Clarinet Lessons in West Chicago, IL

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a professional musician and educator who has lived in Chicagoland with my wife and two boys for the last 18 years. I'm originally from Columbus, Ohio and received my BM from Capital University there. From there I was Music Director for one of Royal Caribbean's ships and then I made the move to Chicago in mid-1996. From then until now I have become one of the top/first call saxophonist/woodwind musicians in the city of Chicago and have performed all over the world with musical lumaries such as Aretha Franklin, The OJays, Brian McKnight, Diana Ross, Al Jarreau, The Temps and dozens of others! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar

I have been teaching private lessons since 1979.  There is no greater joy for me than to see  that spark of learning ignite and grow as my students discover that they can make music too.  I tailor my lessons to match the goals of the student.  Many of my students aspire to become professionals and others simply want to have fun with music.  Whatever the reason a student chooses to pick up an instrument and play, my ultimate goal is to make sure that they learn the music that will inspire them to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

Every student is unique in their ability level, dedication to the instrument/craft, et. al; therefore, I cannot expect that every student will be the next Larry Combs. I do, however, expect that every student take their responsibility for practicing each week, coming prepared to lessons, and being a good student. In lessons, I am kind and personable as anyone should be, but I like to make clear my expectations right from the beginning. 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: Piano Voice Violin Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Fiddle

Communicating well as a music educator is vital for success; it is the way you communicate that reaches the students. Not every student that is in a classroom is the same; each one is unique and has their own special needs. To reach some students, it can sometimes mean trying a different kind of communication that you do not usually use. Being firmly rooted in my personal practice and purpose helps students find theirs as well. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I am patient, friendly, and always looking for ways to spark a student's passion for music and interest in the clarinet as a vehicle. I try to find something the student does well and build on it. For beginning students, I try to find simple exercises that build on previous successes. For more advanced students, I try to find new challenges and help build consistency and flexibility through a combination of basic technical exercises, challenging repertoire, exploration of new styles, and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

My goal as a teacher is to help you reach your own goals. Whether that be trying to make a career of music, or wanting to enrich your life with new skills, nothing brings me more satisfaction than to help others reach their goals. I also hope to provide my students with a community, as that is another vital aspect of music. I believe that it is important for my students to be performing and sharing the wonderful music they create with others. Read More