Saxophone Lessons in Villa Park, CA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been teaching music for over 17 years. My teaching experience includes private saxophone, flute, clarinet, and piano lessons. Additionally, I've given clinics, taught group lessons, and directed bands at various music workshops for grades 4-8. A seasoned teacher, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of students, of varying ages, skill levels, and learning capabilities. Years of experience have molded me into a highly flexible teacher, able to adapt quickly and easily to the needs of different learners. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching experience dates back to my College days when I tutored students while a student at Berklee. I have been performing private lessons for the past twenty years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the most important key points, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I teach both Classical and modern jazz styles and techniques and the combing of the two can go a long way to help the students enjoy playing more. 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

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard

I use the teaching method as previously described, and try to tailor my style for each student. Everyone learns, practices, and progresses uniquely -- so it's part of MY job to figure out the best approach to help each of my students. My experience in both the civilian and military music communities has given me a very open-minded but direct approach to WHAT you should learn, and HOW FAST you should be able to progress each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

As an instructor at an after-school music academy, I coached jazz ensembles ranging in size from big band to combo and taught private saxophone lessons. From teaching students of most age levels, I have learned several approaches to teaching jazz music and improvisation. Connecting with each student in a way they understand and find enjoyable almost always leads to quicker and more satisfying results for the student. I am currently a teaching artist for the Herbie Hancock Institute through UCLA. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

There's a thing about certain musicians who have made it very far. For example, Charlie Parker never would've been Charlie Parker if Jo Jones didn't chuck a cymbal at him when he messed up. He never would've wanted to sit and practice for hours and hours a day to become who he became. I won't go that far, but it's just an example, I will give good constructive criticism to make sure that my students progress as much as they can to become the next Charlie Parker. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

With beginners, I focus on developing sound fundamentals. It's important to avoid any bad habits and beginning students are lucky in that they have the opportunity to establish proper technique from the very start. As students progress, I use books such as the Universal Method and Rubanks Duets to learn to read notes and understand rhythms. Duets are an amazing tool as they hold students responsible for their individual part, while still functioning as a supportive and interactive activity. Read More