Lessons for Dedicated Musicians

saxophonists, improvisers, composers, devotees

Saxophonists

The Secret to Producing a Great Tone is not a $1000+ Mouthpiece

enrich your sound production (physical) and sound conception (imagination)

improve breath support / tongue position / embouchure / articulation

dial in desirable resistance for a resonant, flexible, and supple tone

define and develop deeper projection, presence, and power

exploit your equipment in search for true beauty

explore sonic colors, textures, and timbres

master melody, harmony, rhythm

embody the flow of music

lift the bandstand

SING!

Improvisers

Whether STUDYING an established musical idiom or INNOVATING your own personal musical language, a visceral connection to musical resonance and creative flow is imperative.

elevate your collaborative potential — bringing depth and sensitivity to any style or instrumentation

foster your ability to sustain creative flow in a room alone with your instrument

explore the elements of form with a curious and inquisitive mindset

develop spontaneous ideas with clarity and intention

connect your ears with your instrument

embody your music

PHRASE!

“The Hang”

We have wonderful conversations on the creative process in motion:

“what is melody? what is phrasing? what is swing? what is an idea?”

THERE IS NO END IN SIGHT — NO ANSWER, NO CONCLUSION

It's all alive and in perpetual flux

You have to pick up your instrument and put sound in motion

Otherwise, what would be the point?

Common Creative Topics

Presence

Resonance

Melodic Improvisation

Playing Alone / Playing Together

How to Play Compelling Music by Ear

Sound CONCEPT vs. Sound PRODUCTION

The Myth of Control in Our Pursuit of Mastery

Lyrical Phrasing vs. Mechanical Phrasing

How to Play with Clarity and Conviction

Ideas and Where They Come From

Form, Feeling, Function

Embodiment

Flow

Testimonials

“I credit Derrick for everything I know about improvising from a place of beauty and depth, as well as making a vibrating piece of grass not sound like a kazoo” — Tyler White (Berklee ‘26)

“I have to say I really love studying with you — this is helping me see the horn the way that I did as a kid when I first started playing, as something that’s a deep connnection…it’s made a huge difference.” — Matt Hooper (Towson University)

“Derrick is my favorite saxophone teacher I have ever had. I wish I had the time to study with him more regularly. He completely changed how I understood the instrument in just a few lessons. Can’t recommend him enough.” — Jacob Deaven (Quick Save, Steel Samurai)