Saxophone Lessons in Hartsville, PA

Instruments: Saxophone

A beautiful sound is the beginning of the creation of beautiful music! I find it most important to do work on a student's sound in the beginning stages of playing. To achieve the foundations of a good sound, playing pitches (beginning with A on alto) on the mouthpiece alone will develop the student's sound from the beginning as well as lay the foundations for a good embouchure. Doing this brings awareness to the students use of air by showing him/her the muscules used within and around the oral cavity in order to produce an optimal sound on the saxophone without developing bad habits that could be detrimental to a student's health. 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

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods vary greatly depending on the student's goals and experience. Through the first few years of study, an emphasis on the fundamentals of music and instrumental skills is required. This typically takes the form of a beginning method book. For students beyond this phase of study, advanced technique work takes the form of scale, chord, and interval studies. I couple these with the development of repertoire that fits the needs and goals of that student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Ukulele

As a teacher, I have taught private lessons, small and large jazz groups, concert bands, and in a classroom situation. I believe that being a part of diverse musical ensembles is essential to musical education. Many core concepts can be found in any style of music, and playing with as many people as you can find in many situations helps to make you the best possible musician you can be. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Keyboard

I began teaching in high school, where I taught lessons to the younger students as well as instructed my jazz band in improvisation lessons. I enjoyed problem solving with my students and figuring out the appropriate exercise or explanation to help them get over a particular hurdle. In college I taught at a music school, where I branched out from teaching saxophone to clarinet, flute, and piano as well. I also gained a lot of experience with very young students at this school. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I structure my lessons in the same way I structure my own personal practice. I usually start off with a few technical exercises, then cover some theory, and then work on repertoire. How much time goes in to each category will depend on the student. A beginner tends to need more time on technique, whereas someone who has an audition or recital coming up will spend most of their time on repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo

For students who are learning an instrument for band or marching band, I like to integrate their sheet music or method books into the lesson. I use method books with students who are new to their instrument. These materials are then supplemented with scales, solo repertoire, exercises, and technique work as appropriate for each student's interest and skill level. Lessons also consist of listening to previous assignments/repertoire from prior weeks and then offering feedback, answering any questions a student may have, and giving new assignments for the next lesson. Read More