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Jonathan S Teaches Online
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5
  5.0 (19)

Instruments: Guitar, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Ukulele, Recorder, Music, Acoustic Guitar
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Latin, Funk, Latin Jazz, Swing, Samba, Bossa Nova, Soul, Marching Band

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Jonathan S  
5
  5.0 (19)
Teaches Online
Instruments: Guitar, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Ukulele, Recorder, Music, Acoustic Guitar
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Latin, Funk, Latin Jazz, Swing, Samba, Bossa Nova, Soul, Marching Band

Where I Teach:
Online
Ages Taught: 8-80
Levels Taught:

EMAIL US OR CALL 877-687-4524

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ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:

Master Degree: New Mexico State University,

Bachelor Degree: The College of Wooster

Overview:
I'm an enthusiastic and knowledgeable teacher who loves to work one-on-one with students and help them achieve their artistic goals. I'm originally from Houston, went to the College of Wooster in Ohio, and then got my masters in New Mexico before returning home in 2012. I moved here to San Diego to train circus acrobatics and teach music, and I'm LOVING it here. I've had the pleasure of playing with and learning from some of Houston's jazz icons, including Woody Witt and Kelly Dean, and also training under some of the best classical saxophonists, such as Dr. Rhonda Taylor and Dr. Karen Roll-Gardener. As mentioned previously, I'm passionate about circus arts, and when I'm not practicing my saxophone or teaching, I'm probably training acrobatics or aerial arts.
EXPERIENCE
I began teaching privately in 2004 while attending the College of Wooster. I've been teaching privately ever since! As a faculty member at New Mexico State University and San Jacinto College, I taught core music classes such as music theory and ear training. I also have professional performing experience with numerous groups and ensembles. I've performed in jazz big bands and saxophone quartets around El Paso,TX and Las Cruces, NM, and was a founding member of Bayou City Funk, a funk-rock band based in Houston, TX.
METHODS USED
For all beginners, I start off with basics. I like to use the Rubank Beginner (or intermediate) book along with weekly scales. A well rounded musical foundation is vitally important, so I make sure to balance classical training with ear training assignments that get the student to listen critically to music they're passionate about. I believe that students need to own their music education, so over time, I gradually start to incorporate their interests into weekly assignments. This looks like figuring out a song they like on their instrument. I have found this technique can really ignite a healthy passion for music.
LESSON STYLE
There are few things more rewarding than a student invested in their music education. When first starting out, I focus on building rapport with my student. This looks like praise when they successfully execute an assignment, and focused reflection when the assignment is incomplete. I also spend time gauging exactly how many assignments to give, which depends on the amount of time we have together and how driven I sense they are. I'm careful to give only one or two things to focus on at a time - I don't want to overwhelm them with information!
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RATING & REVIEWS
5
  5.0  (19)
5 star
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Cassandra

5

Outstanding with a tween!!

Lisa

5

Jeremy really enjoyed meeting Jon and taking first lesson from him because Jon was fun and relatable. He took time to explain and easy to understand. Looking forward to many more lessons from Jon.

David

5

I took Private lessons with Jon for almost two years in high school. He was always very knowledgeable and helpful, and was a major factor in my success those years in making All State and other Honor Bands. I only stopped taking lessons when I moved away for college, or else I'd still be taking them now! He was always organized and easy to schedule with. Definitely my best experience with a Private Instructor to date!

Stephanie

5

Jon and I studied at New Mexico State University where we were in the same saxophone studio and eventually, the same quartet. Jon is creative and a very talented instrumentalist. He is great to work with, and his warm personality makes every encounter welcoming. His versatility and ability to perform many different styles is what makes him a cut above the rest. If you're interested in playing jazz, classical, pop, R&B or funk styles, Jon can help you achieve your goals!

Manimala Dwarkaprasad

5

He is absolutely fantastic, he really understands the need and interest of his student and works accordingly. We are very happy with his teaching methods.

Craig M

5

Jon was a great teacher for our teenager, helping him improve his reading while still leaving room open for self-expression and improvising with music that he likes. He is himself a really great musician, and a teacher that knows how to meet students where their interests are and help them learn.

Abby

5

Working with Jon is a pleasure. His knowledge and passion lead the lesson, as a genuine musical curiousity keeps the lesson interesting and challenging. His love for teaching music shines through his endless patience and support.

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