most importantly, I can explain difficult concepts in many ways. I am a degreed educator, having studied various learning styles and philosophies. I incorporate techniques from Kodaly, Orff, Suzuki, Dalcroze, Alexander--- each student has different needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon

I began teaching privately as a high school student, working with begnning students at the middle school. I have taught privately in my home and in students' homes since graduating from college. Regular practice is very important and something I emphasize with my students. I like to include a mixture of classical and modern music in my lessons, so that students enjoy what they are learning and playing. If a student does not enjoy their time playing their instrument, they will not want to put the practice in and lessons will become a point of argument.  Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Mandolin Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My approach to teaching kids has always emphasized finding joy in the instrument. I will always start with the a good foundation of a solid understanding of music fundamentals and work with the kids at a pace that allows them to grow yet really enjoy what they are doing. For older kids and adults I make sure that I have a good understanding of what they are trying to achieve and provide the tools to allow them to get accomplish their goals. Read More