sax, saxophonist, saxophone teacher, saxophone tuition, saxophone lessons, saxophone tutor, Exeter, Devon   

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Saxophone lessons in Exeter, Devon

I presently have teaching slots available for saxophone players at all ability levels from beginners to advanced. I aim to develop your playing wherever you are at by building on your strengths and by helping you to identify and overcome difficulties. I have a large range of exercises and techniques to help you improve your playing and these are accompanied by printed sheets which I will give you to take away and work on. Areas covered include basic technique, sound development, reading music, jazz repertoire, jazz harmony and improvisation. An interest in jazz is not necessary and I am also comfortable teaching saxophonists with interests in other areas. I also teach jazz harmony and improvisation to players of other frontline instrument who have a basic facility on their instrument.

I am registered as a teacher with the Musician's Union and teach students on the Exeter University music scholarship scheme. I hold an enhanced disclosure certificate from the Criminal Records Bureau.

Lessons are taken in my studio in Exeter and cost £25 per hour. My usual teaching days are Tuesdays and Saturdays but I can be flexible if both of these days are impossible.

Email lazybirdjazz@hotmail.com or telephone 07966 034 884 for an informal chat about your tuition needs.

Free Sample Lesson 1  Sound & Pitching

Free Sample Lesson 2  Rhythmic Scale Practise
 

 

What my past and present students say:

 

"My lessons with Pete this year have been fantastic. I'd played in jazz bands before but never really understood how to improvise properly, but Pete's lessons have completely transformed my playing! I am now much more confident at improvising and understand what I am doing and what sorts of things to play. The lessons are also fantastic value for money as Pete gave me many exercises to practice and a comprehensive grounding in jazz theory which will continue to help me throughout the rest of my life, so thank you very much! I have thoroughly enjoyed my sax lessons this year!" (Catherine Hardy, alto sax, Exeter University Music Scholar)
 

"I have been an alto Sax student of Pete's for approx 10 weeks. I find my lessons very enjoyable and constructive.  Bearing in mind I couldn't read music and only played three notes before I started.  In my late 50's I had doubts whether I would be able to achieve my long standing ambition.  But under Pete's tuition I not only know I will achieve it but a lot quicker then expected and I am thoroughly enjoying every minute of it." Jacquie Shorter, Torbay (alto sax)

"I took up the saxophone at 47 having never played a musical instrument. Pete is an excellent teacher, friendly, extremely knowledgeable, adapts his teaching to his pupil's foibles and knows just when to put the pressure on and when to relax. Within a short time I knew the basics of the instrument, how to read music and had an insight into music theory. I would have no hesitation in recommending Pete to anyone, if he can get a complete novice like myself playing he can help anyone." Chris Wood, Dartmoor (tenor sax)

"Hey Pete, Just got my exam results back........passed with distinction! Its amazing! 87/100. Cheers for all your help, probably wouldn't have got distinction without your help." Jack, (alto sax), aged 16 from Okehampton upon hearing he has passed Trinity grade 7 jazz.

"I had jazz improvisation & harmony lessons with Pete whilst studying at University in Exeter as part of my music scholarship. And as a trumpet player I found studying with a sax master a very refreshing thing, as well as a welcome technical challenge. Pete’s knowledge of jazz harmony is first class, he really opened my eyes to some of the endless possibilities good jazz can create, and his very thorough approach leaves no grey areas in your own knowledge. Now working as a professional jazz musician myself in London, I can safely say I would not be where I am now without Pete’s tuition." (Duncan Fraser, trumpet, Exeter University Music Scholar)     

"Pete's methodical approach and the structure of his lessons have brought my playing to a higher level which I could not have achieved on my own. His friendly but firm manner is keeping me on the right path to becoming a better all round player." David Griffiths, Exmouth (tenor sax)

"Pete is a great teacher and musician – a rare combination! He has a wealth of experience and talent and I would come away from lessons feeling inspired and motivated.  He worked with me as a person, and with my unique way of learning – this brought out the best in me. I could not have asked for more! " Cathrin, near Exeter (alto sax)

"I had been teaching myself tenor sax for a few years but was making slow or no progress, particularly in jazz improvisation.  I saw Pete play a gig locally and was very impressed with his playing (I would recommend catching one of his gigs!!) and approached him to ask for lessons. It was the best thing I could have done. I feel my playing has improved quickly and I am thoroughly enjoying my sax again.  Pete is a relaxed and encouraging teacher and has helped me improve my sound, technique and understanding of improvisation.  If anyone is looking for sax tuition – look no further! " Tony Kaye, South Zeal (tenor sax)