Saxophone & Clarinet
1:1 Lessons Wahroonga Studio and Online
Learning an instrument is an art form of patience, perseverance, humility and joy.
I am here to help you develop the skills required to create technical facility on your instrument, increase productivity in your practice and to fully express yourself in musical performance.
If you are commitment to a regular practice, if you are curious to discover what your own learning journey can uncover, if you are willing to make mistakes, receive feedback and figure out a more effective way - I am here for you.
Some thoughts…
What levels do you teach?
From beginners to advanced musicians.
How long should my lesson be?
Beginners to early intermediate will benefit from the 30minute lessons. Advancing students, particularly with an exam and/or performance goal will benefit from the 50minute lessons. Note, online lessons are not recommended for absolute beginners.
Do you help prepare for exams?
We will design our own program of development and if you have a particular performance goal you are committed to achieving, I can provide the support and guidance. Goals may include HSC, AMEB, ABRSM, TRINITY, University Audition, Ensemble Audition, Solo Recital, Eisteddfods …
Can I have an occasional lesson/s to support a particular upcoming performance?
Yes. We will discuss your goals when we first meet and design the lesson/s around your needs.
What if I only want support on my school band music with regular lessons each week?
By exploring technique and a variety of repertoire you will deepen your skill base to allow interacting with your band music, especially new pieces, with greater ease. We will incorporate band music within the lesson program but not as an exclusive lesson program.
Will I receive lesson notes?
Yes. Access to online notes from the lesson, upload of any materials, links and recordings to support ongoing development are created after the conclusion of the 30/50minute lesson time and will be available within 24hrs.
What platforms do you use?
Online lessons are conducted via Zoom. All lesson material is shared via Google Drive.
What do I bring to the lesson?
Your instrument and all accessories (including spare reeds), any music currently being worked on. If this is your first lesson (but not a complete beginner), bring music you are currently playing/have recently played.
What should I have at home?
An adjustable music stand, one that can be raised to near your full standing height. A metronome, a tuner, a recording device; all can be online or free apps on your phone, recommendations can be given. Access to the online lesson notes and a place to write your own notes.
Where should I practice?
A quiet place away from distractions of other household members and/or sounds.
Do I need to buy my own music?
Yes. missjostudios has a significant resource library available but students will be required to purchase recommended music; particularly if preparing for a performance and/or exam.
Why are you recommending a change in reed/instrument/accessory?
Our needs change as we develop skills on our instrument. Recommendations will only be made to support ongoing success in quality and ease of sound production and interaction with the instrument.
I need a new instrument or accessory, can you help?
Yes. For long term students I will organise to meet at specialist stores to support. Together with the expert staff at the specialist stores we will discuss your ongoing needs and budget and then select brands/models to test and offer feedback on what we hear. The final choice is ultimately yours.
Are you ready?
a bit about jo…
MMus (Perf), BMus Hons (Perf), LMusA, AMusA.
Classical trained musician studying at WAAPA, WA and Sydney Conservatorium of Music, NSW. Supporting students for over 25 years with primary, secondary, tertiary and adult musician experience . Most notably continuing at Knox Grammar School since 2007 in 1:1 lessons and chamber ensembles then expanding into the role of Woodwind Coordinator from 2014. I have experience as an AMEB examiner and support the committee of the Clarinet and Saxophone Association of NSW. A special interest in how we interact with our environment and instrument to facilitate greater ease in playing led to study of Alexander Technique: BodyMinded, in 2017 and becoming a Diploma level Pilates instructor in 2018. Interest in Performance Psychology through courses such as with The Bullet Proof Musician and Performance Under Pressure began in 2020.