Guitar Lessons in Half Day, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Clarinet Recorder Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I never imagined God had plans for me to be a music teacher. I had taken piano lessons for about 15 years (later adding recorder, guitar, violin, clarinet, saxophone, and cello) and was working as a front desk receptionist in a music school when a teacher notified us of an unexpected long-term absence. My boss--who had known me for almost 20 years, and who taught me piano-- approached me and said she would like ME to teach the affected students. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

The students long-term goals shape the curriculum. Its important to keep them excited about the material, especially if theyre new to music. Ive found the most effective way to do so is to show how good technique and basic theory apply to music theyre already listening to. Eventually, students see common threads between different styles and genres. Ideally, students will walk away with more eclectic musical preferences. Equally important is to trace a style back to its roots. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginners at the start of the lessons, I usually get the know each student. Why would they like to learn? and What would they like to learn on guitar?; in order to make some reachable goals! Some will prefer to learn how to just physically play the guitar, and others may want a little more in depth understanding about the theory behind it and how to read music. When it comes to children, I believe the best way to keep them engaged and wanting to learn more is by making these lessons as fun as possible, while keeping nice and easy. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

My approach is definitely supportive and positive, but I don't let that get in the way of challenging the student. I am not afraid to tell the student that they can do better. It's very important to get to know the student's goals and inspirations. That way, I can focus on the skills they need. Also, I like to let the student learn songs by artists they love (if applicable) because it motivates them and sometimes it ends up being the sound they want to go for anyway. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Acoustic Guitar

My music backround goes back to my pre-teen days with a toy guitar and singing in front of my second grade class. Formal training began in junior high with the saxophone which continued through high school and my college years at Fairleigh Dickinson University. I became interested in the guitar and played with many groups and ensambles. Then became interested in the violin and fell in love with it. I have been playing for the past fifteen years and teaching for five. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; I'm teaching. I’m an avid columnist for Modern Drummer Magazine and I sing/play guitar for one of Chicago's best Nirvana tributes called Smells Like Nirvana. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

For beginning students of any age I start out with basic open chords and how to switch between them. We'll eventually try out different picking patterns with these chords and some simple songs that utilize them. For more experienced students I will present some chords and scales and determine what level they are on and take it from there. Once my students have a grasp on some chords and scales I like to have them take turns soloing while the other plays rhythm. Read More