Matthew M
Instruments: Saxophone
Styles: Classical, Folk, Gospel, Musical Theater, Opera, Flamenco, Showtunes, Spirituals, New Age, Marching Band, Avant-garde
Matthew M
Instruments: Saxophone
Styles:
Classical, Folk, Gospel, Musical Theater, Opera, Flamenco, Showtunes, Spirituals, New Age, Marching Band, Avant-garde
Where I Teach:
In Your Home
Ages Taught: 10-80
ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:
DMA, University of Iowa, Saxophone Performance and Pedagogy
MM, Stephen F. Austin State University, Saxophone Performance and Pedagogy
BME, Southern Arkansas University, Music Education-Instrumental Track
Awards:
2018-Publication of Doctoral Thesis “A Performance Guide to Robert Lemay’s Ariana, Kaboul for Alto Saxophone and Film
2016-Tour with Iowa Saxophonists’ Workshop to Hong Kong and Chengdu, China (Soprano Saxophone)
2015-Semi-Finalist at North American Saxophone Alliance Biennial Competition (Chamber Division with Maize Saxophone Quartet)
2013-Woodwind Recitalist of the Year and featured soloist, Stephen F. Austin School of Music
2010-Featured soloist with Southern Arkansas University Symphonic Band (Claude T. Smith’s Fantasia for Alto Saxophone and Band)
Overview:
I am a recent graduate of the University of Iowa and am excited for the opportunity to reach out more and work with students of all ages. When I began learning the saxophone, I could never have imagined where music would take me. I have been fortunate enough to travel and perform abroad. In 2012, I performed a world premiere of Robert Lemay’s “Concetto Spaziale,” at the World Saxophone Congress in St. Andrews, Scotland. In 2015, I was able to travel to Strasbourg, France as a member of the Echo Rogue saxophone Quartet. In 2016, I joined the Iowa Saxophonists’ Workshop’s Saxophone Choir to Hong Kong and Chengdu, China.
EXPERIENCE
I was teaching clinics and masterclasses several semesters before my student teaching semester at Southern Arkansas University. I have extensive experience directing and teaching lessons and rehearsals ranging from private lessons to large ensemble rehearsals. I have taught music to students ranging from Pre-Kindergarten to Collegiate. During my Masters, my assistantship was teaching several sections of Music for Children. I believe this has given me a multifaceted approach and that I am able to adapt my teaching methods to work for each individual student.
METHODS USED
For beginning students who are children, I believe that Essential Elements and Standard of Excellence are more than sufficient resources. Focus will be given to proper embouchure, airstream, and tongue position as this will help the player avoid future, repetitive injuries. Intermediate students will work from Ferling’s 48 Famous Studies and Marcel Mule’s 18 Exercises after Solidifying scales is also essential for intermediate students. Appropriate literature that could be programmed for a recital will be introduced as appropriate. Advanced students will be introduced to Lacour’s 28 Studies as a bridge to more advanced recital literature.
LESSON STYLE
I’ve always admired saxophonists who seem completely at ease when they play. I’m inspired by musicians who can let go and enjoy the music as they produce it. I believe that this only comes from removing tension as we play. Knowing how to get the maximum result with minimal physical exertion allows the performer to focus on the music without worrying about potential mistakes. It is my goal with each of my students that no matter what music they choose to play, they are equipped with the necessary skills to produce the sounds they desire effortlessly so that they can truly enjoy the act of creating music.
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