Sean | Teacher #3265
About Sean
Sean is a dedicated music educator offering online and in-home lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, composition, ear training, jazz improvisation, music appreciation, music history, and music theory (both beginner-intermediate and advanced levels). With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in jazz saxophone performance from York University, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his teaching. His teaching philosophy emphasizes creating a welcoming and supportive environment tailored to each student's specific needs and learning style. Sean believes that everyone can achieve a fulfilling level of musical performance and strives to cultivate independent and self-directed attitudes in all his students. Book an interview now.
Flute Clarinet Saxophone Ear Training Music History Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate) Music Appreciation Composition Music Theory (Advanced) Jazz Improvation
Online Lessons Lessons in Your Home
Jazz Pop Rock Latin Rock and Roll Folk Blues Rhythm and Blues Ska Funk
English
Teaching Philosophy
My fundamental belief is that anyone can, and should, learn to play music. I think it enriches every part of our lives and provides value not just to ourselves but to society at large. For this reason I approach teaching with an open and easy going attitude, I want everyone to feel welcome and supported. I tailor each lesson to the specific needs, desires, and learning styles of my students and I take great care in addressing specific areas of improvement while reinforcing strengths. I think anybody can achieve a level of musical performance that is personally fulfilling and I incorporate strategies to cultivate an independent and self directed attitude in all my students.
Musical Education
I have an Honours BFA in jazz saxophone performance from York University in Toronto. I studied saxophone with Kelly Jefferson and Tara Davidson, composition with Barry Elmes, and ensemble performance with Jim Vivian, Artie Roth, and Mike Cado. I have since studied privately with New York based musicians Evan Arntzen (Clarinet) and Kirk Knuffke (Cornet). In high school I participated in a co-op placement teaching elementary school music from kindergarten to grade 8 teaching Orff, recorders, and concert band. I also spent a year playing baritone saxophone and bass clarinet in the Toronto All-Star Big Band which gave me the opportunity to tour across southern Ontario and perform at the TD Beaches Jazz Festive, Flato Markham Theatre, the Mississauga Living Arts Centre, and others. In 2019 I was selected to be a part of the TD Jazz Festival's Youth Musician Intensive where I rehearsed and performed on the main stage of the festival alongside 7 other young musicians under the direction of pianist Nancy Walker.
Awards and Distinctions
Sorbara Award in Music - York University 2019 Oscar Peterson Scholarship - York University 2019 Sterling Beckwith Award - York University 2019 TD Toronto Jazz Festival Jazz Musician Intensive Program - 2019 Harvey - Marsden Music Award - 2020
Special Skills and Trainings
I grew up playing guitar, bass, and mandolin in a variety of rock, blues, folk, and country bands. I learned to write songs with my friends and collaborated to put on concerts and battle of the bands. I think music can and should serve personal, communal, and professional roles and thus I am open to and strongly encourage a variety of motivations for seeking private music lessons.
Lessons in your home
Sean is available to teach in your home if you are located in the following areas:- Montreal, QC
Lessons on an online platform
Sean 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:
Sean 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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