David J. Witkowski
Sax - Clarinet - Flute
Member:
National Association for Music Education
California Music Education Association
Profile
David began playing clarinet in 1972 at age 6. A few years later, he added the saxophone and, subsequently, the flute. He has been playing professionally for 30 years and teaching privately for over 20 years. While attending Temple University, he had the opportunity to study with many of the finest performers and instructors in the Philadelphia region.
Due to his interest in classical music and jazz, his teachers included members of the Philadelphia Orchestra (Larry Wagner - Clarinet, Angelo DiMatteos - Flute) and some of the most well-respected jazz players on the East Coast. (Larry McKenna - Sax, Mike Natale - Trumpet, Bob Shilling - Jazz Theory/Arranging). David began a successful career as a freelance musician, performing in various venues in New York City, Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area.
In addition, he taught privately in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. Since relocating to Sacramento in 1999, he has continued to perform as a freelance musician in Northern California while maintaining a private teaching schedule in the Sacramento area. David’s students participate in the area’s concert/jazz bands, honor bands, community bands, and the Sacramento Youth Symphony.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching style utilizes the Socratic method of creating a dialogue between teacher and student. I mold my teaching to match each student’s unique learning style and personality. I teach from a wide range of sources, not just one book. Because of this, my students are exposed to my different styles and genres, which allows us to discuss the history of the music, the composers, and the places where the music comes from. I constantly challenge and encourage my students, allowing them to explore and add to the curriculum with their requests for songs or new styles. My students feed off my love of music and the fun I’m having in teaching them.
Contact Information
David Witkowski
916-276-0841
djwmusic@mac.com