WOODWINDS DEPARTMENT

The Fox River Academy Woodwinds Department provides high level professional musical training to our community through a fun and nurturing learning environment. We tailor private instruction to meet the needs of each individual student, recognizing that each student has different strengths and challenges. Lessons will focus on techniques of reading, rhythm, theory, intonation, sound production, posture and breathing, giving the students the important fundamentals they need to play the musical style of their choice in their music education.  

Recommended session duration: Youth - 30/45 minutes;
Teenage and Adult – 45/60 minutes.

Age to Start Saxophone/Flute/Clarinet Lessons:
Private flute, saxophone and clarinet lessons start from ages 7-8 and up, when students have the lung capacity and strength to handle supporting the air flow necessary for producing a steady and consistent tone.

Although your teacher also will have a method he/she employs as part of their lesson program, many of our students bring in excerpts and band music to help prepare them for their orchestra and band auditions. Private lessons are a great way to give your child a head start and confidence for the new school year over the summer months.  We also welcome teens and adult students, providing many opportunities for pupils to participate in recitals, ensembles, and evaluated performances throughout the year.

Starting Supplies
At a reasonable price, many student and intermediate instrument models can be purchased or rented. Generally, new students on the saxophone or clarinet should choose reeds that are softer rather than harder to make it easier to learn. Please consult your instructor before purchasing.

Link to Brookdale Music's Website for Flute/Sax/Clarinet Rentals (Naperville)
Link to PM Music's Website for Flute/Sax/Clarinet Rentals (Aurora)

Our faculty
The Fox River Academy Woodwind faculty has outstanding credentials and years of diverse performing and teaching experience, combining to offer the best in private and ensemble musical training for any genre, from classical, rock, jazz, etc. Our woodwind faculty is friendly, fun, and professional, believing that an environment of mutual respect creates an enriching and comfortable musical learning experience.