Guitar Lessons in Chicago, IL

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

For nearly a decade, I have enjoyed working with students of all ages, skill levels, and musical interests.  As an instructor, I am committed to helping each student reach his or her individual goals and expectations.  Prior to moving back to the Chicago area in 2013, I studied at Eastern Illinois University, where I earned an M.A. in guitar performance and a B.M. in jazz studies.  Through my studies and experience, I was able to develop a well-rounded perspective on different musical and pedagogical styles.  As I return to the Chicago area, I hope that my mentorship will continue to guide students toward their own aspirations.    

Instruments: Guitar Voice Trumpet

I am passionate about teaching. Music education is but a second thought of most of our children's primary educational settings, so I wanted to create a learning environment that focuses on performance and execution. I  am a composer and arranger, so I also like to infuse some basic music theory and compositional/improvisational techniques into my lessons. In short, I am trying to foster new artists!

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

There's nothing better than watching my students grow into fine musicians and have a love for music.  I do this by keeping lessons lighthearted and fun while stressing the importance of regular practice and attention to detail.  I like to celebrate all accomplishments no matter how big or small to encourage them to keep up the good work.  Everyone likes stickers, high fives, and smiles! I also encourage them to show off thier talent by performing in recitals, for thier parents and friends, or by joining groups.  The store where my studio is located even has classes in learning to play in a rock band! Every lesson is tailored to the student's needs, desires, goals, and learning pace.  I like to make sure that no one is overwhelmed or bored, and that they get to play something they want to play as soon as possible.  I also offer some online help tools too for that time between lessons.

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For Children: I normally use The Hal Leonard Guitar Method series in conjunction with my own material I'll bring to lessons. I'll usually create a lesson plan that'll focus on all basic fundamentals that are goal-focused, while incorporating songs that'll help reinforce those mechanics! I like to keep lessons fun by bringing music that students enjoy and by using some music software on my tablet! I generally have a more laidback approach, but honest. I try to burn a more passionate, positive fire under my students, rather then make them dread going to lessons. For Adults: I go at the speed and pace you want to go at! I take into consideration adult responsibilities and what your goals are for their choice of study. I keep lesson plans a bit more loose depending on skill level and available practice time. Some people like a more structured lesson, while others like having a free-form lesson, I'll do which ever works best for you. I also steer my teaching in the direction of style, genre, or specific mechanics that the you want to learn.