How modern technology transformed synthetic reeds and why I now recommend them to my students

For most of my career, like many saxophonists, I was a cane reed player. I grew up going through boxes of reeds, searching for “the…

When we hear the name “saxophone,” most of us think of jazz clubs, soulful solos, and iconic figures like John Coltrane or Charlie Parker. But behind this beloved instrument lies the extraordinary—and often overlooked—story of its inventor: Adolphe Sax.
Born…

In today’s fast-paced and academically demanding world, high school students face increasing pressure to excel. While sports and technology often take center stage, learning a musical instrument—like the saxophone—offers profound benefits that are too often overlooked. Science shows that music…

Introduction
Children with ADD often face challenges with focus, impulse control, and maintaining consistent effort. But music—especially learning an instrument like the saxophone—can offer them a unique path forward. Through sound, breath, and creativity, music provides structure, expression, and a…

I began teaching adult students more than 30 years ago through private lessons. From the start, I realized that teaching adults requires a different set of skills and approaches compared to teaching children. Adult students come with their own unique…

Learning to Play a Musical Instrument in Middle School

As a music teacher, I’ve had the privilege of instructing students as young as three and as old as ninety-six. Among these age groups, teaching students between nine and fourteen has…

Why Kids Quit Music Lessons

Many children express enthusiasm for learning to play a musical instrument as early as age 6 or 7. However, about 50% of students drop out of music lessons and other musical activities by the time…