Meet 2025 Teacher of the Year for Saxophone Andrew Larsen

We spoke with 2025 Lessonface Saxophone Teacher of the Year, Andrew Larsen, about his journey as a performer and educator. In this Q&A, Andrew shares what first drew him to the saxophone, how he creates a student-centered and supportive teaching environment, and the mindset he encourages students to adopt as they build both skill and confidence. He also discusses the gear and practice tools he finds most effective, offers practical guidance on goal-setting, and emphasizes patience, consistency, and a genuine love of music as the foundation for long-term growth on the saxophone.
 

What drew you to learning the saxophone?

I have played saxophone for over 20 years and taught for 14. I would consider saxophone the “secret favorite” of many people who choose to learn an instrument.

How would you describe your teaching studio? 

I teach students of all levels, from seasoned professionals to complete beginners. My studio is all about teaching students according to their needs, and helping them foster a joy and love of music they can carry with them the rest of their lives. 

How do you ensure you are a good mind frame for teaching in terms of your teaching space?

A big part of staying in a good frame of mind is seeing things from the student’s perspective. How do they feel about the things you’re teaching them? What is it that they need to hear most during the lesson?

If you could gift your students one piece of automatic knowledge or ability about the saxophone, what would it be?

I would give them the gift of love - love of music, love of self, and love of creation. Like any instrument, the saxophone requires an immense amount of discipline to play well, and it is easy to get frustrated and hate the journey rather than enjoying the beauty of gradual progress and valuable lessons.

What are some of your most indispensable pieces of gear? 

My setup on alto is a YAS-875 EX with a Meyer 6M mouthpiece and LaVoz Medium reeds. On tenor I play an Antigua ProOne with a MacSax FJIV 10 * and Rigotti Gold 2 1/2 reeds. I don’t necessarily recommend that gear for my students, but I do believe it’s important to play on gear that works. For example, a Selmer of Yamaha student horn with a J&D Hite Premiere is an excellent setup for a beginning student. 

Are there apps / texts / other resources you often recommend?

Two of my favorite apps to recommend are iReal Pro and Drum Genius. Both are indispensable for jazz musicians. I recommend the Rubank method books for all my beginning students (Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced) and the Klose and Ferling etude books for my more advanced students.

Do you have guidance for goal-setting for saxophone students, or generally?

Find ways to trick yourself into excellence. Practice doesn’t have to be something you sit and do for three hours every day. It might just be doing finger drills during a commercial break or practicing for 15 minutes before you go grocery shopping. The key to success is consistency of effort, not volume.

Is there anything else you would like to share with potential students about the saxophone?

Be patient with yourself. The joy of playing is the most important thing. No matter what level you play at, make that the central aspect of your journey.

If you are interested in learning more about Andrew or would like to book a lesson with him, please visit his Lessonface profile here. 

Also, be sure to check out all of Lessonface’s 2025 Teachers of the Year here!