Saxophone Lessons in Oxford, CT

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I typically will start them on a method book such as The Yamaha series, and start them on the basic pedagogy of the clarinet and saxophone,ie; putting the instrument together, putting the reed on the mouthpiece, setting the embouchure, etc. I will emphasize the importance of practicing; beginners, 5 times a week for 20 minutes, so they can succeed in learning their instrument. For Intermediate students, in Middle and High School for example, I will include the reportoire they are playing in their school performing groups, so they can excel in those. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

For Beginner students I have them start with the recorder. The instrument allows for a smooth segue to the flute being that the student can see their fingers and the recorder does not require the same air speed and lung capacity that the flute does so the student can pace themselves. For intermediate or advanced students I will go through orchestral excerpts, etudes, or technical studies with them. I follow the same model with my adult students, if they are just starting out I will recommend beginning on recorder to solidify fingerings however the mental and physical capacity of an adult versus a young child are very different. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been teaching clarinet and saxophone lessons for over 25 years, and continue to really enjoy helping students reach their full potential. I have introduced many beginners to both instruments, and have also taken on students who are in middle school or high school and never had a lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Saxophone Clarinet

I tend to stress fundamentals when it comes to what my philosophy of teaching is. I argue that the more time is spent on fundamentals, the better technique the student will have later on. The challenge comes into play with the fact the fundamentals can get tedious and boring! It is my duty to share creativity and fun ways of practicing the basics so my students can grow while enjoying what they are doing! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Depending upon what area/instrument of music I'm teaching, I use a number of different materials, including (but not limited to) Tonal Harmony (Kostka, et al.), Essential Dictionary of Music Notation, Accent on Achievement, Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, or Rock House Method (McCarthy). The skill level of the student also dictates what resources I'll use. In addition, I believe that the student should have control over his/her development as a musician, so I encourage my students to create a list of songs they wish to learn how to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Keyboard

I am fortunate to have met, associated and studied with, performed and recorded with some of the greatest musical minds of the innovators of traditional modern jazz, and also a few of the eternally legendary classical musicians. I have two degrees in music but more important is the gift that I have been given to know these amazing people in my life. I've received three National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Fellowships to pursue music in the direction of my choice. Read More