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Bachelor Degree: Suffolk College
Professional Saxophone Player - 25 years
Suffolk College Band
Newfield High School Jazz Band
I am an experienced, dedicated saxophone/piano teacher who is eager to work with students at all skill levels. I have over 50 years of playing or teaching music and I look forward to sharing the knowledge that I have gained over the years with my students. My professional saxophone experience involved traveling to much of the northeastern part of the country, playing gigs focusing on blues, jazz, soul, rock & R&B. As a teacher, I gear my lessons towards what type of music my students are passionate about, no matter the genre.
My music experience dates back to playing in the Jazz band in grade school, where I learned the foundational knowledge all music students should have. At Suffolk College, I played saxophone, which lead to starting a r&b band with some of my fellow musicians on campus. Traveling through the northeast, we played weddings, corporate functions, and clubs. The experience I gained throughout this time is invaluable and really brought my skill to the next level. The research necessary to keep up with the professional sound more accomplish bands maintain forced me to really study and harness my craft. I look forward to doing this same effort with willing and passionate students!
For beginning students I focus on the fundamentals of playing a saxophone: Setting up your instrument, reading music, breath training, and embouchure. Once the student progresses to a bit higher level, we start with rudimentary songs that allow the student to work on playing full songs. For more musically experienced students new to saxophone, I still start with the same foundational training and set up, but have a more rapid approach to having them play full songs in genre's they enjoy. Sharing the knowledge I have gained over the years, helping students reach their musical goals remains my goal.
My teaching style is dynamic, depending on my student's skill level. The progress of a student's musical skill is dependent on their willingness to practice and focus on improvement discussed during our lessons. Each student of course is on their own path and pace. Positive reinforcement and setting goals are both important to a student's development. Understanding what the student wants to get out of their music lessons is a vital aspect when it comes to their eagerness and enjoyment to practice and progress.
Mr. Russell R is an excellent musician. We love how he teaches music to our son. He is extremely dependable, and he easily earns the respect and bonding of our children. His personal skills are exceptional, and he has been very accommodating to our personal schedule, and needs. We appreciate very much how he is always attentive to improve our sons’ musical skills, his feedback has been very positive, and you are able to see our kids progress quickly with his assistance. I could openly recommend Mr. Russell R to any employer or parent looking for a great and dependable teacher. You may contact me should you have any questions. Thank you.