Information About Andrew - Marlow teacher -

(5 reviews)

Personal Description:

I took a keen interest in music, and in particular jazz and big band music, from a young age. This was largely due to the influence of my grandfather who was an accomplished trumpeter and band leader.

I began playing clarinet from the age of 11 and soon after took up the saxophone and piano. I received an excellent and broad musical education from Hillingdon Music Services and Watford School of Music until the age of 18. After my A levels I decided to continue my studies at Leeds College of Music where I specialised in Jazz, graduating in 1999 with a BA (Hons) Degree.

I have enjoyed a professional music career for over 20 years now and in that time have performed at the highest level with many of the leading Big Bands in the UK, West End and touring theatre shows, recording sessions, Royal Marines Band Service, aboard many prestigious cruise ships, function bands and numerous jazz ensembles. During this time I have always sought to strengthen myself academically, achieving a Masters Degree from Salford University in 2008 as well as passing a number of relevant professional courses.

I currently hold the position of principal saxophonist with the Central Band of the Royal Air Force and am Musical Director and Lead Alto Saxophone for the Royal Air Force Squadronaires. I also continue to freelance, notably with the incomparable Syd Lawrence Orchestra.

Tutoring Experience:

I have provided one to one instrumental tuition on a private basis for many years and for a wide range of ages and abilities.
2020 - Level 3 Award in Education & Training
2018 - present - Saxophone & Clarinet Professor - Elstree Preparatory School, Upper Woolhampton
2018 - provided Flute/Clarinet/Saxophone tuition lessons at Hogan Music Academy whilst the regular teacher was on a period of leave.
2012 - 2019 - delivered a number of jazz improvisation sessions for Royal Air Force Music Services
2008 - 10 - Provided a series of adult jazz improvisation classes and jam sessions for West Lothian Arts.
2008 - 10. Assistant academic instructor for Royal Marines Band, Scotland.

Tutoring Approach:

Above all I believe learning an instrument should be fun. It should provide challenges and rewards, encourage inquisitiveness and develop new skills and knowledge.

Tailoring the tuition to suit the individual is of utmost importance. It is widely known that there are a variety of preferred learning styles. I try to establish a rapport with the student early on so I understand how I can best assist he/she to maximise their potential. At the early stages of learning an instrument it can be tough - : We struggle to remember fingerings; sound production is variable; the process feels slow and arduous. And so the quicker the student grasps the basics through good advice and personal endeavour, the more the process will become enjoyable. And the more enjoyable it becomes, the more the student will want to play which in turn will make them more inclined to practice.

I view the role of the teacher as one who is there to open doors, offer advise, teach the student how and what to practise and gently encourage and nurture a love of music. Ultimately the student who is willing and able to practise effectively will experience good and steady progress.