I do virtual lessons with students all over the world using Google Meet and in person lessons in Silver Spring, Maryland. Students come to me from Bethesda, Rockville, Hyattesville and Washington D.C.

All ages! Saxophonists usually start as early as fourth grade, so long as they are ready for lessons and have large enough hands. For students between 5 and 8 I can design a Suzuki based program which would require parental involvement.

For online lessons you will need the best computer you have available, internet connected by a cable (rather than wi-fi,) headphones and if possible an external microphone. For saxophone equipment I’ve created a purchasing guide which you can find below.

I use the Rubank series as my core etude book because it remains the most comprehensive for teaching students everything they need to know to do well in band class. Think of etudes as exercises designed to develop technique. To supplement Rubank I use several other books which contain songs, pieces, and duets which is how we use technique in playing real music. I like to find music from all eras of classical music including renaissance music, orchestral music, and important solo works.

I also have a separate website which has pdfs of all the beginner etude books, as well as practice guides and audio files to help in the first year.

I am a classical saxophonist, which means I play the same kind of music an orchestral violinist plays. For those interested in jazz I can certainly teach beginners and I do teach jazz standards from The Real Book. If a student is ready to pursue a career or degree in jazz I would recommend one of my great colleagues to take over.

A very good standard is 30 minutes of practice every day with a lesson each week to achieve the best progress. More importantly is consistency, so if there isn’t enough time, then so long as you have a consistent schedule you will make progress. All progress is good progress!

My mission is to make sure I have an option that will work for all of my student’s needs. If you are concerned about price we will find option that works for you. Check out my Young Professional Development program and my Video Response program for some ideas on affordable options.

30 minutes: $40

45 minutes: $55

1 hour: $70

Study with one of my advanced students: Starting at $12.5

Video Response: $15 each

For advanced students, I want to make sure I not only teach them how to play, but how to teach. For select students who have completed the Rubank series, I hold short monthly sessions where I talk about teaching methods and student recruitment. Then for any students who come to me looking for affordable options, I refer them to my Young Professionals and provide guidance as they teach the beginning students. This is great for the older students as it gives them a head start in building their own studio before they even start college, and it provides affordable lessons to young students while still falling under my “teaching umbrella.” A win-win!

Video response lessons allow the student to get feedback any time it’s convenient for them for a low price. The student will record up to 15 minutes of a piece or etude they are working on, and I respond with my thoughts and suggestions. This is great for students preparing for solo and ensemble, or auditioning for all-county or all-state band.