
Jack is a dedicated saxophone teacher based in Toronto, providing lessons online, in his studio, and in students' homes. He holds a Bachelor of Music with Honours from Mount Allison University and a Master's in Music Performance from the University of Toronto. His education includes workshops with Canadian music luminaries and he's a recipient of several prestigious awards, highlighting his musical expertise and dedication. Jack speaks English and French, offering lessons in saxophone, jazz improvisation, music appreciation, and advanced music theory. His special skills include instrument repair and sports psychology techniques to help students overcome performance anxiety. Book an interview now.
I believe that a kind and nurturing approach is the most effective way to achieve musical brilliance. I do this both in the way that I offer instruction, as well as teaching my students how to be kind to themselves as they develop as musicians. I recognize that each student has different goals and methods in which they learn best, so I tailor my teaching to each student individually so that they can succeed and enjoy the process as much as possible. Music allows us to tell our stories no matter what they may be, and in my teaching, I strive to give my students the tools they need to express themselves freely, as well as grow not just as musicians, but as people.
I hold a Bachelor of Music with Honours from Mount Allison University and a masters in music performance from the University of Toronto. I began studying music privately when I was six years old, when my father would drive me to a neighbouring town for piano lessons since there was no one who could offer them where I lived. I continued piano until high school, when I switched my focus to the saxophone. During my time at Mount Allison University, I studied primarily classical music, however I pursued additional instruction and study in jazz, pop and rock styles as well as instrument repair and maintenance. After I graduated, I moved to Toronto where I received my masters in saxophone performance. During this time I assisted the lower year undergraduate students with supplementary lessons, as well as developed a far greater understanding of musical theory and history. I have also received coaching and done workshops with some of the biggest names in Canadian music, including jazz saxophonist Phil Dwyer and singer/conductor Barbara Hannigan. My musical education has been filled with kind and supportive instructors and I hope to be able to carry on that torch.
I am a four time recipient of the Arts New Brunswick scholarship, and a 2 time recipient of their career development grant. Additionally, I was awarded the J.E.A crake performance award in music for the class of 2020 from Mount Allison University and was a co-winner of the Mount Allison Concerto Competition. I was also awarded the Lunenburg Academy of Music Performance Emerging Young Artist Award and the Laetitia-Cyr bursary from Jeunesse Musicales.
During my undergraduate degree, I had the privilege of expanding my knowledge of instruments by learning instrument repair from my teacher. As such, I can not only teach how to play the saxophone but how to maintain complete minor repairs and understand the mechanics that make the instrument work. Additionally, my time with the Equilibrium Young Artist program has given me a strong grasp of sports psychology techniques to help mitigate performance anxiety and ways to improve practice habits and promote a positive mentality when approaching music.
Jack is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
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!
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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