Master Classes / Clinics

I am available throughout the school year for master classes, and clinics covering a number of subjects which I have listed below. As you will see many of these topics can apply all instruments. Therefore, I would be happy to provide appropriate master classes in larger ensemble settings for bands, festivals, etc. Handouts will be made available and can be emailed to you for copying.

As faculty at Pima College it is my pleasure to offer a free initial master class to local band programs on Fundamentals. For master classes and clinics given on any of the other topics stated below or for those given outside the Tucson metropolitan area my fee may be offset with Conn-Selmer Inc. if 30 days notice is given. Please contact me for further information at info@mikekeepe.com.

(Download a Selmer Clinic Request Form)

Note: Master Classes can be created to cover any topic to meet your specific needs. Please contact me at info@mikekeepe.com for further information.

Fundamentals: Students will learn proper Posture, Instrument and Hand Position, Breathing, Embouchure, Articulation, Reed Selection, and Long Tone Practice.

Who is your favorite Saxophonist?: Students are introduced to recordings of artists performing in the many styles available to today’s saxophone player. History, Artists, and development will be discussed. Resources and a general list of artists and recordings are made available to the students to continue their research and discover their favorite saxophonists. (A sound system with CD player will be required at the facility)

Reed Care: Students learn how to cure, burnish, and break in reeds, to assure a longer life and select reeds that have the most desirable qualities. Students will also learn how to create a Reed Box/Humidifier to better preserve their reeds.

Intonation: Students learn Voicing Techniques, how to use a Tuner, how not to use a Tuner, Listening for Pitch Waves, Pitch accuracy within a chord, and Ear Training.

Developing a Practice Routine: Students learn to develop a Warm Up Routine, Incorporate Etudes and Solo Pieces. Students will also learn how to set short term and long term goals, and schedule effective practice time in a busy daily life.

Learning Music without Mistakes: Geared towards younger students, identifying phrases, counting, singing, fingering patterns are mastered before playing. Students then learn to double check their work.

Ensemble Playing: Ensembles work on Balance, Blend, Intonation, Cueing, listening and reacting to each other musically.

Developing Your Technique: Students first learn to take stock of where they are technically. Then students set realistic goals attainable through Scale and Interval practice, Articulation exercises, learn how to achieve accuracy, then improve upon on their foundation.

Jazz Interpretation and Phrasing: Students learn how to incorporate “Back Accenting,” Swing versus Straight rhythms, Ghosting, Subtone, Scoops, and are introduced to transcribing.

Improvisation: Students will learn to Play by Ear, Transcribing, Phrasing, Scale and Chord Study, and develop lick sheets.

Audition/Performance preparation: This class can cater to specific audition circumstances such as Regional/All State, College, Chair Placements, Competitions, as well as particular performance situations. Students will learn how to prepare for these situations in a timely fashion in order to “peak” at the right time.