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BFA, The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, Saxophone Performance
2017 - Selected to perform at Bern International Jazz Festival representing The New School
2014 - New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music Merit Scholarship
2014 - Louis Armstrong Award
I'm a driven instructor who loves nothing more than seeing his students play things they never thought possible. Originally from Montana, I moved to New York City five years ago to pursue a degree in jazz performance at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. Since graduation, I have kept a busy teaching schedule as well as performing both locally and throughout the country. During my time in NYC I have also been fortunate enough to perform with some of my musical heroes including Adam Nussbaum, Doug Weiss, and Matt Wilson.
I began teaching about in high school about 8 years ago, and have loved watching my students surpass their goals and develop their own passion for music. For me, inspiring students to develop productive practice habits and routines is one of the most essential beginning steps, especially for younger students. My students have ranged from young first time players, to older players who are serious about getting their playing to the next level. Whether you're looking to strengthen your technique, or expand your improvisational vocabulary, I would love to work with you and get your playing to the level you desire!
For younger and beginning students, I typically start with technique exercises that focus on producing a strong and clean sound on the instrument, and ensure that the base technique is solidified. We will then work through various technique and work books until the student is at a level where they can choose the music that interests them most. For adults and more advanced students, I like to gear the lessons toward what they want to learn, and provide them with the tools they need to reach their goals.
The most important and rewarding aspect of teaching for me is ensuring that my students enjoy playing their instrument and develop a strong passion for their craft. Each student will need to work at their own pace, as everyone learns in a different way. Therefore, I encourage all of my students to set realistic goals and outline a practice routine and regiment that will not only allow them to reach their goals, but exceed them. I also believe it is of the utmost importance to provide the student with material that they enjoy playing, in addition to technique building exercises.