The Montclair Music Studio is proud to introduce woodwind, guitar and piano instructor, Dane Alexander.
Born in Florham Park, NJ, he has studied music for over twenty years. Dane received a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Jazz & Contemporary Music with a concentration in Sax Performance from the New School University. Dane believes that building a strong foundation and understanding of how to practice is key in developing musicianship.
Dane teaches saxophone, clarinet, and flute. He is currently accepting students on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Getting to Know Dane…
What brought on your interest in music?
When I was very young, I would sit at the family piano and just pick out tunes by ear. That eventually led me to take formal lessons. I remember hearing Miles Davis’ album “Kinda Blue” and thinking that was some really cool stuff! I was sort of obsessed with it as a kid and still am today.
Did you play as a child? If so, what instruments did you play?
I started taking piano lessons with the church organist at about 7yrs of age. Later in elementary school I began clarinet lessons and played in the school band. That was a pivotal moment for me, because I really wanted to play the drums, however one of my [well-meaning] teachers dissuaded me. I tried playing the alto saxophone, but at the time I was too small to even hold it up! I continued playing both piano and clarinet until I reached high school, when I finally took up the saxophone.
Was your family involved in music?
My mom sings in church choirs and my dad is a self-taught guitarist. they both have careers outside of music, but even today it’s an integral part of their lifestyles. My two younger brothers took music lessons; one of them eventually pursued a career in audio technology.
Have you participated in any extra curricular organizations or music clubs?
Outside of high orchestra and marching band, I played in the pit band during school musicals. In college I played in a number of different school-sponsored groups. Notable ones are the New School Afro-beat big band, and the R&B Revue directed by Bernard Perdie.
What other types of instruments are in your repertoire?
I play sax, flute, and clarinet nowadays, and focus on teaching woodwinds. However I can also play guitar, piano, bass, and drums, but mostly in my spare time. I can whistle well too, but don’t know how or why.
Have you played at other venues?
I play mostly in the NYC metro area and Philadelphia. In NYC, I play at The Bitter End, Fontana’s, Sullivan Hall (formerly Lion’s Den), Santo’s Party House…the list goes on. In New Jersey: Hat City Kitchen, DLV Lounge, Tierney’s, Mexicali Blues, and a bunch of others.
Any favorite hobbies other than music?
I like to ski and play golf. I also try to cook when I have the time.