Music instruction: Patrick Breiner

Patrick Breiner, originally from Baltimore, received a BFA in Jazz Performance from New School University in May 2006. While at the New School he got to study with saxophone greats such as Dave Glasser, Tony Malaby, Rich Perry, and George Garzone and saxophonist/clarinetist Chris Speed. These teachers as well as pianist Armen Donelian and saxophonist Jane Ira Bloom not only shaped Patrick's playing, but also his teaching philosophy. He moved to Madison, Wisconsin in August 2008 and is rapidly making a name for himself as a competent and flexible jazz saxophonist with an appreciation for tradition and an extensive mental catalog of jazz standards.

A veteran of New York's jazz scene, Patrick has also been an active member in groups as varied as Billy Hart's "Academy" band (jazz quintet), Bing and Ruth (live ambient music), NOOK (instrumental/improvisational rock), Basement Magic (jazz trio), Sauce (classical/jazz/dance fusion), Volker Goetze's Big Band and Quintet (modern jazz), Solomon Douglas's Swingtet (swing era dance band), and Myk Freedman's Suit and Whistle Sound Band (jazz/folk/circus/klezmer).

Patrick can be heard on recordings by Bing and Ruth, NOOK, and a CD of his own solo saxophone compositions entitled Vartan Mamigonian.

Patrick has taught all ages and skill levels - from beginner saxophone and clarinet technique to advanced improvisational, ear training, and music theory concepts. He loves teaching privately as well in group settings. His teaching experience has led him to tutor college students at New School and also to teach for Montclair State University's Musical Preparatory Program.