ELTHAM SAXOPHONE LESSONS
Saxophone Lessons in Eltham, SE9, Greenwich, London, UK
Based in central Eltham, SE9, South East London, I offer fun, friendly saxophone lessons which I'll tailor to your musical interests. We'll cover the essentials of music theory that you'll need to progress, whilst ensuring you have the opportunity to express yourself musically on the saxophone as quickly as possible.
Email [email protected] or call 07863 999 123 for more information or to book.
Catering for all abilities
• Complete beginners - those with no prior musical experience.
• Refreshers - students who played many years ago at school, who are keen to rediscover and develop their ability on the saxophone.
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About Me
Having played various instruments in my childhood, I fell in love with the saxophone over 20 years ago, and haven't looked back since!
I was a student of Harry Conn, himself taught by the great British alto player Harry Hayes, a contemporary and friend of Ronnie Scott and many other jazz luminaries. I consider myself very fortunate to have been taught by someone with first-hand experience of the pinnacle of the big band era. Harry was in his early 80s when we started lessons together - I still have very fond memories of his teaching and stories!
Musically, my primary focus is jazz, blues and soul, but I can accommodate any style you're interested in exploring. I've taught several students who play in church regularly, playing spiritual and Christian music. I'm a sucker for Christmas, so rest assured, we'll look at some classic Christmas songs if you have lessons during the festive season!
I have extensive live experience, having played a number of renowned London venues including The Jazz Cafe, The Blues Kitchen, The 100 Club, Pizza Express Jazz Club, plus major festivals around the UK including Green Man, Secret Garden Party, Manchester Jazz Festival, Shambala and more.
I offer lessons daytime or evening from my home studio, for more information please email [email protected] or call 07863 999 123.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have no prior musical experience. Can I still learn to play the saxophone?
Absolutely! I particularly enjoy teaching complete beginners. Music theory will be progressively introduced to you during lessons at a pace you find comfortable.
I played the saxophone many years ago at school, can you help me pick it back up?
Prior experience, no matter how old, is always an advantage. It's amazing how quickly your past experience will come back to you and flourish with some guidance.
I can't read music at all. Can I still learn to play saxophone?
Yes, we will cover music theory as part of the learning process. Don't be frightened! It will be introduced to you in a friendly and fun way.
Which saxophone should I start on - alto, tenor, soprano or baritone?
As a general rule, most people start on alto. However, if you have a preference for the sound of the tenor, soprano or baritone saxophones, there's no reason why you can't start on one of them. The skills are completely transferable - if you can play one type of saxophone, you can play another, subject to small changes in your embouchure (the position and use of the lips, tongue, and teeth on the mouthpiece).
What equipment do I need to start playing?
As an absolute minimum you will need: a saxophone; mouthpiece; reeds; a strap (a.k.a sling). If you have none of these, I can offer you an initial lesson using equipment I own.
Can you give me advice on buying a beginner-level saxophone?
Ideally budget £300 - £500 for a beginner-level saxophone. Gear4Music sell a perfectly reasonable alto saxophone for around £300 - £350. Second hand, the Yamaha YAS-23 or YAS-275 are fantastic instruments and will hold their value really well. If you shop around on ebay you can often find them at a competitive price. If budget is no object, any Yamaha, Selmer, Yanagisawa will be a great investment.
I own a saxophone but I'm not sure it's working. Can you help me?
I am more than happy to take a look at your sax during your first lesson. If it transpires it needs attention, we can continue the lesson on one of my collection of saxophones. I can recommend local repair technicians who'll be able to service your alto.
What mouthpiece should I use, as a beginner?
The Yamaha 4C mouthpiece is the definitive standard for beginners. If you have a generic, unbranded mouthpiece that came with your saxophone, I would strongly advise you to replace it with a 4C. They are readily available for purchase on Amazon or your local music shop.
What size reeds should a beginner use?
For complete beginners, I would recommend 1.5 strength reeds, Rico Royal or Vandoren brand. These are readily available on Amazon or at your local music shop.
What style of music do you teach?
I'm happy to focus on whatever your preference is. My usual teaching method focuses on classic jazz and blues material, but I can adapt this to suit your musical interests.
How long is each saxophone lesson?
I recommend one hour per lesson.
Where do you teach from?
I teach from my home studio in Eltham, London SE9. I'm based just off Eltham High Street. Free parking is available nearby. Eltham Station is the nearest train station; New Eltham station is a short bus ride away, and is served by several routes.
What days and times are you available for teaching saxophone?
By appointment, I am available for teaching from 11am - 8pm, weekdays and weekends. Email [email protected] or call 07863 999 123 for more information.
How much do you charge for saxophone lessons?
I charge £40 per 1-hour lesson. I accept cash and card payments.