Woodwind Lessons in Washington, DC
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Our Approach to Woodwind Lessons
At Middle C Music, individuality is celebrated. The unique experiences and goals of each of our students drives customized programming that offers a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Combined with enthusiasm and encouragement, our distinct approach to music education allows students to achieve the highest levels of musical expression.
Woodwinds are equally distinct and beautiful instruments. Learning to play the flute, clarinet or saxophone is no easy feat, but many students find that, with the help of an experienced clarinet teacher, they can progress quickly. Clarinets and saxophones are complex instruments and the instructors at Middle C Music are well-versed in technique, execution, and the various intricacies of each instrument. They are excited to pass on their experience and knowledge to musicians who want to master a new instrument.
Our woodwind teachers come from different backgrounds, including professional performers, credentialed instructors, and graduates of some of the most prestigious programs around the country. With their experience and dedication, any student can master instruments like the clarinet or saxophone.
Woodwind Lessons Should Be Fun!
Woodwind instruments produce rich, expressive, and emotionally impactful music in both solo and group settings. At Middle C Music, we teach a variety of woodwind instruments – including clarinet, and saxophone – each of which plays a critical role in bringing to life the music we know and love.
Regardless of your specific instrument, one thing is consistent across all of our woodwind offerings: fun! Simply put, we want all of our students to LOVE their music lessons. Middle C Music’s experienced staff blends a high standard of music education with a creative, student-focused approach that gives students space to discover and nurture their passion for music – while having fun along the way.
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
We believe strong fundamentals are key to providing a strong foundation for a musician’s growth. At Middle C Music, you’ll learn the key elements of strong woodwind technique including breath support, voicing, embouchure, articulation, finger technique, and posture.
Understanding these necessities will help you maintain control of the tone and quality of your music.
Our lessons offer an enriching, well-rounded music education that pairs fundamentals with a strong foundation in music literacy. From sight reading and ear training to music theory and history, our instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and extensive teaching résumés to foster an optimal student experience at Middle C Music.
We Care About Your Musical Interests
Every student is unique and their instruction should be, too. The talented team at Middle C Music is committed to helping each student pursue their musical interest at a pace that works for them. We’re passionate about all things music and all things success!
Do you dream of becoming the next great jazz soloist? Earning a spot in your high school band? Turning a simple intrigue into a hobby? As our teachers get to know your goals, we tailor our lessons accordingly. Both beginner and advanced students will be challenged and inspired on their musical journey at Middle C Music.
Our Woodwind Teachers:
Our saxophone and clarinet instructors are proficient on both instruments so a student can start with clarinet lessons if they wish and switch to saxophone lessons without having to change instructors. Instructors actively perform in bands and ensembles and also as soloists.

Jack Irby
Woodwinds & Piano
Available Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thurdays Jack is a native of Richmond, Virginia. At age 11, Jack picked up the saxophone for his middle school band and has not put it down

Jason Russo
Clarinet
Teaching on Saturdays only. Passionate about music from a young age, Jason began his studies at the age of eight on the acoustic guitar. Quickly developing an interest in woodwind instruments, Jason

Gene Isayev
Saxophone and Flute
Teaching on Tuesdays Gene graduated from State Music College of Grodno (Belarus), with degree in flute performance, flute teaching and band conducting. After playing flute for two years with Mozhaiski Military Academy
Lesson Pricing
WEEKLY 30 MINUTE LESSON
$220
Month
30 minute lessons are great for learning the basics and building a strong foundation.
WEEKLY 60 MINUTE LESSON
$440
Month
Longer lessons, perfect for motivated, intermediate or advanced musicians.
What you can expect
1. Tell us about your musical goals.
2. Match with one of our expert instructors.
3. Play music! Parents get progress reports.
Common Questions

Laura Walther | Parent
“My daughter started taking piano (virtually) during Covid with Mandy Brown and she loves it!!! We are so impressed with the progress she has made this year and the joy of hearing the piano playing in the house. Plus the staff at the Middle C store is incredibly welcoming and helpful – buying her new music is a breeze.”