MMus Performance (Jazz Saxophone)
BA(Hons) Jazz Studies
CRB Fully Checked
References are available upon request

Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I mostly teach saxophone. I am happy to teach a range of genres and idioms - mostly Jazz or Classical, but also Rock, Pop and Blues. I also teach Piano, Oboe, Clarinet and Jazz Theory/Composition to all ages and ability levels.

Tell me about your qualifications.
I have a 1st Class BA(Hons) in Jazz Studies from Leeds College of Music, majoring in both performance and composition. I am currently studying for the degree of Master of Music (MMus) in Jazz Performance at Trinity College of Music in Greenwich. Before attending music college for my undergraduate studies, I achieved Grade 8 in Oboe and Piano.

What kind of experience do you have?
I initially started playing piano at the age of 5, followed soon after by the oboe at 7. At 8, I joined the Cathedral Choir in my city, and was later made Head Chorister. I was also principal oboe in the city's Youth Orchestra. At 18, I started my study of the saxophone, which quickly became my principal instrument before applying to study jazz at music college. I also play clarinet, guitar and flute. Since graduating I have given performances in a huge range of venues and situations across the country, including national television and radio.

I have taught privately for a number of years, teaching both individuals and groups, including as part of the Wider Opportunities programme in Central Manchester. I have prepared students for ABRSM exams, GCSE assessments, various auditions and public performances.

How much do you charge?
I currently charge a promotional rate of £25 per hour for all enquiries made through The Tutor Pages. I charge the same fee for all instrument/lesson types. This fee includes reasonable travel expenses, which can be discussed or clarified after further enquiries have been made.

Where do you teach?
I am based in South-West London, including Kensington, Putney, Richmond, Wimbledon and Westminster, but am willing to travel to most locations in Greater London. I am equally willing to teach from my own home, or travel to students houses to teach. Please do get in touch to discuss this further.

When are you available?
I am available throughout the year, including school holidays. I am flexible throughout the working week and weekends, and am happy to commit to regular lesson times, or flexible hours. Please don't hesitate to contact me to discuss specifics.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I have experience of teaching all ages and ability levels. I design fluid lesson plans, and tailor my lessons to suit the individual needs of each student. Enthusiastic students are always welcome, no matter what their age or ability.

Which qualifications do you prepare your students for?
I quite happy to prepare students for any type of qualification, be it ABRSM/Trinity Guildhall graded exams, GCSE or A-Level performances or auditions for music colleges.

I believe that students of music should never feel pressured into taking graded exams, as it is not the right solution for everybody. I fully endorse the exam system; for some students it provides an excellent yardstick to measure their progress, however for others it can be a hindrance. Music lessons should always build confidence, develop musicality, and ultimately result in the creation of beautiful music.

Do you have an up-to-date CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) disclosure certificate?
Yes.

Where and with whom did you train?
I trained at Leeds College of Music for my undergraduate qualifications, and Trinity College of Music for my MMus. I have studied with a great number of today's leading performance artists and jazz musicians. These include;

Martin Speake
Mornington Lockett
Julian Siegel
Mark Lockheart
Dave O' Higgins

Do you have a personal message for students?
Music should always be fun, whether you are auditioning for a place at a music college, or just playing in your living room! Relax, perform and enjoy yourself!

Articles

Nerves and Tension in Performance
Subject: Saxophone
Tags: building confidence, effective performance, overcoming anxiety, saxophone, tension in performance
Created: 01/07/2011

Effective Practice
Subject: Saxophone
Tags: benefits of practice, efficient practicing, practice regime, practise techniques, saxophone
Created: 08/06/2011

Files

	File	Size	Upload Date
	Performing at The Met Theatre in Bury	33.3KB	30/06/2011
	Tom Harrison	193.64KB	30/06/2011