Saxophone Lessons in Seattle, WA

Kenneth M

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Shakuhachi Conga

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
Off the grid self sufficient farmer.

What is your favorite style/genre of music to play and why?
Improvised jazz. With minimal form if one has enough training. you can achieve personal communication like none other form of music. It requires high levels of concentration and listening. Ultimately, music is about cooperation and making a greater whole than the individual player.

When did you decide to become a professional musician? Was it a gradual decision or was there a defining moment for you?
Once I had enough confidence to play in front of others, it was downhill from there. Sharing your creativity with others is very rewarding.

If you play more than one instrument, how did you decide to start playing the second? (Or 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc)!
In the woodwind world it is easy to go from one sax to another. I started on alto sax, then went on to tenor, soprano and baritone. I have also studied percussion of the world and have collected instruments from many countries and cultures.

What is your dream piece to perform and why?
My dream pieces include performing solo spontaneous composition on many different instruments. also. I love directing large ensembles to both play original work and collective improvisation that is conducted by me.

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
I generally establish a strong foundation in reading and music theory. The basic tools for playing any kind of music. I have a giant library of musical resources which compliments my many years of experience. I use the Rubank series for basic theory and reading. I use Lennie Niehaus many books for jazz they and technique.

What does a normal practice session look like for you?
Usually I do sight reading for maybe 10 minutes. Then work on whatever assignment I have given to the student. With more advanced students I will work on longer classical pieces and for the jazzers some improvisation. I also encourage students to compose their own music which I am happy to help them with.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
I have had numerous students who have starred in their school music programs. Many of them have gone to professional teaching and performing careers.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
My first instrument was flute. I had a love for Japanese flute music and jazz flute. Years later I began playing saxophone because of my passion jazz music especially improvisation.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I most happy when performing original, creative music.I am also very happy to be able to share my of music with others of all ages. I also find playing a very spiritual experience which allows me to find more joy in life.

When will I start to see results?
As long there is consistent practice, very quickly. Parents need to realize not to push their child about making progress too quickly. Healthy practice habits will do the trick.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
I did not take any lessons for over 10 years. My love of music(jazz in particular), pushed me to learn on my own. After starting to play professionally, I realized I needed a better foundation in music technique. I found my main teacher and studied with him every week for 4 years and never looked back.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
It is not how long but great consistency. Mire daily practice makes a much better player.

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
IF they are interested then they are ready. If they love music and like to listen to it that is usually a very good sign. Playing music helps develop otherparts of a young brain.

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