Saxophone Lessons in Woodbridge, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I want to train a generation of musicians who are able to skillfully express their full range of emotions through their chosen instrument. I believe that starts with a foundation of support, persistence, and consistency. I teach my students by approaching skills and musical concepts with patience and clear intent to progress to a higher level. I am cautious to not overwhelm students by piling them with music that is way beyond their skill level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

Playing an instrument needs to be fun, and natural. In my classes, I not only teach the tools to make music. I also teach how to create a relationship with it. Such relationship with music has been proven to improve one intellectual capacity, motor skills, and social skills. What I propose in my classes is a way for the student to express better himself using his instrument, not just play it. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods depend entirely on where the student is beginning. If the student does not play in a school setting, I will usually start with Essential Elements. If they are playing in band, I will use whatever their teacher starts with in band and progress from there. If the student has been playing for a while and no longer can use Essential Elements, I will see what music they are interested in. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

I grew up in the Washington DC area playing Clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, and Baritone Sax. I attended Walt Whitman High School and was a member of its award winning Jazz Ensemble as a Tenor Saxophonist. In 2003 I was selected as the lead Alto Saxophonist for the Maryland All-State Jazz Ensemble. I went on to study Jazz at Emory University in Atlanta under Gary Motley and E.J. Hughes. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

I am a consummate musician and music educator. With over 45 years experience in the music education profession, I have taught numerous students, ranging in age from children through adult, beginner through advanced levels. I have considerable teaching experience in both the public and private school setting, as well as at the college and university level. In addition to my teaching activities, I have been active as a soloist, recitalist, conductor, lecturer, author, and administrator. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

A typical lesson with me will be structured like this:Emphasis on basics (scales, studies, tuning, etc)Sight Reading and Ear TrainingLearning techniques through pieces I am always aiming for technical building through the process of working through real music in order to keep lessons fun and engaging. I typically start beginning students with Essential Elements and work through the basics with that approach. Read More