Saxophone 101 (Basics of Playing, Technique and Sound)

From 48 € /h

Would you (or your child) like to learn the basics of playing saxophone? You are on the right page.

— Learning saxophone from zero (body posture, embouchure etc.)
— Individual approach based on tutee's skills
— Methodology based on Conservatorium van Amsterdam curriculum

Egor Tokarev is a saxophonist, composer, band leader of All Colors of Jazz Union who has released four albums of original music: «Bird 2020» (2020) — in duo with Sungtaek Choo, jazz pianist; «Vexillology», «Double Quintet» (2021); and «Without Rules» (2023) in cooperation with best jazzmen of St. Petersburg, Egor's hometown.

In 2024, Egor Tokarev & All Colors of Jazz Union have won 2 awards in DownBeat's 47th Annual Student Music Awards in following categories:

Original Composition for Small Jazz Ensemble — Egor Tokarev "Eight Winds" — Winner
Small Jazz Combo — Egor Tokarev & All Colors of Jazz Union — Outstanding Performance

Extra information

Own instrument required!
PLEASE NOTE: all lessons are videotaped for safety reasons. These videos are stored for 6 months, can be provided to you first request and intended for private use only.

Location

Use Ctrl + wheel to zoom!

At student's location :

Around Amsterdam, Netherlands

At teacher's location :

Conservatorium van Amsterdam, Conservatorium van Amsterdam

Online from Netherlands

About Me

My name is Egor — I am a jazz saxophonist, composer and arranger from the city of St. Petersburg, currently living in Amsterdam.
I do studies in Conservatorium van Amsterdam for Bachelor Jazz Saxophone degree, currently in Year 2.
I graduated from music college in St. Petersburg in 2022 with 'cum laude' certification.
I've released 3 albums of original music with my own project.
I am giving lessons to people of any age and any skill (from zero skill to music high school admission exams preparation).

Education

2007-2022 — music school and college in St. Petersburg.

Conservatorium van Amsterdam (2022-present, Amsterdam, Netherlands | Bachelor of Music — Jazz Saxophone)

Experience / Qualifications

— 13+ years of saxophone playing
— Versatile genres: jazz, pop, rock, contemporary
— 3 releases of original music (jazz)
— Tutoring experience

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

45 minutes

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Russian

Dutch

Skills

Saxophone

Jazz music

Music teacher training

Reviews

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

At teacher's location and via webcam

At student's home

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Martin

5.0

(1)

🎷 About me
Hi! I’m a saxophone player from Barcelona with over 10 years of experience teaching at a music school. I offer saxophone, clarinet, and flute lessons for all ages and levels — from complete beginners to advanced players.

🎵 What I offer
Whether you want to start from scratch, improve your technique, or learn how to improvise and express yourself through music, my lessons are tailored to your goals and pace.

You can learn how to:

Play your favorite songs

Perform for your family or friends

Develop your skills as a hobby or as a future professional musician

Everyone is welcome in my lessons — let’s make music together!

Stefano

5.0

(1)

Get ready to take charge of your own musical journey with my classes! You'll have the freedom to choose what you want to study, how you want to learn, and which approach best suits your individual style.

Together, we'll create a personalized plan that will take you step-by-step towards your designated goals, with my unwavering support every step of the way. I'll teach you a variety of singing techniques and help you discover your own unique voice. No two singers are the same, so I'll adapt to your needs and provide personalized guidance to help you surpass your goals!

Are you ready to unleash your full potential and take your singing to the next level? Join my classes today and let's get started on this exciting musical journey together!

I strongly believe that the voice is an all-powerful instrument. It converts the invisible into the visible; it transforms emotions into sounds. The voice is subject to continuous evolution. It's a beautiful instrument that offers so many possibilities in terms of expansion.

Federico

5.0

(1)

Are you a music lover who wants to start exploring the magic world of the clarinet or bass clarinet?
A complete beginner or picking up the clarinet after a break? Want to improve your clarinet skills to the next level?
The clarinet is an incredible instrument: I can teach you from classical to improvisation, from jazz to klezmer.
Everything will be arranged according to your musical taste and preferences!

I've graduated in Jazz Bass Clarinet at Conservatorium van Amsterdam and in Classical Clarinet at Milano Conservatory (IT). I've been involved in many different projects as classical Orchestras, jazz big bands, clarinet quartet, chamber music, solo performance, and many jazz bands in the Amsterdam music scene.

Mar

5.0

(1)

Looking for a piano teacher? In Utrecht you will find the friendly Spanish professional pianist Mar. She lives in Utrecht and studies at the Rotterdam Codarts Conservatory of Music, and has already a master's degree from the Utrecht Conservatory (with pedagogical training as well)
She teaches in English, Spanish, Italian, German and soon in Dutch. Lessons can take place at your place or at my place (in the centre of Utrecht) as I have a beautiful grand piano at my disposal. Lessons in Utrecht (and surroundings), Houten, Vleuten, De Meern, Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
For young, teenagers and adults, all levels, no previous experience necessary.

Hallo allemaal!

I have been working for 12 years as a piano and music teacher (I started very very young, when I was 14 years old, because I always liked teaching): I have experience in private lessons and official state music schools, with children from 2 years and adults of all levels, both teaching individually and in groups. I have taught piano, music and movement for children, music theory, solfeggio and choir.

I finished my bachelor studies with the highest marks, I have experience as a concert performer and have won prizes in competitions and several scholarships prizes.

I hope to have the pleasure that we both learn by making music together, do not hesitate to contact me!
Flexible timetable and teaching adapted to the student's preferences

Eduardo

5.0

(1)

Hi! My name is Eduardo, a professional musician and long-time music teacher. I am offering physical and online lessons in Music Theory, Improvisation and Instrument.
#Harmony #Composition #Solfège #Saxophone #Clarinet #Piano

Lessons are addressed to every student profile, regardless of age, level of expectations (no matter if it is seen as a hobby or rather if the individual is getting prepared for official Conservatory auditions, etc.).

We will play and/or focus on what the student is willing to deepen into (whatever music style they are interested in, more theoretical aspects or rather practical ones), trying to get the maximum profit of the employed time, and prioritising the actual learning of the person as the main factor for their motivation.

I obtained my Jazz Music Master's program at the Prince Claus Conservatoire of Groningen in June 2022.
Previously, in 2018, I graduated from my music Bachelor's at the Conservatorio Superior de Música del Liceu in Barcelona (Spain).

Federica

5.0

(1)

Hi, I'm Federica, I am Italian, and I am a Jazz piano player and singer. I studied at the Royal Conservatory of the Hague and I just completed a master in Vocals and Piano at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. I give Jazz/Pop/Classical Piano lessons but my main goal is to try to give the student a general understanding of the music to approach every style and to have fun with music! I love to work with children, I like to teach them good values like patience, self-confidence, trust, communication, and collaboration, all through music. That's what I learn every day by studying music and that's what I would like to transfer to my students. I've been told that If you have music in your life, you can't be a bad person. I believe in it.

I offer live and online lessons:
Piano
Singing
Ear Training
Technique
Improvisation
Repertoire
Music Theory

Nikola

5.0

(1)

In just 4 weeks, I will take you... yes, YOU, with zero experience, no “music talent”, no clue where to start, and show you exactly how to play the songs you love... step by step... Just like I’ve already done for over 200 students before you.

What If I Handed You The Exact Tools, Secrets, And Proven Methods To Finally Master The Accordion... And Made Sure You Actually Used Them?

Listen, you don’t need to be “born with talent.” You don’t need to start young. And you sure as heck don’t need to figure this out alone.

Here’s what you’ll get when you step inside the Accordion Joy Academy:

✔️ Private access to our inner circle community. The place where accordion lovers, from total beginners to seasoned players, share victories, swap tips, and lift each other up.
✔️ The secret techniques to play with virtuosity, even if your fingers feel like sausages right now.
✔️ Complete lesson recordings, sheet music, video breakdowns, playlists, and books, all at your fingertips, so you’ll never feel stuck or lost again.
✔️ A rich, exciting repertoire built around classical gems, but customized to your taste. Want tango? Folk? Movie themes? You got it.
✔️ Music theory made simple, practical, and 100% tied to what you’re actually playing. No fluff. No lectures.
✔️ Speed-learning strategies that help you tackle new pieces faster than you thought possible.
✔️ Clear, motivating goals and a roadmap to get you from where you are now to where you dream of being.
✔️ Study schemes and practice blueprints, designed to squeeze every drop of progress out of the time you have.
✔️ Performance coaching so you don’t just “play notes”... you tell stories through your instrument.
✔️ Weekly working schedules, study guides, to-do lists and action plans. No guesswork. Just follow the plan and watch yourself improve.

This is a rebellion against the idea that you have to be “born talented” or “start at age 5” to become a musician.
I’ll prove it to you.

Why Settle for One Style... When You Can Master Them All?

Most beginners stop at one song... one style... one small win. Not here. Not you.
Because once you learn the system I teach... You won’t just play music, you’ll travel the world without leaving your home...

🎻 Baroque – Music that once echoed in royal courts. You’ll command it like a master.
🎹 Classical – The greats. Mozart. Beethoven. You’ll whisper their language through your bellows.
💃 South American – Think tango, milonga, the kind of rhythms that seduce people off their seats. (Warning: May cause spontaneous dancing.)
🎬 Pop & Movie Music – Themes that make people cry, smile, and remember. Everyone knows these tunes... and now, they’ll know you can play them.
🎩 Musette – That dreamy, nostalgic sound from a smoky Paris café. You don’t just play Musette, you paint a picture.
🎺 Klezmer – Raw. Soulful. Sometimes sad, sometimes wild. Always unforgettable.
🎷 Jazz – This isn’t “just notes.” It’s attitude. It’s freedom. You’ll feel it in your bones.
🍀 Irish Folk – Fast, fun, and full of character. You’ll be grinning every time you squeeze out a reel or jig.
🏴‍☠️ Scottish Folk – Stirring. Bold. Warrior music with soul. You’ll feel it in your chest.
🥁 Balkan Folk – Offbeat rhythms and wild melodies that dare you to stay in your seat.
🧠 Contemporary Classical – Modern, expressive, and unlike anything you’ve heard before. It’s where the old world meets the new.

And when they hear you play... they’ll ask, “Where did you learn to do that?”

You’ll smile... because you’ll know.
It started right here.

Hi, I'm Nikola, Your Teacher.
I wasn’t born with a gift.
At five years old, I picked up an accordion that was almost bigger than me. I didn’t know it then, but that single moment would shape the rest of my life.

Since that day, I’ve dedicated over two decades to mastering this beautiful, misunderstood instrument. And along the way, I discovered something powerful, you don’t need to be born with talent, perfect timing, or a famous last name to make music. You just need a little courage to start... and the right guide to help you along the way.

In 2020, I graduated from the prestigious ArtEZ Conservatory in The Netherlands with a degree in accordion teaching. But truth be told, most of what makes me the teacher I am today didn’t come from a classroom. It came from the stage. From competitions. From the nerves before a performance and the applause that follows. I’ve been honored to win the Dutch National Accordion Competition. Twice. But what matters more is this:

I know exactly what it feels like to think something’s too difficult.
I’ve seen students who thought they were too old, too inexperienced, or too busy. People who believed music wasn’t for them, until they realized it was.

That’s why I created Accordion Joy Academy. Because whether you’re 5 or 75, whether you’ve played before or not, you can learn to play the accordion. And I’ll prove it to you.

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “I wish I could do that”, now’s your moment.
I’ll meet you where you are, and together, we’ll turn those old doubts into music.

30 Days from Now... You'll Be Playing Your First Song, Or You Get Every Cent Back.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve never touched an accordion in your life... or if you haven’t learned something new in years... Because with my step by step method, you will play your first song in just 30 days, proudly, confidently, and with a smile on your face.

And if you don’t? If you try and it simply isn’t for you? Just let me know. I’ll refund every penny.

Because at this stage in life, you deserve more than empty promises. You deserve real joy, real results, and a risk-free way to experience both. Let’s make these next 30 days start of something beautiful.

Oleg

5.0

(1)

I am a professional musician graduated from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam(Master degree, Jazz Department). I have a wide experience of teaching and performing which I would be glad to share with you.

On our lessons we can consider such aspects of performing as:
- breathing
- sound quality
- phrasing
- lips flexibility and legato
- articulation
- sight reading
- improvisation

I am flexible in process of teaching. I can offer systematic and personal approach. According of your level, needs and interests we can:
- make a plan of lessons and learn topics step by step
- work with specific questions and material you choose
- prepare for exams. For example, entrance exam in Conservatorium

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to send me!

Leonardo

5.0

(1)

Saxophone and music theory teacher available for lessons in Amsterdam.

Whether you are a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to improve your technique, we'll design a lesson plan that is right for you. The lessons are held in a comfortable and welcoming environment with a range of flexible scheduling options, you can find the perfect time for your saxophone lessons. So why wait? Sign up for saxophone lessons today!

Topics include: embrochure, sound, improvisation, technique, theory, playing by ear and rhythm.

Lessons in Spanish are also available.

Lee

5.0

(1)

Hello!
I am Dohyun from South Korea. I am a second-year jazz drum student at Conservatorium van Amsterdam.
I have 3 years of experience teaching drums at music schools in Korea and Vietnam.
I am open-minded as a musician and as a person, I like to have a relaxed, joyful class, and I also value basic, fundamental stuff, rhythm, and harmony.
Doesn't matter if you are a total beginner, or if you already play drums and want to learn more, I can help you with that!
If you have a specific genre that you want to learn or a material you would like to use, we can discuss it!
If you are interested in learning drums, feel free to contact me!

Tal

5.0

(1)

Welcome to my trumpet lessons, where a passion for music meets expert guidance. I'm Tal and I graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2018. I bring 8 years of teaching experience to aspiring musicians of all ages. In our sessions, we'll embark on a comprehensive journey, honing in on essential aspects such as breathing techniques, instrument flexibility, and the art of improvisation. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player, we'll craft a personalized approach to elevate your skills, fostering not just technical proficiency but a deep love for the trumpet and the joy of musical expression.

Samuel

5.0

(1)

Hello!
My name is Samuel and I am originally from Germany. I am currently studying Jazz trombone at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. As a freelance musician, I have had the pleasure of performing in a variety of different musical genres including big band, small combos and samba music.

I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and love for music with others. I offer personalized lessons in trombone technique, music theory, sight-reading, and improvisation. Whether you are a beginner looking to start your musical journey or an advanced player aiming to refine your skills, I am here to help you achieve your goals. Let's make music together!

Yehorii

5.0

(1)

This course is designed for anyone who wants to develop their saxophone playing skills with solid guidance and support.

In each lesson, you'll learn the fundamentals of saxophone playing, including proper technique and posture. If you're a more advanced student, we’ll focus on the specific areas you want to improve — whether it's improvisation, tone, or advanced repertoire.

The lessons are made to your goals, and the aim is for you to not only learn and grow as a musician but also enjoy the process and see real results.

Didac

5.0

(1)

Hi! I’m Didac Barber, a professional concert pianist and experienced teacher from Spain, now based in the Netherlands.

I hold a Master’s in Piano Performance from The Hartt School (USA) and trained at ESMUC Barcelona, studying with top international pianists like Adolf Pla and Luiz de Moura Castro. I’ve performed across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, and have taught piano for over 15 years — in conservatories, private studios, and internationally online.

My passion lies not only in performance but in helping students discover what they are capable of. I’m dedicated, empathetic, and patient — and I want you to enjoy your learning journey as much as I do sharing it.

Each student is different, and so are my lessons.
Whether you're just starting out or already preparing for auditions or performances, I’ll adapt the lesson to your goals, challenges, and musical taste.

We can work, all in a way that feels personal and motivating, on:
* Technique and sound production
* Repertoire (classical, contemporary, film music, etc.)
* Musical expression and interpretation
* Performance preparation (concerts, exams, auditions)
* Practice strategies and confidence-building

I’m here to help you be the best pianist you can be, whether that means mastering Bach or finally playing your favorite piece with confidence.

Lessons are at students home or online, and taught in English, Spanish, or Catalan, unfortunately not in Dutch for now.

Feel free to message me if you have any questions. I’d love to hear about your musical goals and help you reach them.
Let’s make music together!
— Didac 🎶

Pietro

5.0

(1)

Hey there! Do you want to start a new hobby? Do you already play the piano and you want to improve your skills with a creative approach to the instrument? Then I think I can help you!
I can teach you basic and advanced concepts of any style on the piano (classical, jazz, pop-rock...), and if you like improvisation and jazz then we get along even better!
I offer very personalized classes based on your level and interests. My approach to teaching strongly takes the student's CREATIVITY into account, but without forgetting that a good knowledge of MUSIC THEORY and PIANO TECHNIQUE are essential.

About my philosophy in teaching music:
In a creative field like music, education is a delicate matter. I firmly believe that a teacher must do everything possible to avoid suppressing the student’s personal voice. Each of us — regardless of age or skill level — has a unique approach to music, even before touching the instrument!
My goal is to help students discover their own musical identity at the piano, drawing on my experience and offering a solid theoretical foundation tailored to their interests and level.
That said, as in any discipline, there are no shortcuts in music. Passion and dedication are essential to achieving meaningful results. Furthermore, a solid technical and theoretical foundation is indispensable, no matter your musical interests.
I look forward to sharing my deep passion for music with you. Feel free to reach out for more information!