Peter A. TakeLessons Instructor music, saxophone, jazz improvisation San Diego, CA

 I am a a San Diego-based saxophonist and educator. Originally from Sacramento, CA, I performed with my award-winning high school jazz band at the world-famous Monterey Jazz Festival from 1999 - 2001 and Jazz at Lincoln Center's "Essentially Ellington" Jazz Festival in New York City in 2001. I was selected for the International Association of Jazz Education "Community College All-Star Jazz Band" in 2003 and 2004. I was also selected for the Disney All-America College Band in 2004.  In May of 2008, I graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Music degree.  I am continuing my studies at the graduate level, working towards a Master's degree in Music Performance also at San Diego State University.

As a teacher, I tailor my lessons to fit each student's specific goals.  Whether they are headed for a career in music or are looking to develop a hobby, I strive to make our time together fun and informative.  Each of my lessons include instruction in saxophone fundamentals as well as help with material that interests them.  Above all, I want my students to walk away from our lessons with a love for music that will last their entire lives.

I am an encouraging and patient teacher who believes that every student progresses at his or her own pace.

Though each student has different goals and plays at a different level, all my students receive instruction in tone production, technique, ear training, and music theory. 

I specialize in jazz, and feel that saxophonists should be familiar with this genre of music.  Within the style, there are many different topics I cover depending on the student's interest.

Curriculum is dependent on each student's ability and goals, but there is one book that I use with everyone: The Universal Saxophone Method.  This is widely considered to be one of the best resources for saxophonists in terms of development, regardless of style or ability. 

Other books I find useful include: Rubank Saxophone Method Books, Top Tones for Saxophone (Sigurd Rascher), Jazz Conception (Lennie Neihaus), The Jamey Aebersold Play-a-Long Series (Jamey Aebersold), The Real Book, 6th Edition.

The best resources are recordings of great saxophonists.  Since music is a hearing art, the importance of listening cannot be overstated!  At the first lesson, I give each student a list of saxophonists to check out.

jazz, popular styles

music, saxophone, jazz improvisation