Come study with me!

My goal as a teacher is to give my students the tools to find their own success. Not every student will have the same voice, and I believe finding what sparks joy can help students find their own niche in the music world. Technique, tonal imagination, and musical interpretation are essential tools on the journey to finding a personal voice in music.

Now accepting new students!

If you are interested in studying with me privately in person or online, please fill out the form below. You can check out Valdosta State University’s music program here! https://www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts/music/

Testimonials

Wilson Poffenberger is an experienced, kind and thoughtful teacher, effective at problem solving and at coaching traditional and contemporary extended repertoire with ease, dedication and expertise. Wilson loves people and this wonderful quality shines through all he does as a highly skilled artist/teacher.
— James Umble, Professor of Saxophone at Youngstown State University
Wilson Poffenberger is one of the most versatile musicians and pedagogues I have ever met. He is an incredibly talented performer and saxophonist with a unique and impactful voice. His deep musicianship radiates throughout everything that he does as a soloist, artist, collaborator, and pedagogue. As an exceptional performer and educator in both traditional and contemporary classical and jazz styles, Wilson Poffenberger is truly a force to be reckoned with. On top of all of this, he is also incredibly kind, understanding, and patient, and it has been a privilege and honor to work and collaborate with him.
— Benjamin Nichols, Instructor of Saxophone at Brigham Young University
Studying with Wilson was one of the highlights of my college career. His style of teaching is fantastic. Working with Wilson, my confidence playing the saxophone increased significantly. His constant support allowed me to believe I could tackle even his most demanding challenges. Inspiring even beyond his own talents, Wilson goes above and beyond to encourage the students he teaches to achieve the highest of their capabilities.
— Destinee Feliciano
I have wanted to play a saxophone for many years but was nervous to start having never played a woodwind instrument before. My hesitation increased when I discovered that my rural location and restrictions due to COVID-19 meant that I would be required to participate in remote, rather than in-person, lessons. Your patience with my first fumbling attempts, your constant encouragement and the many insightful tips you’ve provided have given me the confidence to try and to make continual progress. I am still pleasantly surprised at the progress I’ve made with your help, which encourages me to devote more time to practice than I otherwise would. Thanks a million.
— Steve Wilson
Wilson’s teaching and mentorship have been invaluable in my musical journey. Whether it’s getting musical advice, hearing him play, or formal lesson-style feedback, Wilson knows how to help players of all levels grown in their individual love of music and playing saxophone.
— Nick Ortiz
One of the biggest strengths of his teaching is he knows how to teach students how to practice and learn independently. Being a beginner in jazz, I remember Wilson giving me some scary looking repertoire and at first glance I though “no way will I be able to play this.” But Wilson knew how to guide me through the piece by breaking it into small chunks, focusing on the important notes and other very useful techniques. In essence, he taught me how to practice correctly and I was amazed by the end result. And Wilson always teaches with heart-he teaches his students to enjoy the music.
— Hannah Gibes