Experience Summary
Instruments: Beginning Clarinet, Beginning to Advanced Saxophone, and Jazz Improvisation
Qualifications: B.A. Music Performance on Saxophone from the University of West Florida; studied Jazz Improvisation at the Georgia State University. In addition to teaching private lessons for the last 12 years, Rodney has also instructed students in saxophone, clarinet and jazz improvisation at the West Florida School of Music, Spivey School of Music, Booker T. Washington High School and is currently teaching in Pensacola at the Pensacola Music Company, Playground Music Center and he has a studio in Niceville and at UpBeat Music in Crestview Florida. Rodney is currently seeking to expand his lesson studio.
Background: Rodney began studying music at the age of 11 when introduced to the saxophone during middle school band. Since then, he has avidly studied a wide variety of instruments and music theories. Although well-versed in classical theory, it is jazz that he truly loves to perform and study. In particular, he enjoys pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz. He has performed before thousands in the southeast region, and tries to inspire others to learn and reach their fullest musical potential. Rodney also performs at various events including weddings, private parties, restaurants, and clubs.
Accomplishments: Rodney records group and solo performances in numerous bands. He has played with several local musicians and bands including Shades of Blue, Rick Reynolds Group, Sounding Rick, DeJa Vue, Sonic Groove from Atlanta, the Eastside Westside Players, Amy Hart, Pat Pritchard, Tom Latinser, Shades, Desert Jinn, Favor, Reed Waddle, Chief Soul Kitchen, Lawrence Young, P.J. Young, Jason Gaines, Sal Salaz, Chris Gardner, Jordache Grant, Ed Lanier and Joe Occhipinti. At UWF, Rodney coordinated the Jazz Combo and Saxophone Quartet. At Georgia State, Rodney was lead alto in the Wind Ensemble and also ran a Jazz Combo and Saxophone Quartet.