Saxophone Lessons in Gaithersburg, MD

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

 Since my days in college as a music education and performance major I have been developing my method as a private lesson teacher and have built an approach that emphasizes technical and musical development alongside the study of ear training and improvisation. All of these factors are combined together to create a well rounded musician. You can expect to learn the fundamentals of your instrument that will help you perform any kind of music, and receive custom-made lessons designed to help you grow as a musician. Read More

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 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 Music

As mentioned above, my teaching methods are a mixture of discovery and practice that may or may not use formal books and methods. The young student may prefer the use of technology such as Ipads and laptops. Some others may prefer to learn through paper books and methods. I provide the student with the choice of using many electronic tools for improving his learning. Some students prefer a more relaxed, free way of learning. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Acoustic Guitar

I had an opportunity to start teaching early as a student leader in my high school music program and continuing into college. I've found that my students have a much higher level of success when they are encouraged to practice regularly at home. I use classical repertoire to build techniques across styles and modern music to keep students engaged. If they aren't enjoying themselves, I'm not doing something correctly. I encourage students to enter recitals and competitions as well as create their own original material. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Double Bass Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Music Keyboard

Observing and listening to a variety of different artist and styles of music pertaining to your respective instrument; helps you gain a great deal of insight of how the playing of your instrument can possibly look, as well as how the playing your instrument can possibly sound. Routine practice and the application of knowledge, as it pertains to proper posture, breathing techniques, embouchure formation, handling positions, and expression, helps you perform from your core and the depths of your soul. Read More