Clarinet Lessons in Northfield, IL

Instruments: Clarinet

I have been teaching formally for the past 17 years in university, high school, and community music school settings. I have taught students at all levels of ability from highly diverse cultural backgrounds. The most exciting moment for me is when a student catches on to a new concept and overcomes a fear or limitation. I try to incorporate each student's outside interests into the study of music, relating everything from computer science, history, skateboarding, you-name-it to the practice of music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I like to start beginning students with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. When students move on to other materials, I draw upon their interests and the genre in which they are playing to find materials. I encourage classical students to listen to the repertoire so they can bring in pieces that they want to work on. I use a variety of method books with my jazz students, depending on the specific goals of the lesson, but I also place emphasis on ear training and transcription. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My teaching journey began at Wunderlich Intermediate School in Klein, Texas, where I began teaching beginner clarinet players. I loved getting new students excited about music, and helping them have fun while they learn! I've followed this passion all the way to Chicago, where I still teach beginning students at Central Middle School in Tinley Park. Since then, I've also taught more advanced students at both the middle and high school levels. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My teaching experience dates back to my high school years, 8 years ago, when I was a section leader for my marching band and I got to teach marching routines and lead sectionals for my section. Later, at my undergraduate degree, I got hired at three different middle and high schools to teach private lessons and give master classes. Since leaving Texas and moving to Chicago, I haven’t been able to teach due to my busy school schedule, but I am very excited to start up my studio again with Musika! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I typically divide my lessons into quarters so that the first part is just scale work. The second part is scale patterns and technique. The third portion is prepared materials, and the final portion is listening. I bring an Ipod with close to 750,000 songs on it for kids to choose pieces featuring their own instruments for inspirational purposes. I find that listening can be just as informative as pressing down keys:) Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

Beginning or advanced, all students require constant attention and care to their fundamentals. Scales, long tones, and articulation excercises should be addressed at every lesson, allowing a simple and clear opportunity to discuss these issues. Simultaneously, from the very beginning students should be given the chance to make music. No music, no excitement! It is important to maintain good communication with students about their hopes and desires for their art. Read More