Frequently Asked Questions

What subjects do you teach?
Playing all the saxophones, jazz history and the politics and social influence of America’s only real art-form.

What are your qualifications?
I studied clarinet with Derek Hyams at Dulwich College for six years. On his advice I “bought a saxophone, joined a band and learnt how to do it properly.” No formal qualifications; just a professional career going back to 1966.

What experience do you have?
I have been a freelance all my career so I have had a wide variety of experience. Rock’n’Roll (Bill Haley) to jazz (Sonny Stitt), theatres (Rocky Horror Show, National Theatre U.S. tour as musical director) to one-nighters (too numerous to mention), tours (Marvin Gaye, Temptations etc.) to residencies (Claridge’s). The only music I haven’t been called upon to play is classical. I have been teaching for seven years. and have got a student in to the Brit School.

How much do you charge:?
£30 per hour.

Where do you teach?
At home. I have an enormous record, CD, book and DVD collection that I use to illustrate, educate and inspire my pupils. I also have computer access to over 100 of my self-written duets of standards from easy to advanced. Parents of younger children are welcome to sit-in on lessons.

When are you available?
I teach during the day Monday to Saturday. No later than 6 o’clock. I also offer off-street parking and a cup of tea.

What are the age of your pupils?
My youngest pupil was 9 years old when he first came to me. He started on a curved soprano and now he is fifteen and a good tenor player. My oldest pupil is 61 and loving it.

Message to students:
Love your instrument and love the music. It will last you a lifetime.

Are you CRB registered?
Yes