Saxophone Lessons in Olney, MD

An experienced teacher who's an expert saxophonist can help you reach your goals. I bring an exhaustive knowledge of the saxophone and saxophone teaching practice to lessons. And I have experience teaching students of all ages and backgrounds. I'll help you get farther, faster on your saxophone journey.

Damien G. received his Bachelor’s degree in Clarinet Performance from Loyola University New Orleans, his Master’s Degree from the University of North Texas, and is currently working on his DMA at the University of North Texas. As an undergrad at Loyola University, Damien toured as a clarinet soloist with the Loyola Chamber Orchestra in Yugoslavia, Hungary, and Vienna. He has been a member of the UNT Wind Symphony , under Eugene Corporan, and the UNT Orchestra, led by Anshel Brusilow. More recently, he has performed at two UNT concerto concerts as a soloist with the UNT chamber orchestra. Damien also has performed with the Contemporary Theater of Dallas along with other freelance activities in the DFW area. His teachers include: Mr. A. Crisanti,Dr. James Gillespie, Dr. John Scott, Steve Cohen, Daryl Coad, and John Reeks.

With over 20 years as a professional saxophonist and 15 years teaching experience I know the demands of a performing musician professionally and academically. I teach students how to produce a good tone quality with characteristic vibrato. I can teach students to become good at reading music. Students who are interested in jazz or pop styles of music will be taught improvisation techniques and how to play by ear.

While my degrees are in clarinet, I am also an accomplished saxophonist who has performed in ensembles throughout Colorado and Western Massachusetts, including jazz ensembles, musicals, and a professional saxophone quartet with performances at a regional North American Saxophone Alliance (NASA) Conference. I have experience ranging from helping students just learning their instrument all the way to students looking at All State or college auditions. My goal is to tailor lessons to meet each student's individual needs and interests, while still reinforcing good technique. Lessons will usually consist of doing a mix of different things such as: long tones, scales, etudes to improve technique and musicality, solos, duets, and Disney or jazz/pop tunes.

I have many unique experiences as a woodwind player and have a wide range of skills that I’m happy to pass onto my students! In particular, I believe that in order to perform it’s necessary to fully understand your instrument and I do not accept “pseudo-explanations” of what proper technique is or should be. I can help you learn anything you want about the saxophone by presenting information in a personal and easily digestible way!

Interested in Saxophone Lessons, Music Theory & Composition (learning to read, write, and understand Music), Music Technology, Beginner Percussion/Drum Lessons, or personalized Drum Major/Marching Band Leadership Training? You've come to the right place!

Receive unique and fun Music lessons from a former HBCU Drum Major, Collegiate-trained Saxophonist, NAMM contest winning Music Educator & Music Ensemble Director, and former Interim Artistic Administrator of The Chicago Jazz Ensemble!

Students of all ages welcome! I look forward to hearing from you and finding out how I can best help you meet your goals!