
Jon S.

Teaching Locations:


Teaching Locations:


Levels taught:
Beginner, IntermediateI believe that students learn best when they are invested in a subject, and the best way to get them invested is to individually get to know each one, speak to them on their level, and get them playing music they're interested in.
About Jon S.
I'm a professional performer, educator, and recording artist. I received my Masters in Music from New Mexico State University, and my BA and BME from the College of Wooster in Ohio.
Students can expect to improve their technique and performing repertoire within a matter of weeks. We will collaborate to find music that he or she is interested in, plus work on exercises that will build technique and sound quality. It doesn’t matter WHAT you’re playing, but HOW you play it.
I’ve been a musician for over 20 years and played in a wide variety of settings. In lessons, I’ll draw from that experience to help students achieve their musical goals.
As a performing artist, I’ve played in classic big bands, small jazz combos, and R&B style horn sections, just to name a few. I’m passionate about classical music, jazz, R&B, and funk, but good technique is good technique, and a proficient musician should and can jump from one style to another with ease.
Reviews
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My experience with Jon is pleasant and effective. His knowledge and patience creates a fun atmosphere that is both challenging and inspiring. He clearly loves to teach and I am lucky to learn from him.

Jon was wonderful! He gave me some great tips and even provided some material in helping me build
My guitar skills. He was great at listening and giving me a well thought out answers to my questions. I highly recommend it this teacher!

Jon is great! Initially I was concerned he was using a lot of the time assessing, but his suggestions were SO pertinent that I now appreciate that he spent a lot of time upfront to know me, my goals and my current level. I can tell his advice will be fruitful!

Jon is a superb music teacher for adult beginners. He's very encouraging, patient, and knowledgeable. His big smile paired with his easy going personality is very inviting, and his ability to meet his student where they are and keep the lesson on track is where he shined in our session(s). By the end of our first session I had specific goals and recommendations on how to make progress for where I'm at it my practice. I'd highly recommend John to anyone looking to pick up music.

good first lesson. looking forward to more.

Excellent teacher and person.

Amazing teacher. Very gentle and kind.
A great start!

Jon was a great teacher for our teenager, helping him improve his reading while still leaving room open for self-expression and improvising with music that he likes. He is himself a really great musician, and a teacher that knows how to meet students where their interests are and help them learn.

John has been teaching my son clarinet from the very beginning and it's been great hearing the progress. He is patient and encouraging in his feedback, and is willing to work with whatever level of commitment (i.e. practice) he is given. I think it's largely due to Jon that my son has stayed interested in playing.

Jon is very kind and friendly. He is extremely innovative and tailors the lessons to the level/needs of the student. He's a stellar musician, but is very patient and encouraging in coaching to help the student improve. He is also flexible with rescheduling lessons when necessary. His move to LA is a big loss for us.

Jon was a wonderful teacher. He tailored my lessons to my personal goals and musical interests. He was flexible, and really supportive. He also gave me new insight into how I can develop as a musician.

Jon is helping me to relearn the clarinet after many (47!) years of not playing. I wish I had half the brain power I did back then. But he's very encouraging. My goal is to play with a concert band just a couple of months from now, so he's customizing my lessons to meet that goal. When I encounter challenges, he's very good at explaining ways to overcome those challenges. I really like working with Jon and feel lucky to have found such a good teacher.

Outstanding with a tween!!

Fantastic

Jeremy really enjoyed meeting Jon and taking first lesson from him because Jon was fun and relatable. He took time to explain and easy to understand. Looking forward to many more lessons from Jon.

Not only to play better but to understand music theory.
Jon and I studied at New Mexico State University where we were in the same saxophone studio and eventually, the same quartet. Jon is creative and a very talented instrumentalist. He is great to work with, and his warm personality makes every encounter welcoming. His versatility and ability to perform many different styles is what makes him a cut above the rest. If you're interested in playing jazz, classical, pop, R&B or funk styles, Jon can help you achieve your goals!

I took Private lessons with Jon for almost two years in high school. He was always very knowledgeable and helpful, and was a major factor in my success those years in making All State and other Honor Bands. I only stopped taking lessons when I moved away for college, or else I'd still be taking them now! He was always organized and easy to schedule with. Definitely my best experience with a Private Instructor to date!
Photos & Videos
6 Photos & VideosExperience
College Instructor
Jul 2015 - May 2017San Jacinto College
College Instructor
Aug 2009 - May 2012New Mexico State University
Education
Masters of Music in Saxophone Performance
Aug 2008 - Dec 2010New Mexico State University
BME in Music Education
Aug 2003 - May 2007The College of Wooster
BA Saxophone Performance
Aug 2003 - May 2007The College of Wooster
Languages
English
Fluent / Native Proficiency
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