Doug | Teacher #3252
About Doug
Doug, an experienced musician and educator, offers online lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, composition, jazz improvisation, and music theory (both beginner-intermediate and advanced levels), including RCM basic and intermediate levels. With over 40 years of performing experience and 27 years of private music tutoring, Doug brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his teaching. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of music as an integral part of education and focuses on proper breathing techniques for wind instrument players. Doug's approach to teaching is relaxed and friendly, allowing students to set their own pace while providing the necessary challenge for growth. Book an interview now.
Flute Clarinet Saxophone Recorder Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate) Composition Music Theory (Advanced) Jazz Improvation RCM - Intermediate Harmony RCM - Basic Harmony RCM - Intermediate Rudiments RCM - Basic Rudiments
Online Lessons
Classical Jazz Rock Rock and Roll Rhythm and Blues
English
Teaching Philosophy
I strongly believe that music should be an integral part of a person's education. It is as important as any other subject in the curriculum. Exposure to music (or to any cultural/artistic discipline) is an essential part of a well-rounded human being. Since I teach wind instruments, proper breathing is key to good performance. My initial lessons with any student - child or adult - include instruction in breathing technique. In private tutoring, it is important to let the student set the pace of learning. If students are pushed too hard, they will become frustrated and will ultimately quit their studies. On the other hand, the teacher must provide a challenge that the student can realistically meet. Otherwise the student will become bored and the result will be the same. They will quit their studies. Overall I favour a relaxed, friendly approach to lessons, so that the student feels comfortable with me.
Musical Education
My initial training began at age 12 in saxophone and clarinet. My teachers were well-known educators and performers in my city. After several years' hiatus I returned to music full time. I have studied both classical and jazz music at Humber College in Toronto. My teachers highly respected performers in Canada and abroad. I have now been a performer for 40 years and a private music tutor for 27 years.
Awards and Distinctions
One of my compositions was runner-up in the West Coast Songwriting Competition in San Francisco, USA. Another was semi-finalist in the jazz category of the UK International Songwriting Contest.
Special Skills and Trainings
Since I was a child I have loved jazz and always wanted to be a jazz musician. I have achieved that goal and have become an excellent jazz improvisor. I have performed in this capacity in much of North America and Cuba as well. I have had numerous students show an interest in improvisation; consequently I have developed a method of instruction in this art form. Also, I have had a great deal of experience as a composer and have recorded several albums of my compositions. In addition, I have had some of my music licensed for television.
Lessons on an online platform
Doug can provide online instruction. While other platforms are possible BAH strongly recommends the use of the Zoom video conferencing platform as it is optimized for music lessons and audio quality.Reviews
Associate Teacher Lesson Rates:
Doug is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
- 30 minutes: $39
- 45 minutes: $49
- 60 minutes: $59
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Our Promise to You
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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