Saxophone Lessons in Lorton, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet French Horn Oboe Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students I start with basics: learning how to hold the instrument, put it together, etc. Then when that is solid we learn a few notes. From there we go to the Rubank books. At the same time, we start reading music that I find appropriate for them. For adults, it depends on what they want to learn. Popular songs or songs they request. But I also push for technical mastery of the instrument so I push for knowledge of scales and then keep pushing with more challenging/fun pieces. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

All lessons are tailored to each students ability level, with the goal of creating specific, achievable objectives to foster a successful environment. Students tend to enjoy working on what they are passionate about, so I am interested in finding where a students musical passion exists, and incorporating it into lesson plans and assignments. I do not tolerate shortcuts, but rely on positive reinforcement to encourage students to develop their skills thoroughly. 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: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Acoustic Guitar

First I like to get a snap shot of the student's goals and sources of inspiration, once I figure that out I can tailor my instruction around their wants and needs. I see myself as an accountability partner with my students and so I help my students set goals for their progress, celebrate their successes, and evaluate the shortfalls. I encourage loved ones to be a supportive and active part of the process as that encouragement can fuel a student's desire to grow. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo Latin Percussion

For beginning students I like to start with the same book I learned; Essential elements by Hal Leonard. This book comes with a play along that serves as stimuli to the young ear. A compliment and more flute oriented book is Flute 101-103 Which ranges from beginners to medium-advanced students. During this period I will add repertoire appropriate to the level of the student and according to national standards like NISMA and All State. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

It is very important to me for students to have fun in lessons. That's my number one priority! Students who are enjoying playing their instrument are more likely to stick with it. My passion for music shines through in private lessons when I focus all of my energy on the one student. Watching the student grow and succeed is one of the greatest things about teaching. I am able to figure out what a student likes very quickly and use that to connect with them. Read More