Saxophone Lessons in West Hartford, CT

Instruments: Saxophone

The most rewarding experiences have been watching my students develop a passion for their instrument and cultivate their own voice as a musician. By reinforcing fundamentals as well giving as a thorough, detailed explanation of the hardware and tendencies of the saxophone itself, each week I encourage the student to take the primary role in their progression. I make suggestions and offer the tools for their improvement, but ultimately it is up to them to see what works best for their personal growth. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe

For younger students, I typically assist and follow the method books students are working on. For example, they may use Standards of Excellence or Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements. These lesson books are crucial to teaching the fundamentals as a student is beginning to learn an instrument. I will break away from the books and introduce appropriate solo repertoire. I will also be mindful to the interests of the students to keep them engaged. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone

I first started teaching back while I was in high school, taking on several students over the summer as they prepared for the upcoming school year. In my lessons back then, I strove to foster a passion for music and the arts in my students by playing through fun music, learning some music theory, and encouraging them to perform in front of their peers. I like to emphasize the power of consistent and efficient practice, regardless of the student's age. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Recorder Piccolo

Personal success and happiness from playing music are the most important things for a student to achieve when taking lessons from me. I will work students hard in lessons, but treat them fairly and expect only what I know they are capable of achieving. I may differ slightly from other teachers in that when it comes to outside practice requirements, as I will teach to he amount of effort the student shows me. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Technique as well as theory are equally important. It is also important to have fun while learning. I like to use the Hal Leonard lesson books combined with excersises that I have created. I can also teach songs requested by students and explain and demonstrate how theory and technique apply to the tune. Improvising and playing along with other musicians in songs or jams is highly recomended. Understanding what each student wants to get out of the lesson is important. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Piccolo Oboe Keyboard

I started teaching when I was in college just a few private lessons here and there, which eventually landed my first job at a private school teaching clarinet. I have had students from 5th-9th grade primary at this studio with skill levels ranging from complete beginner to pre-college advanced. I have also taught many other instruments in smaller studios and can teach advanced students in any woodwind, and beginners on any other instrument in my profile. 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