Saxophone Lessons
The Dennis Frayne Music Studios boasts world-class wind, reed, and brass instrumental instructors who teach saxophone, including alto sax, tenor sax, soprano sax, baritone, bass, and contrabass sax, and more - there are many! In addition to their education, degrees and credentials, and teaching careers, these teachers perform regularly and play with various California ensembles ranging from jazz bands to symphony orchestras.
We offer individual private lessons as well as small group lessons, combos, and band and orchestra ensembles. Limited space is available. Please contact us for more information or schedule an introductory music lesson.
Saxophone lessons the way you want them.
"Watching my daughter pick up the saxophone and really fall in love with it has been amazing. When she started lessons at Dennis Frayne Music Studios, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but her teacher made everything so approachable and fun. She’s gained so much confidence—not just in her playing, but in herself. Now she’s excited to practice and even tries out jazz solos on her own! It’s been wonderful to see her grow into a musician who truly enjoys what she’s doing. We’re so grateful for the patient, encouraging teachers who make this journey such a positive experience."
— Melissa R., Laguna Niguel Mom
Individual Saxophone Lessons (Private Instruction)
There are many reasons why students and families prefer individual music lessons on their wind, reed, and brass instruments. The three biggest advantages involve one-on-one teacher instruction, curriculum, pacing, and schedule customization, and preparation for outside activities such as recitals, exams (e.g., Music Teacher Association of California Certificate of Merit), special performances, competitions, and auditions (e.g., for Orange County School of the Arts, the Saddleback College Applied Music Program, or university/conservatory entrance requirements).
One-on-one Teacher Instruction - students receive individual private instruction from their teacher. The entire lesson time and all of the teacher’s attention are devoted to one student.
Curriculum, Pacing, and Schedule Customization - teachers have the flexibility to tailor the curriculum and pacing of instruction to each individual student. For example, additional saxophone pieces can be added to the sequencing, substitute pieces, or pieces of special interest to the student. A student who loves a particular style or genre of music can focus more on that music in lessons. In addition, there are likely more day and time options available for individual lessons (ensemble days and times may be predetermined according to the course catalog and class schedules).
Preparation for Outside Activities - students who wish to play non-standard repertoire at recitals (such as themed music) or want/need to learn pieces for special performances, competitions, or auditions can do so more easily by taking individual music lessons. Also, students who wish to participate in exams such as MTAC CM and others can get the dedicated instruction they need during their regular lessons (students in ensembles can do these things but must take the extra weekly class rather than do the work in their group setting.)
Ensemble Music
(Classroom Instruction)
There are many reasons why students and families prefer ensembles or small group music lessons. The three biggest advantages involve affordability, the pacing of instruction, and the social aspect of learning with others and interacting with peers.
Affordability - ensembles and group music lessons cost less. There are some variables, but the average cost of ensembles and group music lessons is about 50% of the cost of private lessons.
Pacing of Instruction - ensembles and group music lessons encourage students to keep on pace. Students in the ensemble or class move through the curriculum together, and, with guidance and encouragement from the teacher, create a learning environment that is supportive, nurturing, collaborative, and mutually rewarding. Students get very comfortable playing in front of others, and always have a small audience to practice performing for, which stimulates the development and improves progress.
Social Aspect - many students enjoy learning with others and interacting with peers. We strive to place students into appropriate age groupings, and in these learning environments, close bonds and lasting friendships often develop. Students have more opportunities to play duets and make music together as an ensemble, which can help with rhythm, blend, and teamwork, and better prepare them for school music such as band, choir, and orchestra.
Playing saxophone in high school can significantly enhance a student’s college application by showcasing dedication, discipline, and creativity—qualities that universities highly value. Mastering an instrument like the saxophone requires consistent practice, time management, and perseverance, all of which translate well to academic success. Participating in school bands, jazz ensembles, or solo performances demonstrates teamwork and leadership skills, while also highlighting the student’s ability to balance extracurriculars with their studies. Admissions officers often look for well-rounded candidates, and strong musical involvement can set an applicant apart from the crowd.
Beyond the application, playing saxophone prepares students for the social and intellectual challenges of university life. It builds confidence through public performances and fosters critical thinking by interpreting complex music pieces. Music programs at many colleges offer scholarships and specialized opportunities for talented musicians, giving saxophone players a potential financial advantage and a chance to continue growing their skills. Ultimately, the experience gained from high school saxophone involvement helps students develop a mature, focused mindset—qualities that pave the way for success in higher education and beyond.
The saxophone, with its warm, expressive tone and wide range, effortlessly bridges genres from jazz to classical, offering a versatile and captivating voice in any musical setting.
Did You Know?… There are as many as 14 different types of Saxophones!
The saxophone, with its warm and expressive tone, is a remarkably versatile instrument that spans a broad range of musical genres, from jazz to classical. Its distinctive voice is achieved through a combination of its single-reed mouthpiece and the unique shape of its brass body, which allows for a rich, resonant sound. The saxophone family includes various sizes and keys, each bringing its own character to the music. The soprano saxophone, with its bright and penetrating sound, is often featured in solo performances and jazz ensembles, while the alto saxophone, known for its balanced and versatile tone, is a staple in both concert bands and orchestras.
The tenor saxophone, larger than the alto, offers a deeper, more resonant sound that lends itself well to both powerful solos and smooth, melodic lines. Its robust timbre makes it a popular choice in jazz bands and big bands, where it often plays a prominent role. The baritone saxophone, the largest of the standard saxophones, provides a rich, lower register that adds depth and warmth to the ensemble. Each of these saxophones contributes uniquely to the ensemble's sound, allowing musicians to explore a wide range of musical expressions and styles.
In addition to the common soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, there are also less common varieties like the bass saxophone and the contrabass saxophone, which extend the saxophone family’s range even further. The bass saxophone, with its deep, resonant tones, often adds a powerful bass line to larger ensembles, while the contrabass saxophone, one of the largest, provides an extraordinarily low register that is rarely heard but incredibly impactful. The saxophone’s diverse range of sizes and keys, combined with its expressive capabilities, makes it a captivating instrument that continues to inspire musicians across many genres and settings.
Join Us!“We love Mr. Dennis! He is so good at fostering a love for music even though it can be so technical. Our kids have had so many opportunities to play in front of people and in different venues which have helped them to be comfortable performing on demand.”
— Annie M.
