Saxophone Lessons in Wheaton, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My number one rule when teaching students about music is to HAVE FUN. Music is meant to be fun and bring joy to people. While in lessons, we will learn about scales and arpeggios and work through exercises. And, believe it or not, I have got some ways to make those fun! Depending on if you want to study classical music or jazz, we might study a sonata or transcribe a solo. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

My teaching style is a mix of fun and discipline. I love to joke around and I feel that humor can help calm the nerves. Humor helps create a bond, and when we bond we show that we care. The student needs to care just as much as the teacher, and when we put these things together we form a great student/teacher relationship. I also know when it's time to be serious and focus on the lesson. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Music

Teaching is something I have always felt passionately about. I first started teaching at the age of 14, teaching martial arts to young kids nearly every day at my stepfather’s martial arts school. As I grew up and began taking music more seriously, teaching remained an important part of my life: as clarinet section leader in the Marine Corps Forces Pacific Band in Hawaii, I was responsible for administering weekly lessons to other clarinet players in the band, and I also worked with several school music programs in Hawaii, developing and leading masterclasses for K-12 students. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Oboe English Horn

As I said earlier I tend to use the Rubank and Essential Element books in lessons. I start with seeing what the students goals are and making a goal sheet. For instance if a student is interested in Musicals. We will start with our basic warm up and techniques but on top of that I would assign an excerpt from a musical that correlates with the current lesson. So that way the student is working toward their goal and having fun doing so. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I can remember the first time I heard the music of John Coltrane. I was thirteen and had just begun learning saxophone. His music was deeply moving and inspired me to pursue a life of music - specifically jazz saxophone. Best decision I've ever made! I graduated from Western Michigan University with a BM in Jazz Saxophone Performance. While in school I had the privilege of sharing the stage with many jazz greats including Bobby McFerrin, Randy Brecker, Stefon Harris, Fred Hersch, and many more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

I have been a private lessons instructor since 2006. The instruments I have taught include: piano, harp, saxophone, and clarinet with an emphasis on classical music. I have also worked as an elementary general music teacher since 2014. Our curriculum includes developing knowledge and skills in performance (vocal/ instrumental), literacy, history, composition, appreciation and evaluation. In addition to my teaching experience, I also have many years worth of performance experience in both classical and jazz settings, which has greatly helped me in being able to provide instruction and direction to students seeking to pursue music performance as a career. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I have a passion for music that I hope one day to pass on to my students. Even if one of my students develops a love for music, I can say I have lived a fulfilling life. In spring of 2023, I graduated from UIC with a Jazz studies degree and my main instrument is Tenor Saxophone. I graduated with college honors and I received the Presser Foundation Undergraduate Scholar award for my musical achievements. Read More