Halfway through the writing of this post, I learned that Jean-Marie Londeix had passed away at the age of ninety-two. I was deep into two resources which I regard as saxophone encyclopedias; trustworthy tomes that I find myself drawn back to again and again. The first is Londeix’s 2003 version of A Comprehensive Guide to […]
Tricks & Strategies
Pump Up The Jam
And now…drum roll please…some tips from my GREATEST STUDENTS! I’m talking la crème de la crème, a small pool of high achievers who consistently amazed me with their exceptional abilities. Their skills were so good, so consistently solid, I was left slightly in awe. Now, none of these students were practice maniacs. Far from it. […]
One Nation Under A Groove
Serious Teacher: “I’m afraid I can’t teach you next week; I’ll be cancelling your lesson.” Students Gasps: “What?” Very Serious Teacher: “I am a member of NASA and I’ll be going to a conference.” Confused and Surprised Student: “You are?” Very, Very Serious Teacher Turns To Lock Eyes on Student: “Yes. I belong to the […]
As Time Goes By
“What a waste of space.” Startled Student Stops Playing: “Are you talking about me?” Wise Teacher: “Grasshopper, it is never about YOU. It is about what you DO. Or what you are not doing, in this case. Slightly Defensive Student: “Not doing? Everything was correct: notes, rhythm, articulation, dynamics. I was playing correctly.” Teacher Nods […]