Saxophone Lessons in West New York, NJ

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Keyboard

I typically tailor my lesson plans to the needs of the student. In general, I will allocate appropriate Etudes, Scales, and Repertoire that is inline with their abilities and the standards of their particular instrument. If they are preparing for an upcoming performance or audition, that may take precedent. But I also think there is equal need for unstructured time that allows students to explore music as a creativity medium via music listening, exploratory exercises, improvisation, or even composition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Lessons are positive and laid back.  An atmosphere is created to be able to ask any question. Lessons are comprehensive, meaning that they both play to the student's strengths while addressing any weaknesses or information that is typically skipped over in public school simply due to lack of time and having the students on an individual basis.  Lessons are not just theory oriented, but more performing oriented.  There is always a solo to play or duet to sight read. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

I start with assessing the students' capabilities, after which I begin to develop the following areas: Development of their sound; Instrument Technique; Jazz Improvisation and Jazz Language; Theory and Jazz Harmony; Study and Development of Students' Own Repertoire. Depending on the level of the students and their needs, I push certain areas more or less. The key to becoming a successful student is to practice, to develop a good technique, but also to listen to a lot of music to develop the talent for music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My goal is to give my students a strong music foundation such as developing great/productive practice habits, instrument care, exposing them to great artist and bands of different genres that will inspire and motivate them to become the best musicians they can be. I believe in patience is a virtue when it comes to a student's progression in music. I believe that understanding the foundation and fundamentals of learning an instrument is the first step to mastering the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Keyboard

My teaching style is a mixture of a relaxed, conversational feel combined with strong focus. I will constantly insist on stern focus on the material being played- offering big picture ideas as to why a piece is being practiced in a certain way, while asking the student to tell me why such and such a method makes sense. Very small mistakes in the music will be cause to stop and refocus. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I'm a driven instructor who loves nothing more than seeing his students play things they never thought possible. Originally from Montana, I moved to New York City five years ago to pursue a degree in jazz performance at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. Since graduation, I have kept a busy teaching schedule as well as performing both locally and throughout the country. During my time in NYC I have also been fortunate enough to perform with some of my musical heroes including Adam Nussbaum, Doug Weiss, and Matt Wilson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Music Keyboard

I encourage practice, whether it's one hour a day, 5 minutes a day or somewhere in between, but I understand that contemporary students (especially in New York City) have many obligations in terms of academic and extracurricular activities. It is in knowing this, my first goal is to make the lesson fun and relaxed and never a chore or a source of pressure or anxiety for students or parents. The lesson should be a fun and safe place to learn about and to play music! Read More