Francisco N.
About the teacher
I started playing saxophone at the age of six at the Orfeão de Leiria Conservatory of Music, where I studied classical saxophone before discovering my passion for jazz. In 2020, I completed the Jazz Instrumentalist Course at the Jobra Conservatory of Music, an important step that strengthened my decision to pursue a career as a jazz musician and teacher.
In 2024, I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Saxophone from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. During those years, I had the opportunity to learn from world-class teachers such as Jasper Blom, Simon Rigter, Ben van Gelder, and Benjamin Herman, while also collaborating with many international musicians and performing in different countries. My time in Amsterdam gave me a strong foundation, both musically and personally, and confirmed my passion for sharing jazz through performance and teaching.
My connection to the jazz tradition grew even stronger during my trips to New York City in 2022 and 2023. There I had the chance to learn directly from legendary saxophonists such as George Coleman, Jimmy Halperin, Grant Stewart, and Harry Allen. These experiences had a deep impact on my playing and musical vision, giving me a more personal sound and a closer connection to the roots of jazz. Today, I bring these experiences into my teaching.
About the lessons
For me, teaching is always about the student. Everyone learns in a different way, so I adapt the lessons to what each person needs and enjoys. With some students we might focus more on sound, technique, and building a strong foundation, while with others the focus can be on improvisation and developing their own musical expression.
I also believe that listening to music is just as important as playing it. That’s why I often recommend recordings and artists that I think can inspire the students, not only to improve their playing but also to discover the joy and beauty of jazz.
Most of all, I want the lessons to be motivating and fun. A place where students feel free to learn, ask questions, and grow as musicians while enjoying the process.