Saxophone Lessons in Washington, DC

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Harmonica Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For students who are beginners, I usually start with the Hal Leonard Essential Elements 2000 books. Not only are they a great source for fingering charts and basic instrument fundamentals, but they also offer great full band exercises in band balance and togetherness as well. Once the beginner student learns more fingerings and is able to read music from the book faster, I will give the student beginner etudes and studies to build their embouchure and fingering skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Djembe

My methods are largely based on learning the basics of theory and how to apply it intuitively in music (no matter what genre). I teach this at a patient pace, with teaching diatonic scales first, then transcending those scales into arpeggiated patterns. Learning this way not online teaches the mind, but also teaches the muscle memory of a person to remember the basics before moving to an intermediate level of theory. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

Some demand a more disciplined, focused method of teaching and learning. After assessing the student's profile, I can better suggest a track to work help the student to achieve his/her goals. My lessons are a balance of music theory, ear training, transcription, and free playing. Each student is unique in its learning. I help them to identify their needs to progress in their learning and give them the needed tools to keep growing and enjoying music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

Classes for beginners will focus on tone quality, articulation, rhythm, reading music, and playing in time. Students will learn breathing and fingering techniques as well as structured routines for practicing at home. Intermediate players will begin by mastering the 12 major scales and arpeggios in straight and swing patterns. Basic 12-bar blues structure will be introduced and students will learn to improvise using the blues and pentatonic scales. Students will begin to develop an appreciation for different styles of jazz through listening and ear training. 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: Saxophone Flute

A native Washingtonian, tenor saxophonist Brian graduated from the prestigious Duke Ellington School of The Arts, a product of master teacher and musician Davey Yarborough. He earned his BFA from The New School University in New York City, studying under Arnie Lawrence, Steve Neil, Charles Davis, Reggie Workman and Chico Hamilton. In 2008 Brian completed a Master of Music (MM) degree from Howard University where he was a graduate teaching assistant and student of saxophone virtuoso, Charlie Young. Among others, Brian has performed with Curtis Fuller, Gil Scott-Heron, Shirley Horn, Stanley Turrentine, Stanley Clarke, Mickey Roker, Butch Warren, Freddie Redd, Tom Abbs & Frequency Response and currently plays with Tomas Fujiwara and the Hookup. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Double Bass Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Music Keyboard

I'm a firm believer in transparent and respectful communication. I work diligently along side the parent(s)/guardian(s) and student(s) to develop a positive rapport with them. I will remind them that the process of learning an instrument, and engaging in performance is a collaborative effort; it can be a ton of fun; however, it still takes, a lot of patience, hard work and commitment. Each lesson is goal oriented and recorded. Read More