Piano with James F.

Mr. James Falcon Director of Bands at International Leadership of Texas Grand Prairie K-8, graduate of Richardson High School, holds a BM in Jazz studies from the University of North Texas, and is a state-certified music teacher in Texas. James began his professional performance career in 1990 with Dallas' own blues great Al 'TNT' Braggs, and continues to perform in various local groups. As a professional player, he has experienced both national and international tours while playing with a multitude of outstanding performers. James has 18 years experience as a music educator in public schools including: elementary, middle and high school band and choir, as well as adjunct saxophone at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction Colorado. As a director, James inspires a strong foundation of musicianship, ensuring meaningful musical experiences for his students both in rehearsal, and in performance. Additionally, his efficient and flexible teaching style ensures for his students musical enjoyment that comes with an invaluable sense of personal achievement, as they learn how to overcome the many challenges that all musicians must tackle in the pursuit of excellence. *** Lesson Details *** Lessons are planned and tailored to the specific needs and goals of each student. Basic outline of music curriculum: • Instrument assembly, care, and maintenance. • Hand and body posture/technique. • Tone production, articulation, multi-phonics and vibrato. • Method Books/Etude Books. • Strategies for efficient practicing and performance prep. • Reading music • Music theory - scales, arpeggios, harmony, and ear training • Repertoire - build a list of pieces that you study and perform • Purposeful listening • Improvisation/composition • Transcribing Materials needed: • Instrument in good playing condition • All sheet music, books, and recordings • Lesson logbook • Metronome - mobile app is acceptable • Tuner - mobile app is acceptable *** Specialties *** Saxophone full well-rounded approach utilizing several books/recordings. I am a strong theory teacher and stress proper technique throughout. I always tailor my methods and materials to the specific needs of each student. I also stress good practice skills/habits and make a point to build a performance repertoire and provide students with performance opportunities often.