Wellington
Saxophone Lessons | Clarinet Lessons, Flute Lessons | Artist development, Aural Lessons, Ensemble Coaching, Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons, Online Lessons
Bio
I grew up in rural Mohua/Golden Bay, and have been playing saxophone and improvising since I was 10 years old. I studied formally at the New Zealand School of Music in Wellington for 4 ½ years, and returned to study in 2020 to work on the practice of improvisation, completing a Master of Music degree at the University of Auckland. I’ve taught all ages and abilities privately for the past 15 years, and since 2020 I have directed and tutored the jazz band at the Rātā Studios school of performing arts.
My work as a musician and composer has led to performance and education opportunities in the USA, Canada, South Korea, Germany, and Australia, and has been recognised by the Aotearoa Music Awards, APRA/AMCOS NZ and Creative New Zealand.
Teaching Info
BEGINNERS: I am an expert at providing the foundational skills of saxophone playing, helping students develop the proper technique, ear training, and theoretical knowledge to get the most out of the instrument. I love getting students started on sight reading and improvisation so they can play in bands at school or with their friends straight away!
INTERMEDIATE: I can help students switch from one saxophone (alto, tenor, baritone) to another: or from flute or clarinet to saxophone (or vice-versa). I can assist students with their school or community band repertoire and in NCEA performance, theory and composition assignments. I can introduce advancing students to more complex repertoire (especially in jazz and popular music styles), theory and/or improvisational tools.
ADVANCED: I can help advanced students prepare for jazz or contemporary music school auditions or recitals. At higher levels, I will help the student find their unique voice on the instrument and develop tools for ongoing musical exploration and discovery.
If you want to unlock the potential to appreciate and create music and find lifelong pathways towards learning, then get in touch!
Jake is a passionate and highly knowledgeable teacher with an impressive breadth of skills. When I began postgraduate jazz studies following a classical degree, I felt there were significant gaps in my understanding. I reached out to Jake for additional lessons in theory, ear training and composition and I’m so glad I did. He explains complex concepts in clear, accessible ways, always creating an encouraging and inspiring learning environment. Jake is also a fantastic saxophonist, and I highly recommend lessons with him to anyone looking to deepen their musical knowledge or performance skills.
