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Joe Wagner
SAXOPHONE/ FLUTE TEACHER
Joe Wagner, originally from Dallas Texas, is a saxophonist, arranger and composer currently located in the Boston area. He began playing music at age 7 and performing professionally at the age of 16. Joe graduated Summa Cum Laude from Berklee College of Music in May 2024 with a double major in saxophone performance and jazz composition.
During his time at Berklee, Joe studied with musicians such as George Garzone, Godwin Louis, Ed Tomassi, Greg Hopkins, Steven Feifke, Ayn Inserto, and many others who have been influential in shaping his personal sound. Joe is currently attending New England Conservatory, pursuing his masters degree in jazz composition. Joe is not only an active performer and composer; he also has a passion for teaching. Back in Dallas, prior to attending Berklee, Joe taught students of all ages and backgrounds which allowed him at a young age to develop methods and techniques of teaching that offer flexibility for the individual student’s needs. For the past two years, Joe was a lead tutor within Berklee College of Music’s nationally accredited Core Music Tutoring program, providing weekly one-on-one sessions to students for courses in ear training, theory, composition and arranging. As a tutor, Joe has also engaged in professional development sessions which enhanced and refined his teaching approach and styles.
“When teaching students one-on-one, I strive to make my approach individualized. Every single student comes in with different skills, musical tastes, goals, personalities, and ways in which they learn best. To be effective as a teacher, I adapt and alter how I present topics and ideas in ways that allow my students the easiest path to understand those concepts and achieve their musical and personal goals. Whether we are working on playing or composing in the jazz, RnB, funk, blues, classical or any other style, I ensure that my students are comfortable, enjoying what they are doing, and always growing musically.” "In the few years that Joe has studied with me, he has proven to be both a strong improviser and writer. His character is portrayed in his music. His humble view of life is shown in every note that he plays." - George Garzone