James Rawlinson Saxophone Clarinet Flute Teacher

James is very relaxed and friendly, and on my first lesson I was at ease talking with him. He was very accomodating when I explained my musical goals and has a plethora of materials/suggestions that was happy to share with me to help. I play both clarinet and saxophone - James is very talented and experienced on both so I was able to get a lot out of the lessons I had with him. Thank-you, James :)

I am a trumpet/flugehorn player. I primarily asked James for lessons as I am interested in developing improvisation skills and as far as I can tell James is one of the sweetest" jazz improvisers in the area.James also came across as someone who I could respect not only for his obvious musical knowledge and ability but also because he would be prepared to occasionally put me right when I start to slack.I find James very supportive and also prepared to admit when I might need a little help elsewhere (I am a trumpet player after all)I come from a brass band background so am a little too reliant on the black dots

James is an excellent teacher, whom I would have no hesitation recommending to others - in fact, I have! James took me through my Trinity Jazz sax exams to grade 8 and now he is very patiently teaching me the clarinet. He is a brilliant teacher for both children and the more mature student"

I have been having tenor saxophone lessons with James for just over 3 years. James has pointed me in the right direction at each stage of my development and has enabled me to understand the key aspects of music theory, music practice and saxophone technique. We are now working on grade 5 pieces and more advanced theory. The lessons are always productive and usually mixed with humour and new challenges.

I have only just started learning the flute but feel that already James has taught me a lot. He is very easy to get on with and I really look forward to my lessons which are always very informative and enjoyable.

James is a versatile and encouraging teacher of both adults and children. He has a plethora of performing experience and a working knowledge of the profession, which he shares with his students.My son began clarinet with James aged 8 and is now 12. He has so far achieved Grade 6 Classical Clarinet and Grade 5 Jazz Clarinet and is raring to go further.I would recommend James, whether you are interested in the classical style or exploring the realms of jazz and improvisation, or both!

I have been taking jazz saxophone lessons with James for about fifteen years, since I took up playing saxophone in my 40s.He is an excellent teacher and an outstanding musician. One to one lessons are always fun, engaging and stimulating. He gently but consistently pushes the standard upwards, which means I can never get bored or complacent.He has taught me to sight read music, which I never thought I would manage. He uses a wide variety of teaching techniques, advises me on books, sheet music, backing tracks and recordings. As well as individual lessons he has encouraged me to take part in small ensemble and big band lessons, including participation in weekend workshops, music festivals and some live gigs.James is very well organised, punctual and great at keeping in touch. He answers all my questions promptly and has also offered very good advice on purchasing instruments, basic saxophone maintenance and specialists to contact for more complicated repair work.As well as teaching, he runs some very entertaining jazz/swing/dance bands who do regular gigs. His improvisation style is strong, melodic and accessible, more Cannonball Adderley than John Coltrane.Certainly deserves five star rating.

I’ve been having lessons with James for roughly 8 years on and off. James has always been very encouraging and makes me feel like I’m an excellent saxophonist. As an adult learner I have always felt really comfortable with James and he always gives me confidence and constructive criticism. He is always happy for me to ask questions and has a lot of patience. He understands being an adult learner I sometimes have other commitments and priorities and is always happy for me to stop and start. I’ve recently moved to York and not found a teacher as good, each time I visit Dorset I continue to book in a lesson. Highly recommend James as a saxophone teacher whether your beginner or what to pick up again as adult learner.

Been having lessons with James for 4 months and can see a massive improvement with my technique. I relocated and found James and he has been the best teacher, always made me feel comfortable and as if I'm a brilliant clarinetist. 100% recommend to anyone of any age. Lessons are always fun and i learn a lot. He gave me confidence to do my diploma which i will be doing soon hopefully. Thank you James :)

James has been my sax tutor since June 2021 - I lived north of London prior to that.He has been excellent for my playing ability and my grasp of music theory is also improving.We have concentrated on alto sax so far but at some point we will include tenor as well.Whilst James has a clear plan for what I need to do, he's very happy to take into account what I'm aiming to achieve and also my music preferences.I really enjoy my lessons and always look forward to the next one. An added bonus is his good sense of humour.If you are looking for a tutor, I'd have no hesitation at all in recommending James.Kevan Ward