Alex D
Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, R&B, Gospel, Musical Theater, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Salsa, Showtunes, Reggae, Merengue, Latin Jazz, Swing, New Age, Samba, Bossa Nova, Soul, Marching Band, Avant-garde
Alex D
Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, R&B, Gospel, Musical Theater, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Salsa, Showtunes, Reggae, Merengue, Latin Jazz, Swing, New Age, Samba, Bossa Nova, Soul, Marching Band, Avant-garde
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
Bachelor Degree: William Paterson University
First Prize in Shenandoah Jazz Competition 2016
Winner of Berklee School of Music scholarship 2017
YoungArts Merit Winner 2018
Music has been a part of my life since before I can remember, and playing and teaching are the things that bring me the most joy in life. In high school, my love of music and jazz really began to take shape through taking private lessons and going out to see live music. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Studies from William Paterson University, where I learn and study under some of the best musicians in New York City. In addition, I perform all around New Jersey and New York City, as well as in the DC/Baltimore area where I grew up.
I began teaching lessons in high school, and have now been actively teaching privately for over 5 years. I mainly teach saxophone and clarinet, but I am also able to teach beginner piano and flute. I have had experience with students of all ages and levels, from beginner all the way to advanced. I always encourage my students to practice consistently, yet I understand if students are busy and have a lot going on. Moreover, I am open to teach and cater to my students' interests, whether it be classical, pop, rock, or jazz!
For young beginners on wind instruments, I really focus on getting a good sound out of the instrument first. Then, I have them learn simple songs by ear to strengthen their relationship with the instrument. At the same time, I will teach them how to read music if necessary. I like to use the Rubank or the Sound Innovations band method books to start with.
For my piano students, I go over posture and hand position first, in addition to the basics of the keyboard and fingerings for scales. However, once the basics are covered I leave it up to the student to pursue their own interests and direct their lessons.
My ultimate goal is to help students develop a love for playing and being around music. The last thing I want is a discouraged student or one that has become bored with music. Therefore, I will set realistic goals for my students so that they are not overwhelmed, but at the same time are constantly engaged and challenged by the material. I like to teach both by ear and by reading music, which accommodates different learning styles a student may have. Moreover, I will teach what the student is interested in, whether it be rock, jazz, classical, or pop.
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