In The Studio

“Dr. Hood is an incredible saxophonist. Her work exemplifies such beautiful qualities of the saxophone and a deep emotional connection to the music. Each time I hear her play, I am filled with inspiration and passion. She has been my private mentor for the past four years. In every lesson we have, she works to push me to my full potential. She offers challenging repertoire, intricate practice methods, and various opportunities to showcase my progress. However, what makes Dr. Hood such a successful mentor is not just the way she pushes me and the rest of her students to improve. It’s the way she invests in each of her students’ individual success through both emotional and musical support. She is the force that keeps me pushing forward for more.”

• Elizabeth M., High School Student

Dr. Hood has been an absolute pleasure to have as a teacher and mentor. Her phenomenal musicianship is complemented very well by her teaching style. She is very approachable and explains things in ways that motivate me to improve. Her musicality in her playing blows me away every time I hear her play and I’m very thankful to call her one of my teachers.

• Josh D., Undergraduate Student

Having Dr. Hood as a saxophone teacher was an inspiring and insightful experience. I always left lessons feeling motivated to learn and with something new to think about. Dr. Hood values inclusivity and care for her students, and she makes a point to create a healthy environment to encourage student growth.

• Tessa S., Undergraduate Student

I have been studying with Dr. Hood for only a short time, but the impact has already been profound. Her expertise and passion for the saxophone are evident in every private lesson/quartet coaching we have. Dr. Hood has a remarkable ability to break down complex techniques into understandable steps, making learning both enjoyable and effective. Her emphasis on playing saxophone comfortably and body mapping is truly fascinating. Dr. Hood’s personalized approach and encouragement have greatly accelerated my progress in the few weeks I have been studying with her at CCM. I’m excited about the journey ahead and grateful for such an inspiring teacher.

• Corbin K., Undergraduate Student

As a student of Dr. Hood, I find that she can easily adapt to my learning needs. From technique to repertoire, I always receive great feedback, encouragement, and new goals to shoot for!

• Noah B., Undergraduate Student

I have only been working with Dr. Hood for a short time, but she always makes me feel super welcomed and comfortable in lessons. I was so nervous about collegiate level lessons, but they feel very student-centered. I learn so much in such a short amount of time. It’s also great having a female saxophone mentor after years of only really having male mentors.

• Katy C., Undergraduate Student

Dr. Hood has a keen sense of finding space for improvement in my playing, and she has an even better understanding of how to solve those issues. Her performance health focus is incredibly helpful and relevant as well!

• Walker G., Undergraduate Student

In The Classroom

(Taken from Anonymous Course Evaluations)

• [Dr. Hood] was and is easy to talk to if there is any confusion with assignments and projects. In this class there is always support and the instructor made a comfortable environment.

• [Dr. Hood] is very informative and helpful, especially to a music novice like myself.

• Dr. Hood was incredible and made the class very fun and enjoyable.

• Even though it was an elective class, it was very enjoyable and I looked forward to coming to class. Invite [Dr. Hood] back.

• Dr. Hood is very engaged and interested in her class. It keeps you alert and motivated to learn.

Online

(Taken from Anonymous Course Evaluations)

• [Professor Hood] by far was the strength of this course. Learning the content online was very difficult without a background in music and Professor Hood was so understanding it made it possible to get through the class.

• [Professor Hood] every Zoom class was always prepared early for prior questions before class started. Her energy, smile, and patience to go through the book with a small class was great. I will miss her and I wish her great success in her career.

• [Professor Hood] was fun and taught the class great. I loved every moment of the class and learning about the music. She is a wonderful teacher.

• [Professor Hood gave] clear and understanding answers, directions were clearly explained if someone misinterpreted them. Made class fun and unexpected, never knew what was going to happen next making people want to stay focused and listen.