Declan S.

Locations
In-Home:
Manhattan, Brooklyn
Teacher Studio:
No
Virtual:
Yes

Ages and Levels Taught
Saxophone: 10+, Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced
Drums: 10+, Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced
Clarinet: 10+, Beginning, Intermediate
Piano: 4+, Beginning, Intermediate
Logic Pro X: 14+, Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced

Styles: Classical, Pop, Rock, Jazz, Ear Training, Music Theory, Composition, Improvisation, Electronic Music

Hailing from Brooklyn, Declan is a multi-instrumentalist and composer who artfully blends genres to craft an incendiary fusion of sound. Studying Jazz Performance at New England Conservatory and Studio Production at SUNY Purchase, his adeptness with digital production and recording techniques, coupled with his instrumental virtuosity, yields a unique digital-acoustic amalgamation.

Declan's performances have graced venues like Monterey Jazz Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, Symphony Space, and The Jazz Gallery. He was also a 2023 recipient of the Composers Now IMPACT Award. He's released 9 singles and 3 EPs since 2017 and has collaborated with diverse artists from Henry Threadgill to emerging talents like Mavi and Cisco Swank.

Co-leading the band "More Better" for nearly 8 years, they’ve released two albums, and performed at venues like The Jazz Gallery and JCAL. He's made his mark as an Audio Engineer at The Jazz Gallery and BRAC, handling sound for artists like Immanuel Wilkins, Sullivan Fortner, Jason Moran, Roscoe Mitchell, and many more.

Declan also works side-by-side with Henry Threadgill’s as his assistant, assuming a multifaceted role handling audio engineering, EWI/Saxophone, and additional odds and ends for Mr. Threadgill. Declan has worked intimately on projects "One", "The Other One”, “BOTH”,  and “Listen Ship”.

Declan’s teaching approach is student-centered and flexible, with a focus on meeting each learner where they are while also encouraging them to explore new ground. He begins by identifying what excites a student about music—whether it is a favorite song, band, or simply the joy of playing—and then builds lessons around those interests to keep learning meaningful and engaging. For students who are unsure of their focus, he provides structured guidance by assigning material suited to their skill level while gradually working toward broader musical goals. His passion lies in inspiring others through the music that inspires him, and he is dedicated to helping every student achieve their musical aspirations.

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