Larry Teal

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Larry Teal (1905-1984) was a noted saxophone teacher.

Teal became the first full-time professor of saxophone at any American university when he was appointed to the faculty of the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in 1953. He remained the professor of saxophone there until he retired in 1974, at which time he was given the title "professor emeritus."

During his 21 years at the university, Teal taught over 100 college saxophone students, many of whom went on to become successful teachers and performers. In this way he had an unusual degree of influence over the direction and quality of classical saxophone teaching in America.

His students included:

• Donald Sinta, who succeeded him as professor of saxophone at the University of Michigan
• Steven Mauk, professor of saxophone at Ithaca College
• Patrick Meighan, now professor of saxophone at Florida State University
• John Sampen, now professor of saxophone at Bowling Green State University
• Joe Henderson
• John Nichol, professor of saxophone at Central Michigan University
• Jerry D. Luedders, professor of music and saxophone at California State University, Northridge

Teal wrote several books for use by saxophone students and teachers, including:

• The Art of Saxophone Playing (1963) ISBN 0-874870-57-7
• Melodies for the Young Saxophonist
• The Saxophonist's Workbook (need ISBN)