About
- You will be studying with an advanced professional in the jazz world of NYC, well versed in a diverse array of music styles including classical, funk, R&B, Rock, etc.
- I'm dedicated to making lessons fun and engaging for students.
- I've been a working professional musician for more than 15 years and a professional music instructor for more than 10 years.
- I work regularly with Jazz at Lincoln Center, hold the lead saxophone chair with the Grammy-Winning Vince Giordano's Nighthawks, and perform with many of the world's most accomplished jazz musicians.
I love imparting musical knowledge and sparking inspiration in the student. I enjoy the process of helping students to discover the joy of making music!
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John B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Initially, we can talk about what you're looking to get out of the lessons, be it for yourself or your child, and what I can offer you in the way of guidance and instruction. I will format the lesson time to your needs! We can get together for a trial lesson with no obligation to continue and if you want to continue, we'll arrange more lessons from there.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BMUS degree from one of Canada's most prominent Jazz Studies programs, Capilano University with a major in saxophone performance. I've lived and worked in NYC for the past 6 years and perform with some of the best musicians in this area and abroad. I perform regularly in such prominent venues as Birdland, Mezzrow and Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons at my in-home studio, located in Sugar Hill, Harlem, cost $60 per hour. I consider this the most effective location for lessons because of easy access to my books, recordings, piano and other resources. It's a warm and inviting space.
I'm also available to come to you at whatever time is convenient. Prices vary depending on location, but range from $85+.
Online lessons are also an option and can be an effective means of acquiring knowledge and guidance for those outside the NYC area. Online lessons are $60 per hour.
If you desire a trial lesson, this costs $40 for 30 mins, either at my home or yours.
How did you get started teaching?
I come from a family of music teachers! Both my parents, as well as my Grandfather, all have had long careers as instructors and classroom teachers. I developed a love of imparting knowledge and inspiration from an early age and have maintained a private teaching practice for nearly 15 years. I also love working with jazz ensembles and getting musicians to work better as a group.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught young kids as young as 6 and people in the twilight of their lives in their 80s! Whether you're just getting started (no matter what age), looking to get to the next level, or reconnecting with music after a hiatus, we can develop your abilities to enjoy and gain fulfillment in making music.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
In Summer 2019 I enjoyed the opportunity to work closely with high-school level students for a 2-week Jazz Intensive at Harlem School of the Arts, where I'm woodwind and Jazz faculty. Getting to work with the same group of students every day and see them grow and develop quickly was truly rewarding and memorable.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The more music you can listen to, the more music you can find that you really LOVE, the better the lessons will go. This will help inform your teacher about what inspires you to play and practice.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about why you want to play music. What inspired you? What kind of music do you like? There are no wrong answers! Answering these questions for yourself will help me to format lessons for you so you come away feeling inspired to play and practice.