Teaching Lessons/coaching required but where to start

[antonyantony]

coaching required

Dear all,

I’ve been playing the saxophone for around 35 years now - it feels even longer seeing it written down! Over that time, I’ve toured, recorded, and practised extensively. Despite all that experience, I’m entirely self-taught (aside from four lessons in my youth), and I’m well aware that while I’ve developed my own style, quirks and all, there are still gaps in my technique, particularly when it comes to jazz.

In terms of gear, I’m very happy with my setup: a Yanagisawa on soprano, and a Selmer Mark VI, early model for alto, later model for tenor. I’m really pleased with the sound I’ve found. What I’m now looking for is a coach, someone who can offer insightful guidance, help me identify key areas for development, and perhaps point me toward a few new things to work on.

I should add a caveat: I may not be the easiest student. Being older and fairly intolerant of people who claim expertise without substance, I’m looking for someone who really knows their stuff, ideally someone passionate, grounded, and experienced. Maybe that’s you, or perhaps it’s someone you know or have studied with.

I’m based around London/Essex, so proximity is a plus, but I do enjoy travelling and would be open to working with someone farther afield if the fit is right.

Any recommendations or connections would be very warmly appreciated.

Many thanks,

 

[Pete Effamy]

If you’re near London then you can pretty much choose anyone you like so long as they teach. Are you after a jazzer or an all-rounder, or particularly a technical guy?

 

[Pete Effamy]

there are still gaps in my technique, particularly when it comes to jazz.

Do you mean gaps in your jazz understanding / knowledge / language?

Because, technically, getting around the horn is getting around the horn. 🤷🏻‍♂️

 

[antonyantony]

Yes. My improvisation is good but sometimes I just don't get what is going on and why. Like I am blagging jazz rather than actually understanding it. Sounds fine to the average punter so to speak but I am not so sure it's doing what I want it to.
Hence a coach rather than a teacher of technique.

 

[PiccoloPirate]

I would guess that since you don't need to learn technique, there must be colleges or universities, that have classes, in Jazz theory and composition.
Research as to what they offer.

 

[thomsax]

I should add a caveat: I may not be the easiest student. Being older and fairly intolerant of people who claim expertise without substance, I’m looking for someone who really knows their stuff, ideally someone passionate, grounded, and experienced

Are your sure that you need a musical coach? There can be other, without music/muscian background, that can help you.

 

[Jeanette]

@aldevis are you still teaching?

Jx

 

[aldevis]

@aldevis are you still teaching?

Jx

I am indeed, in good ol' London

 

[Jeanette]

I should add a caveat: I may not be the easiest student. Being older and fairly intolerant of people who claim expertise without substance, I’m looking for someone who really knows their stuff, ideally someone passionate, grounded, and experienced

You will get on famously with @aldevis !

Jx