Saxophone, flute, clarinet and recorder are all part of the woodwind family of instruments. In each instrument the sound is produced by vibrating a column of air blown through a tube. Many accomplished players have gained a mastery of all four instruments and such musicians are in high demand in a wide variety of musical settings.

Saxophone

The saxophone is commonly associated with Jazz music. Its rich and expressive tonal range has made it the quintessential Jazz solo instrument and saxophone players have been at the leading edge of Jazz improvisation throughout its history. The saxophone also plays an important role as part of the "brass" section of stage bands and other larger Jazz ensembles. While it is relatively rare in orchestral music it is becoming increasingly popular as a solo instrument and saxophone quartets perform classical music arrangements as well as popular music of all styles.

We offer beginner level lessons for students who are new to these instruments as well as more advanced instruction that complements and expands on high school music programs.

Beginner level students develop the skills of reading music, fingering and tone production (embouchure and breathing). Lesson books provide introductory repertoire of gradually increasing difficulty. We make use of a number of different books, depending on a student's skill level and interests. We normally take beginner students through the Yamaha Student books for saxophone, flute or clarinet. These books advance at a good pace and keep students challenged and engaged. Theoretical concepts are introduced step by step as the repertoire increases in sophistication.

As students progress they are introduced to more advanced repertoire and technical exercises that prepare them for both solo and ensemble playing. Students may opt to participate in the Royal Conservatory Exam Program in each instrument. Intermediate and advanced students have the opportunity to explore and become proficient in classical repertoire, jazz improvisation and popular music styles.

Many of our students are already receiving instruction in high school music and band programs. We will often work with the same repertoire that students are playing at school providing more in-depth attention to technique and style. We help our students to excel in their school music programs and to gain the greatest proficiency in their chosen instrument.

Students normally begin lessons around the age of eight or nine years when their physical size is suitable for instruction in the woodwind instruments. For students who are not quite ready for lessons in saxophone, flute or clarinet we would recommend recorder lessons as an excellent preparation for other wind instruments. Piano lessons are also highly recommended for young students in preparation for instruction in any other musical instrument.

It is necessary for students to have the use of a suitable instrument for practicing at home and the instrument needs to be brought to each lesson. Saxophones, flutes and clarinets all come in a wide variety of qualities and price ranges. Instruments are available for rent and often rent-to-buy arrangements can be made with a local supplier. It is worthwhile to consider renting initially, perhaps planning to buy an instrument later on. Yamaha and Jupiter are good names to consider for entry level saxophones. If you are planning to buy you should expect to pay around $600.00 for a suitable instrument. For flutes, Selmer, Artley and Yamaha make good instruments around the $400.00 range. For clarinets, consider Yamaha or Buffet and expect to pay around $500.00 for an instrument suitable for beginners.