Teaching

…what people are saying…

“Joel Gordon is a wonderful teacher.  He has a very personal touch, which helps his students understand and appreciate music for what it is.  During my time as his student, I grew as a player and a person.  I looked forward to each and every lesson with him, no matter the day”

-Jake Richardson (former student — Aerospace Engineering: Univ. of Kansas) 

“Joel Gordon was the catalyst of my passion for music.  As a young saxophonist, Mr. Gordon guided me to not only understand music, but to appreciate it as an art form.  I grew exponentially as a player during our time together and I won’t be where I am today without him!” 

-Carter Beucher (former student — Jazz Studies: Univ. of Tennessee)  

“Mr. Gordon is not only a top notch educator who knows material and technique, but he also shares and instills a love of music and excellence with his students. He went above and beyond to ensure that our teenage son received quality music instruction while balancing his busy schedule.  We found Joel to be passionate, professional, and personable.”

–Courtney Duncan (parent of all-state saxophonist – Smithville, MO)

“Joel Gordon was my son’s first private instructor when he was in 7th grade.  Joel is the reason my son took on a love of playing the saxophone.  He was able to connect on a personal level as well as teach technique, theory, etc.  My son’s confidence in playing the saxophone grew continually while taking lessons as a young student.  As a parent, I have always been impressed with Joel as a teacher.  He is knowledgeable, talented, organized, and professional.” 

-Katina Smith (parent of all-state saxophonist – Platte City, MO)

“If you want to learn and get better, work with Joel Gordon. I chose to meet with Joel virtually to improve my jazz playing and it was a wonderful experience in every way. It is rare that someone makes learning so simple and straightforward, but Joel does just that. I’m thrilled with how much I improved personally, and I cannot wait to take what I have learned and use it with my own students!”

-Ben Eades (Santo Forte Jr. High Band Director – Azle, TX)

…what people are saying…

“Simply put, Joel is a great educator and musician. He connects well with students, helps them make a large amount of growth, and his musicianship is second to none. He is one of the first people I call to work with my students.”

-Christian Pierce (Marquette HS Band Director – Chesterfield, MO)

“Joel is one of the most positive, supportive, and uplifting young educators I know.  He has worked with our middle and high school band students in a variety of settings (solo/ensemble coaching, sectionals, jam sessions, etc.).  The students and colleagues who have had a chance to work with him have nothing but the highest praise for him and the experiences he provides.  Joel truly is a gem to the profession and an inspiration to most everyone he meets.”

-Dr. Justin Doss (Liberty North HS Band Director – Liberty, MO)

“Mr. Joel Gordon has become a good musical colleague and friend.  His enthusiasm for, and interest in, the progressive KC Area Youth Jazz project remains significant to the success of this unique young artist program.  Mr. Gordon is a top notch professional artist himself and maintains the synergistic equilibrium as educator, performer and composer.  I highly recommend him and support all of his endeavors.  The future of this art form is in great hands!”

-Christopher Burnett (KC Area Youth Jazz – Leavenworth, KS)