Saxophone Lessons in Whittier Heights, WA

Instruments: Saxophone

For methods; it will honestly depend on if the student has been working through something with a prior lesson teacher or after the first lesson and seeing what the interest is in either jazz or classical will go from there. For classical; I would utilize the Rubank method books that I used when doing classical music. For jazz studies, I find it more beneficial to start with the Charlie Parker Omnibook, Realbook, then start learning things by ear and memory depending on the level of the student and the progress we are making. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My teaching method is tailored to the desired goal of the student. I commonly employ classical fundamentals, which provide the student with tools needed to play the instrument. These fundamentals include: long-tones (for tone production), scales (for technique), overtone series (for the low/high range of the instrument) and reading music. From here, each lesson is modified to the particular student's goals, whether that is improvisation, playing jazz, performing classical literature, exploring experimental music, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I've been teaching for over forty years. Many of my students have been successful in various auditions and life in general. There are many factors that enter into that, and I am happy to be one of those factors that helped them on their way. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Shakuhachi Conga

I have been a martial arts instructor and basketball/baseball coach for many years.Working with younger people has given me the skills to be an understanding and compassionate music instructor.i approach every student as an individual with different goals and needs.My teaching system is to approach every new student as an unique individual.I am very comfortable with teaching the foundations of music as well teaching how to improvise and solo, especially in the jazz context.I have had my own teaching practice for over 20 years with ages 6-80 years old. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

For beginners, whilst working with a Standard of Excellence book, it's important to take the time to work on things on a smaller level throughout. Although working through the books and going onto the next level is the goal, I find it imperative ensure that the techniques are being fully utilized along the way. For example, we don't want to just read the notes and play along, we want to make sure that articulations, tone, breathing techniques and fingering is also being focused on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

For my younger students I usually start with major and minor scales tied in with simple to challenging etudes. I do not have a specific book that I work out of, though if the student has one that they work out of I would be happy to accommodate. For adults I usually have the same approach, but we will focus more on a specific genre or style that they may want to emulate. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I teach not only how to play the instrument proficiently, but how to play it musically. Techniques and proficiency are taught along side musicianship, expression and appreciation for all musical styles. Students are also assigned a Question of the Week and a Listening Assignment to enhance their knowledge of their instrument, its function in music, and about music as a whole. Read More