Saxophone, Flute and Clarinet Lessons with Bill

Bill teaches saxophone, clarinet, and flute with nearly 20 years of teaching experience and a robust background in performance across various musical genres. His passion for mentoring stems from his own transformative experiences with great teachers, driving him to support his students in reaching their musical goals. Bill's teaching style is easy-going and enjoyable, focusing on fostering a positive and encouraging learning environment tailored to each student's needs and aspirations.

Locations Available
In Bill's home studio in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles
Online
This instructor is fully booked.
 Request lessons with
Bill
Thank you! We've received your request and will respond within the next 2 business days.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Meet the Instructor

What do you teach?

Saxophone, Clarinet and Flute. I perform on these instruments regularly and in a wide variety of musical situations and have taught these instruments as well for nearly 20 years!

What makes you want to share your skills and knowledge?

Finding and studying with great teachers has been enormously important in my musical education and growth. I aim to share my knowledge and experience with my students so as to encourage and mentor them just as mine have for me. I want to help my students reach their musical goals and become the best they can be and  along the way!

What is your experience in your craft and how are you evolving?

I have been performing in front of audiences for close to 25 years now. I picked up saxophone, clarient, and flute (studying privately) as early as elementary school and eventually went on to earn my Bachelors in Jazz Studies at the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College, and my Masters in Multiple Woodwind Performance from New Jersey City University. I lived in Brooklyn for 10+ years before moving to LA in 2020 and have performed at venues such as Smalls Jazz Club, Dizzy’s Club, Lincoln Center, Birdland, Blues Alley (DC), internationally in Canada and the Middle East. I have also performed in several Broadway productions including Elf, Holiday Inn, The Cher Show, Kinky Boots, and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical among others.

I hold myself to very high standards in any musical situation I'm in which requires constant practice and study on my end to stay sharp and ready for anything that comes my way. I also love making music - which includes practicing, too! There is always something to work on and get better which keeps me engaged and evolving as I grow as a musician as well as a human being.

What is your style of teaching?

Easy going and fun! I've had teachers in the past that were very harsh and hard on me. I find that approach can oftentimes turn students off and demotivate - as it did to me back in the day. Not everyone is trying to become professional and most of the time the goal is to play music for enjoyment. So, I do my best to make the learning process fun and encouraging.

How do you stay creatively inspired?

Life itself! My friends and colleagues. Listening to music. Playing music and performing as well as listening to other shows and concerts.

Testimonials

Bill's saxophone lessons have been a game-changer for me! As a complete beginner, I was nervous about starting, but Bill's easy-going and encouraging teaching style put me at ease right away. He has a knack for breaking down complex concepts into manageable pieces, and his extensive performance experience really shines through in his instruction. Thanks to Bill, I've gone from struggling with basic notes to confidently playing my favorite jazz tunes. His passion for music is contagious.

- Alex M.

I've been taking clarinet lessons with Bill for the past year, and the progress I've made is incredible. Bill's approach is both fun and rigorous - he knows when to push you and when to offer support. His background in multiple woodwinds has given me a broader understanding of music as a whole. What I appreciate most is how he tailors each lesson to my goals and interests. Whether we're working on classical pieces or exploring jazz improvisation, Bill always keeps the lessons engaging and relevant. He's not just a great musician, but a truly gifted teacher.

- Sam K.

As an adult returning to music after a long hiatus, I was apprehensive about taking up the flute again. Bill's patient and adaptable teaching approach has made all the difference. He seamlessly blends technique work with musicality, making even scale practice enjoyable. What impresses me most is Bill's ability to draw from his vast performance experience to offer practical tips and insights. He's reignited my passion for music and given me the confidence to perform in local community ensembles. Bill's lessons are the highlight of my week!

- Linda F.