Devon M
Instruments: Saxophone
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop
Devon M
Instruments: Saxophone
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 5-80
MM, Bowling Green State University, Saxophone Performance
BM, University of Calgary, Saxophone Performance
Graduate Assistant at Bowling Green State University (2011)
Marilyn Perkins Award for Achievement in the Arts, Calgary Foundation (2011)
Orchestral debut with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (2011)
XL103 Newcap Award in Music, University of Calgary (2009-2011)
F. M. McLeod Prize, University of Calgary (2009)
Rideau Music Prize, Rideau Music (2008)
As an educator I aim to introduce my students to skills that may be applied to life outside the practice room. I teach them to communicate, build confidence, and most importantly, develop patience. In 2013 I graduated from Bowling Green State University with a master's degree in saxophone performance. Prior to this, in 2011, I graduated from the University of Calgary with a bachelor's degree in the same field. I've had the opportunity to perform worldwide with various musical groups, and made my orchestral debut in March of 2011 with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
I have been teaching students of varying age levels for the last decade. I believe it is essential to remember not all students will learn similar material in an idential manner. I believe it is my job to make sure students are continually enjoying themselves, and that they achieve their goals, whether that is to just have fun or to be accepted into a college music program. I have taught classical, jazz, and contemporary music. Within these lessons, I have also taught music theory, history, and ear training, all elements I believe are essential to become a successful musician. I am passionate about teaching because I love music, I love to meet new students, and I love a challenge.
During a lesson, I will cover comparable material with all students. This includes elements such as air support, sound production, tone, technique, etude practice, and repertoire. I will, however, tailor this material to suit the unique learning method of each student.
I encourage my students to conduct research outside of their lessons, in order for them to learn as much as possible about the history of their instrument, as well as the genre and style in which they are performing. I aid them with this research by providing introductory resources, eventually leading them towards general music databases. I also encourage students to listen to recordings of many different styles and genres in order to hear elements that cannot always be explained with words. I either provide them with the material or teach them to locate quality recordings. By providing my students with these resources, I find that they develop an intrinsic love of music that will last throughout their lifetime.
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