Information About Rafael - Kingswinford teacher

Personal Description:

Rafael is a professional jazz & classical saxophonist, flutist and clarinettist with 15+ years experience performing both solo and in collaboration with various musical groups. These include his own bands, esteemed musical artists, cover bands, tribute bands and jazz/swing big bands. His performances have taken him to national and international music venues, festivals, and tours ranging on different styles of music. Having graduated from the Birmingham Conservatoire (BMus Hons Jazz Studies) and also completing the 8th Grade (ABRSM) on Classical Saxophone Rafael has long been enthusiastic about studying jazz and classical music on the saxophone. During all his formative years and most of his career he has enjoyed every opportunity to share his passion through music by being an inspiring, supportive and encouraging woodwind teacher.

Tutoring Experience:

Over the last 8 years of private instruction experience Rafael has been working as a Woodwind Teacher (saxophone, flute, and clarinet) on both classical and jazz music. Rafael is happy to work with students of all levels and ages to make fast and effective improvement. Over the years he has shown high levels of knowledge having taught music theory (classical & Jazz), Jazz improvisation, composition (classical & Jazz) as well as has successfully preparing students for all the different types of exams such as GCSE, A-Level exams, and ABRSM, LCM, LSM, Trinity College London (TCL), RSM, Rock School. Furthermore, Rafael has conducted few practical 15min seminars on “How to play the saxophone” and also 30min workshop on “Jazz Improvisation” for a community jazz big band (Note Benders).

Tutoring Approach:

Rafael offers a wide range of experiences and is interested in focusing on ways to help each student achieve their maximum potential. Whatever your background, age group or level, whether you coming to instruction for the first time, returning after many years, continuing study after conservatory, preparing for exams or even on a professional path Rafael has enough knowledge to be able to adapt his instruction according to individual needs and preferences of each student by providing books, exercises and/or repertoire.

He believes in creating a friendly and professional atmosphere making sure that students feel supported on their individual musical journey, by giving them the knowledge necessary for reaching their personal aspirations.

Beginner students
Rafael understands that starting your journey on learning a new musical instrument can be difficult which is why he’s always a supportive and encouraging teacher towards new students. No prior experience is required! On the first lesson there’s no need to own an instrument as Rafael will provide everything necessary and guide each student on the basics of how to play. By the end of the first lesson students are able to play a few notes on the instrument and have all the basic knowledge needed.

First Lesson

Typically, the first lesson begins with an introduction and informal chat where Rafael and his students get to know each other and discuss the student’s musical interests and aspirations
No prior experience is required! On the first lesson there’s no need to own an instrument as Rafael will provide everything necessary and guide each student on the basics of how to play. By the end of the first lesson students are able to play a few notes on the instrument and have all the basic knowledge needed.

In-person lessons usually take place at Rafael’s teaching studio or alternatively on student’s chosen location. To benefit from Rafael’s teaching, it’s recommended that student have their own instrument (Saxophone, Clarinet or Flute) although, Rafael has knowledge on available and affordable instrument hire services as well as provides guidance to all students on purchasing their first instrument.