Saxophone Lessons in Boston, MA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

I've played piano and saxophone for over 25 years and studied jazz composition at Berklee College of Music. The teachers that I was fortunate enough to learn from as I grew up were so important in my musical development, and they kept me interested in continuing with music! I understand just how important specialized attention to talents and interests are in beginners and all other levels. So my focus is always trying to make sure my students are enjoying their instruments every step of the way, while providing the structure and expert assistance that will bring the progress that students need to experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone

For beginning students on piano, I typically start with Piano Adventures. For beginning students on saxophone, I typically start with fundamentals like Sound production with long tones, embouchure exercises, A Tune A Day by C. Paul Herfurth. Once the student as progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce repertoire across several genre of music as well 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

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I start of my lessons by asking how much the student practiced for the week. Then I ask them if there was anything that was confusing for them so we can work on that first. I let the student pick what they want to start with first and then I will pick the next exercise. I finish with giving them a homework assignment and making sure they understand what to practice for next week. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

From then on, we can start on method books--I generally use either Essential Elements or Standard of Excellence--and some extra short pieces I compose for them based on their needs. I also spend time working on ear training and overtone control as soon a I think a student is ready. The sooner they learn these elements, the easier it will be for them to learn more. For more advanced students, I like basing lessons around repertoire, but that repertoire can vary a great deal based on their needs. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

The most rewarding thing about teaching is seeing my students cultivate their love for music, and self-confidence in their sound! In order to best achieve this, the most fundamental understanding is that each student learns and progresses at his or her own pace! With this in mind, I believe the best way to achieve results is to set realistic goals for each lesson - goals that utilize skills practiced in the lesson, yet set the stage for the next lesson are most ideal. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For me, I always like to do a mix of what is fundamentally good to do as well as do what the students want. You will find in younger kids that it is very easy for them to lose motivation. Something I've learned through teaching elementary is that students love being given autonomy in their education, and it motivates them to continue. For beginning students, I like to start on Essential elements. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginners, I put a strong emphasis on the fundamentals of music, such as getting to know the staff, time signatures, how to construct a major scale, etc. I will also introduce the student to intervals, which are the basic building blocks of western music. The student will also begin basic ear training, by learning to recognize certain intervals by ear, and also learning to sing and play on their instrument when given a reference pitch. Read More