Guitar Lessons in Niles, IL

Instruments: Guitar Drums Ukulele Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I have loved teaching ever since I was young. Both of my parents were educators before retiring, and whether it was math or science, I’ve always enjoyed seeing the lightbulb go off in my students. I feel as a teacher, it is vital to focus first on the foundations that will later create more success, especially those that are necessary for truly understanding that instrument. Once those are established, I then focus on weaknesses, where practice and diligence become important. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Over the past 20 years, I have developed a very successful method of getting students up and playing the guitar very quickly focusing primarily on the mechanics of playing the guitar. The guitar is a highly physically demanding instrument and requires very regular practice just to get to the point where sound that can be turned into music can be made. For more intermediate and advanced students, I draw on my extensive performance experience and focus on practical, real world techniques and theory to help them advance their playing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been playing the drums for 16 years and the guitar for 18 years. I started by learning how to play rock beats and songs independetly and eventually started taking lessons from drummer, Martin Dosh of Andrew Bird's live band. Martin, a jazz and hip-hop drummer from Minneapolis taught me how isolation techniques and jazz/swing exercises derived from Hal Leonard's methods book. Since College, I have been playing in local and touring bands as well as teaching out of my studio space in Ukrainian Village, Chicago. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

First and foremost, I want music to be fun for my students. I want them to know that all of their favorite songs by their favorite artists can be played by implementing the correct techniques and fundamentals. I try to instill the importance of scales and progressions, and how that connects into learning their favorite songs or even writing their own original material. No matter where you would like to go musically, we all need to know the basics to get us there. 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: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Harmonica Recorder Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

i use many different books for different students. whether they are children or adults. i typically use hal leonard books such as fast track or play today or essential elements. other method books i teach are mel bay, alfred's, warner brothers, kjos, fjh, suzuki and many others. i have my own fun and fast way i teach to learn about music and your particular instrument. i motivate each student accordingly. and i guide them thru the many challenges music has to offer. in all, music should be a part in everyone's life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I use many ideas from various sources to combine with my instruction methods; All with a gradient level in mind rising to a higher plateau of musical knowledge and understanding. I combine theory with practical applications of each concept being taught. Music theory, practical exercises, along with ear training appropriate to the level or needs of a student. I give students songs to learn that emphasizes concepts being taught.They have an option to select their own songs, if it's not outside their level of playing. Read More