Saxophone Lessons in Plandome, NY

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For beginning students I typically start with an elementary band method (Yamaha, Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, etc..). We focus on basic tone production, finger technique, note reading, and playing simple songs. Once the student is comfortable we begin to work out of a duet book. This gives the student a chance to "perform" with me at each lesson, tends to accelerate progress, and is fun! For advanced students we can focus on particular areas of interest.Whether jazz, classical or popular music is your focus, refining various aspects of tone and technique are always incorporated into the learning process. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Harmonica

I start with theory and technique for beginning trainees, combined with songs that utilize the modes and scales that the trainee will be learning, thus combining the academic with the practical. More specifically, I feel that learning scales and modes are of vital importance to any musician (no matter the skill level), as such a thing is necessary not only for improvisation (which is very important as my background is in jazz), but also for writing music, which I feel that every musician should do in addition to playing other people's music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

My first true teaching experience happened around the age of sixteen, which was by tutoring my siblings friends and preparing them for NYSSMA. I found this to be a truly enjoyable experience and realized that this was a passion that I wished to pursue in the future. From there, I enrolled in several music education courses when I attended Berklee College of Music. After learning from a variety of different music educators from various different backgrounds, I felt that I found my calling and knew that I was pursuing a career that I was passionate about. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello Saxophone Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard

During the first lesson, I have a short discussion with the student to see what their goals are. I also ask what about music interests them. I then ask them to perform anything of their choice to assess their ability level (if applicable). After that, I tell them what immediately needs to be addressed and how this will work with their longterm goal. Then, based on their progress, we set benchmark goals that are adjusted according to their pace. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo

Effectiveness is key when practicing so I have always encouraged multiple practice sessions a day but smaller amounts of time (15-20 minutes) so that you can really improve and see changes in your playing and musicality. This also helps keep the student from becoming frustrated and developing a negative relationship with the piece, practicing, or music in general. I would like to assist and encourage my students to enter contests, recitals, and NYSSMA as well as compose their own material so they can stay motivated and feel accomplished while challenging themselves. Read More