LESSON CONTENT

BEGINNER:

• Assembling the instrument – reed, mouthpiece, ligature, strap.
• Playing position.
• Embouchure.
• Reading musical notes and symbols.
• Fingering.
• Playing exercises, scales, and tunes in a progressive method book.
• Duets.

GOALS:

To develop a correct technical foundation for playing the instrument; To play a variety of musical pieces with good tone and rhythm, including exercises, duets, movie themes, Christmas tunes, etc. ; To improve performance in band class for school-age students.

INTERMEDIATE:

• Continuing guidance regarding playing position, embouchure, and fingering (correction of bad habits).
• Guidance regarding selection of equipment such as mouthpieces, reeds, ligatures, and instruments.
• Introduction of more complex musical pieces including etudes, solos, and jazz.
• Selection and preparation of pieces for Solo and Ensemble for school-age students.
• Introduction to jazz, blues, and rock improvisation.
• Use of jazz, blues, and rock “play along” cd’s and programs.
• Guidance regarding performance opportunities including bands, jam sessions, church and community programs, community colleges, etc.

GOAL:

To develop the skills necessary to begin playing with others in musical groups.

ADVANCED:

• Increased focus on interpretation and musical issues beyond basic technique such as vibrato, dynamics, ornaments, and variations in tempo.
• Practice methods which target specific aspects of instrumental performance such as tone and technique.
• Music theory and history.
• Assistance with transcribing solos and licks for jazz, blues, and rock students.
• Improvising through chord changes.

GOAL:

To develop the skills necessary to perform at the college and professional level.

Lesson rate: $35.00 per half hour.