Saxophone Lessons in Alpine, NJ

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello Saxophone Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard

During the first lesson, I have a short discussion with the student to see what their goals are. I also ask what about music interests them. I then ask them to perform anything of their choice to assess their ability level (if applicable). After that, I tell them what immediately needs to be addressed and how this will work with their longterm goal. Then, based on their progress, we set benchmark goals that are adjusted according to their pace. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

I started playing in the 4th grade. I played in RB bands in high school and enrolled at Berklee College of Music where I have a Bachelor Degree in Composition. I also studied privately with Charles Banacos (increible piano and jazz teacher), Jerry Bergonzi, Joe Viola, Joe Allard ( whose Saxophone methods I teach, who was the teacher of every major saxophone player in his day including Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, and countless others ) , learned circle breathing from Rahsaan Roland Kirk, recorded 2 albums at Grammavision with Al Macdowell (Bass player for 40 years with Ornette Coleman). recodered and learned as much as I could grasp from Don Cherry and Ornette. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone

I am passionate about playing and studying music, and I would like my students to develop a love for music. I encourage my students to work hard and to improve each week, and I emphasize the importance of the process of learning. This helps my students focus, and it facilitates the achievement of their musical goals. My lessons are also fun and engaging. I try to include fun music, musical games, and teacher-student duets to keep the student interested. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

The first thing I like to establish with my students is a solid practice routine. There is no formula that works perfectly for everyone, but I do have a very good system which can easily be altered to fit each students individual needs. The next step is to set realistic goals. When students have a clear vision of what they are working towards, it is much easier to stay motivated and on track to achieving those goals. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching style is focused on playing as much as possible and encouraging good practice habits. The most important thing I can do as a teacher is teach my students good practice habits! This includes showing students not only WHAT to practice, but HOW to practice it. By spending as much time as possible in the lesson playing together, I have found that my students have more fun playing in the lesson, learn more, and in turn practice more during the week! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo

For Beginning students, I use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and for the little more advanced Rubank's Elementary Method, Moyse For the beginning Debutant. For intermediate and advanced students will cover Moyse: De la Sonorite, Taffanel & Gaubert Daily Exercise Book, Trevor Wye's Practice Books for the Flute, Patricia George The Flute Scale Book, Reichert7 Exercises journaliers pour la flûte, Op.5. Among the other method book, we will work on your concert and competition pieces. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Comprehensive method individually structured for each student.  Books depending on level and age start with Standard of Excellence and are individually chosen to support the student. For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More