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Flute, clarinet and saxophone lessons in Turramurra

Private flute, clarinet and saxophone lessons in Turramurra for children, teens and adults. Build a good tone, read with confidence, keep up in school band and prepare for AMEB exams if you want them.

A clarinet resting on sheet music

What a woodwind lesson looks like

Embouchure and breathingHow to shape the mouth around the mouthpiece and blow a steady stream of air. A good embouchure and breath support are what turn squeaks into a warm, even tone.
Setting up and carePutting the instrument together and cleaning it after playing, plus choosing, wetting and rotating reeds on clarinet and saxophone. Small habits that keep the sound good and the instrument healthy.
Fingers and readingFingerings, scales and articulation such as tonguing and slurs, with note reading built in from the start so new music never feels out of reach.
Band music and solo piecesClassical, jazz and band repertoire. Students can bring their school band part to work through it with the teacher.

Flute, clarinet and saxophone lessons are taught in Turramurra, at head office (Level 1, 1319 to 1321 Pacific Highway) or Studio 2 (Level 1, 1273 Pacific Highway, corner of Rohini Street), and we'll confirm your studio at booking.

Our flute, clarinet and saxophone teachers

Our woodwind teachers include Sydney Conservatorium of Music trained players and an award winning flautist, and between them cover band, orchestral, classical and jazz repertoire as well as composition. They enjoy working with young players.

Meet everyone at ISM
For school band players Bring your band folder We'll work through the tricky passages so rehearsals feel easier.

School band, then AMEB if you want it

Lots of flute, clarinet and saxophone students first pick up the instrument through a school band program. Private lessons give them what a full rehearsal can't: someone listening closely to their tone, fixing fingerings and helping them read ahead.

Students who want a formal goal can work through the AMEB grades on flute, clarinet or saxophone. The teacher chooses pieces, technical work and aural practice to suit the grade, and the office looks after entries and emails you the dates and results.

Flute, clarinet and saxophone questions

Should my child learn flute, clarinet or saxophone?
All three are great choices. Flute has no reed and a bright, clear sound that suits orchestra, band and solo music. Clarinet and saxophone share a lot, including reeds, similar fingerings and reading. Clarinet suits classical, orchestral and band music. Saxophone is at home in jazz, pop and concert band. Many players learn one and add the other later.
Do we need our own instrument?
Yes, so the student can practise between lessons. Many music shops offer rental programs if you're not ready to buy. If you aren't sure what to get, mention it when you book and the teacher can help you choose.
Which reeds should we buy?
This one is for clarinet and saxophone, since flute has no reed. Beginners usually start on a softer reed and move to a firmer one as the embouchure gets stronger. Keep a few on hand, because reeds chip and wear out. The teacher will tell you when to change strength.
My child just started band at school. Can lessons help?
Yes. A band director has a whole ensemble to look after, so one on one time fills the gaps in tone, fingering and reading. Bring the band folder along and the teacher will work through the hard bars.
Can woodwind students sit AMEB exams?
Yes, on flute, clarinet or saxophone, from Preliminary through the grades. Exams are optional and only suggested when the student is ready. See AMEB exam preparation.
Is there a minimum age?
We don't set a minimum age for private lessons. Younger children need enough reach and breath for the instrument, and the teacher will give you an honest view at the free trial.

Many woodwind players also take piano lessons for harmony and reading. Younger children can build listening and rhythm in our group classes first.

No obligation

Your first woodwind lesson is on us

Thirty minutes with a flute, clarinet or saxophone teacher, free. Choose a time on the live schedule and bring your instrument and reeds if you have them. Fees and your weekly time are confirmed at the trial.

1Choose the instrument and the student's age
2Pick a free time from the live schedule
3Meet your teacher and start the following week

Group class places aren't shown online. Tell us your child's age and we'll find the right class.

LIVE AVAILABILITY FROM THE ISM SCHEDULE
Book a free woodwind trial Thirty minutes on flute, clarinet or saxophone with one of our woodwind teachers. Book on the live schedule or ring 02 9983 9460.