Saxophone Lessons in Mount Vernon, VA

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 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 Clarinet

I have a deep love for music because of the powerful role it has played in my life. It has healed me, strengthened me, and given me a sense of purpose. I want to pass that along to my students. It is the greatest joy to see my students progress past what they thought they were capable of. My goal with teaching is to take my students on a journey that goes beyond learning the fundamentals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Bass Guitar Organ Music Keyboard

I have a vibrant personality and I love teaching, especially when it comes to helping students grasp things where traditional teaching methods have proved to be intimidating or unaccommodating. I have performed in a variety of ensembles and have produced multiple volumes of my own compositions. My musical background is rooted in jazz, funk, soul, and latin music, and my teaching method will tend to emphasize "grooves," with a special eye toward harmony, syncopation, comping, and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have my students spend a great deal of time on rhythmic accuracy, scales, and sight-reading. I create my own lesson plans and provide students with a variety of instructional materials. Students begin each lesson with rhythmic drills and scales with gradual increases in difficulty levels. I prefer using Rubank method books and the Klose Complete Method for the clarinet. Students are always free to bring in music from their school band program and/or solos and etudes of their choice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience started after college, teaching a family friend bass guitar. From there I realized I could just as well teach guitar, piano, and saxophone as well. I find it rewarding to watch people grow and learn skills they can use the rest of their life, enriching their life with the expression of music. From taking private lessons of my own on saxophone and guitar throughout high school and college, I've learned that consistency of practice is key! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

I have a lot of experience with curriculum development. My favorite books to teach from include Accent on Achievement, Alfred's Piano Book series and Essential Elements. However I can teach without a book on any instruments and compose assignments as I have done in the past. Even if I am teaching using a book, I usually do a lot of ear training and music theory based assignments that are not found in these books. Read More