Guitar Lessons in Clearing, IL

Instruments: Guitar

While in college, I began tutoring fellow music students in the areas of guitar, songwriting, music production, and music theory. It was during this time that I realized how fun and rewarding it is to have something I say "click" for the student that encourages their love for music! After college, I started teaching younger, beginning students, and am now looking to expand my teaching to all levels and ages. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute

For beggining students in guitar or piano, I would have them start with a basic beggining book such as something by hal leonard. With guitar I will teach basic chords and go from there to working on songs. Scales and chords will be a big part of beggining work in these instruments. As for Saxophone, I will usually begin with scales and long tone work- the later being something extremely important. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Mandolin

After thirty years in my musical career, I have come to the conclusion that the best way to learn is when there is joy in the study. I have a musical academic foundation, while obtaining an A+ status during my musical studies. Yet for me, the act of making music is more of a spiritual and auditory process than that of physical workmanship.  Despues de treinta años en la musica he llegado a la conclusion que la mejor manera de aprender es cuando hay gozo en el estudio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer French Horn

At this point in time I've been blessed with the opportunities to teach in both private one-on-one tutoring settings as well as with large groups of children through volunteering, student teaching and substitute teaching. It was through the summation of these experiences that I predicted- and have ultimately discovered- that I love being a music educator. The height of what fulfills me about being a music educator is the essence of the work: Exploration and nurturing for both the student and the teacher. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

We do this- music- to enrich our lives, make us more intelligent and give us inspiration, and this in turn gives other people beauty and inspiration. I'm teaching and playing because I love doing it, and it benefits all facets of my life. That's what I want to see in my students as well. But because we're happy doing it, doesn't always mean it should be easy. We have to practice, practice, and keep practicing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For every student I always start with the basics. What are the basics? Well, first and most important for getting you started is open chords. That along with pentatonic scales will really help to develope finger dexterity and get the student adjusted to proper hand and finger positioning on the guitar. During that same period we will practice strumming patterns and exercises to fully bring the use of both hands up to a level that allows us to play simple songs. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I don't really use method books; instead, I prefer to teach students using material that they like. There's nothing more tedious than studying music that you can't stand - it's enough to turn students off to music altogether. I want to stoke the flames of a lifelong passion, and I believe that all music has something to teach us, so I'm happy to couch the fundamentals into terms that students can understand. Read More