Bands to hire duos to Big band. Small groups ideal for pubs, bars, hospitality
I play tenor and soprano saxophone. I have been a sax tutor for twenty years, and have recently retired from teaching. This gives me more time to concentrate on performing in different ensembles.
I am Music Director of Calderdale Big Band based in Ripponden.
I also play in a number of different small groups:
My latest group is the Geoff Atherton Quartet. We play a mix of standards, bossas & modern jazz.
Rio Revisited is a vocal orientated group playing easy listening latin and Brazilian music.
The Atherton/Key Duo is a sax & piano duo playing easy jazz in small bars & pubs.
See “My music” for further details, sound files etc.
I hold an ATCL Recital Diploma in Saxophone, I am CRB checked (Sept.2020) and am fully insured.
Carol Hayward
Geoff Atherton is a tonic as a sax teacher. I always leave my lessons feeling better than when I arrived, and he encouraged and got me through from zero to Grade 5 in about 3 years. Definitely a good retirement investment for me!
Noel Wood
I have found learning the saxophone with Geoff to be a fantastic way to switch off from the pressures of work and the social aspects involved in learning an instrument are fun and enjoyable.
Tracy Greenleigh
Geoff is a fantastic teacher. His patience knows no bounds and is matched by his professionalism and knowledge of music.
Julie Jones (Mother)
Geoff is patient and enthusiastic and clearly enjoys teaching as well as playing. Alicia has made fantastic progress; passed Grade 2 with distinction.
David and Jenny Whitehead
Alex, 13, has progressed really well and has exceptional appreciation for jazz and improvisation, which he has learnt from Geoff’s commitment and dedication to the instrument.
Mitchell Sutcliffe
Geoff started teaching me when I was 9 years old. I couldn’t read music and was an absolute beginner. I’ve now just passed my Jazz Grade 4 and feel more confident in playing with others.
Jackie Barrow
I have always loved the sound of the saxophone and was lent one by my brother. However, having reached the age of sixty without ever having learnt to read music or to play a musical instrument, I needed to find a teacher prepared to take on a challenge!
Helen Vines
Geoff Atherton is an excellent music teacher. My son, now 14 has been learning alto sax with Geoff for three years. Geoff’s lessons are fun and productive and my son comes away challenged but not overwhelmed and keen to practice the new techniques/pieces he has been taught. My son has progressed more than a grade a year under Geoff’s tuition but more importantly for me as a parent, he is never cross, never shouts, never demeans. Also he is great value for money!