Saxophone Lessons in Westwood, MA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I start of my lessons by asking how much the student practiced for the week. Then I ask them if there was anything that was confusing for them so we can work on that first. I let the student pick what they want to start with first and then I will pick the next exercise. I finish with giving them a homework assignment and making sure they understand what to practice for next week. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

To teach the flute I use the Blocki Flute Method. This method consists of a set of books and the pneumo pro, a device that aids in the learning of sound production of the flute. For piano I use the Bastien Piano Books Series. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

For beginners, I have a multitude of etudes, simple songs, and exercises to encourage sight-reading, finger comfortability, and basic cognitive understanding of music fundamentals such as scales. For guitar, I usually begin with fun simple songs such as "What do we do with the Drunken Sailor" and a simple blues. For woodwind instruments, I'll typically begin with songs such as Hot Cross Buns, Mary Had a Little Lamb, or some holiday songs during the holiday season. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

I take the time to get to know the student and which methods would best benefit and keep the spark ignited. For standard piano lessons, Bastien and Faber methods are always a hit with both children and adults. For Saxophone lessons I use the "Standard of Excellence" book that most school bands use. I have also written a lesson book of my own that I use pages from. If the student would prefer presenting their favorite records/songs and learning the styles and sounds that they hear, we can go down that road! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

I've taught private lessons for around four years, since I was a junior in college. I now also teach music theory and composition at The Community Music Center of Boston. I believe that, as great as regular, focused practice is, it is also my job as a private tutor to shape each and every lesson around an individual student's specific needs. I've seen a lot of teachers use a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all pedagogical approach, and I don't think that's productive for my students or myself! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Music

I am a strong believer in listening before you play. When it comes to younger students this can be challenging, yet also rewarding. Younger students require a lot of demonstration as far as how to hold and position your fingers. It is a lot of muscle memory, and most new students need proper technique to get them to enjoy their instrument. I find this takes patients. For more advanced students I would get into music theory, improvising/experimentation, ear training, and composition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Music

But more importantly, she can become her own judge of the sounds she makes. She has obtained an increased appreciation of classical music and improved her sensitivity to musical details. My third student had the strongest background, but the weakest connection to music initially. I have helped her listen rather than play. As she gradually develops a sense of good sound, her playing changed dramatically, and her practice management improved. Read More