The Studio Remains Open Virtually Spring 2020.Lessons available via Facetime, Google Platforms,and Zoom.
Approach to Lessons
"Whether you study for personal enrichment, accomplishment in examinations or recitals, or more security in ensemble playing, it is important to enjoy the exploration of solid fundamentals.
The goal to create music at every stage of accomplishment and skill level is a worthwhile and vital pursuit!"
There is much fun and satisfaction to be had in studying music! If solid fundamentals are instilled, then your time spent having fun playing music goes up dramatically. Making a direct and secure connection between you and your instrument allows anything to be possible!
Areas of Daily Exploration: CLARINET, SAXOPHONE & FLUTE
POSTURE Having the correct posture for your instrument is not only paramount for your comfort, but also sets the conditions for you to fuel your instrument. Of course, that fuel comes from air, and focussing on BREATHING in the correct manner. This includes taking the air into the body in the correct quantity and pressure,and in releasing it into your instrument with the correct shape and pressure. This is facilitated by the EMBOUCHURE which is the shape of the facial muscles and tongue position within the mouth which is the last place the air is before it goes into creating music! Vowel sounds (AEIOU) in everyday speech are useful in setting this up. Coupled with this are the HAND and FINGER POSITIONS which executes the notes of the musical patterns. Study of these important elements through beautiful melodies and fun passages create the conditions for endless possibilities for music making! Self expression is so vital and important within our fast paced world.
RUDIMENTARY THEORY: Thorough study of key signatures, rhythmic structure and instrumental transposition. Coordinated with the Royal Conservatory curriculum.
HARMONY : Voice leading, melody writing and harmonization of 4 voices. Analysis uses real music examples. Coordinated with the Royal Conservatory curriculum.
HISTORY: A survey of repertoire and developments in music through the ages. Royal Conservatory curriculum.