I started playing music when I was I ten. I was awarded a partial scholarship to the University of Idaho's Lionel Hampton School of Music where I majored in Classical Saxophone Performance, where I won the Outstanding Jazz Soloist award (2004). I then received a partial scholarship to the Berklee College of Music and studied there with a principal instrument of saxophone, and graduated with a degree in Contemporary Writing and Production in 2009. I've spent the last ten years performing...
I started playing music when I was I ten. I was awarded a partial scholarship to the University of Idaho's Lionel Hampton School of Music where I majored in Classical Saxophone Performance, where I won the Outstanding Jazz Soloist award (2004). I then received a partial scholarship to the Berklee College of Music and studied there with a principal instrument of saxophone, and graduated with a degree in Contemporary Writing and Production in 2009. I've spent the last ten years performing full-time, on cruise ships (Carnival, Princess, Holland-America, Celebrity, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, The World), land tours (iLa Mawana national tour), theatre productions (Los Angeles’ For The Record: The Brat Pack, Broadway's After Midnight), and independent bands (Samsaya Trio, Vivian Clement Quartet). My performing experience has taken me to 70 countries and all seven continents. While I studied saxophone as my primary instrument, I also play flute, clarinet, harmonica and bass guitar at a professional level.
I've self-recorded and self- produced multiple albums. I've also been featured as an arranger in many settings. I have three of my own shows (A Public Saxophone and other Bedtime Stories, Just Sax, and CBSAXLIVE). I have also worked with Nathan Chester (The Voice Finalist 2024) and had my shows featured in 54 Below in New York City.
I think it's very important from the beginning to find your individual voice on your instrument. Technique is important, but it will be taught simultaneously with artistic voice. One of the great things about music is being to express your version of yourself on your instrument. What's the point in learning scales if you can't play the song you want to play? From day one, we will focus on all aspects of learning, and of music, at the same time. I'm super patient and I love to teach, and I'll cater my teaching style to the individual student. I look forward to teaching you!
Looking forward to hearing from you!