Saxophone Lessons in West Hartford, CT

Instruments: Saxophone

I began taking private students two years ago with an age range of 14 years old to 62 years old. Since beginning my Master's Degree at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, I am the TA for the Saxophone Department and I currently have 8 students (Freshman and Sophomore Undergraduates). I like to emphasize fundamentals to my students and each week hold them accountable for retaining these fundamental skills such as finger placement and technique, posture and air support and maintaining a steady embouchure. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn Keyboard

My methods used for piano students are the Randall and Nancy Faber teaching books; they are among the very best teaching materials due to their ease of comprehension, their logical sequence of concepts taught, and also their practical exercises and songs for the student. My methods used for Band instruments (trumpet, clarinet, flute, drums, and trombone), are the Standard of Excellence books, as they are also among the very best in regards to explaining musical concepts, presenting new songs, and logical progression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Recorder Piccolo

For novice students, I will most likely start with a method book such as one from the Essential Element's series. However, I will typically move students through the method book quickly and get right into performance repertoire that is appropriate for their age and level. Composing your own pieces and learning to improvise are extremely important in my method of teaching so I will also start teaching students how to write their own music as soon as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is grounded in my own absolute love for music! This passion translates through in my teaching, which hopefully results in successful student learning. I also believe that the teacher needs to develop a rapport with the student, in order for successful learning. Furthermore, as previously stated, I've studied pedagogy at the undergraduate level. I realize what it takes to be a successful teacher, and believe in the importance of exposing young people, as well as folks of all ages, to music and the arts. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe

For younger students, I typically assist and follow the method books students are working on. For example, they may use Standards of Excellence or Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements. These lesson books are crucial to teaching the fundamentals as a student is beginning to learn an instrument. I will break away from the books and introduce appropriate solo repertoire. I will also be mindful to the interests of the students to keep them engaged. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I typically will start them on a method book such as The Yamaha series, and start them on the basic pedagogy of the clarinet and saxophone,ie; putting the instrument together, putting the reed on the mouthpiece, setting the embouchure, etc. I will emphasize the importance of practicing; beginners, 5 times a week for 20 minutes, so they can succeed in learning their instrument. For Intermediate students, in Middle and High School for example, I will include the reportoire they are playing in their school performing groups, so they can excel in those. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Technique as well as theory are equally important. It is also important to have fun while learning. I like to use the Hal Leonard lesson books combined with excersises that I have created. I can also teach songs requested by students and explain and demonstrate how theory and technique apply to the tune. Improvising and playing along with other musicians in songs or jams is highly recomended. Understanding what each student wants to get out of the lesson is important. Read More