Guitar Lessons in Wilton Center, IL

Instruments: Guitar

As a child of parents who have been/currently are teachers, I understand the utter importance of a good teacher. Personally, I believe the teacher/student relationship can be incredibly impactful and inspiring. I was always very inspired by my favorite teachers and I do not believe I would have progressed as a musician/human without the lessons I learned from my teachers over the years. I love watching the lightbulb go off in my students' heads and encouraging them when they're struggling or when they nail a concept. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

In 2010, I graduated from VanderCook College of Music with a Bachelor's in Music Education. I have played in a variety of instrumental ensembles on different instruments, from euphonium, trombone, marimba and drum-set to name a few. I am motivated to helping people accomplish their goal of learning their instrument. I teach music for Chicago Public Schools and have started a music program at my school teaching, marching band, guitar, choir, drum-line and orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My style of tutelage differs from many other teachers in that I place as much emphasis improvisation as on fundamental techniques. Etudes are fun and all (really, they are), but nothing beats having the ability to ... This, of course, entails important theory elements and special techniques, when needed. I have taught students since high school, and all throughout college was a guitar teacher; even TAing for special guitar courses over the summer. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I've been playing music for 13 years now. I started on drums but quickly became excited about the guitar and songwriting, and am now an award winning multi-instrumentalist and singer. In addition to frequently performing around Chicago, I'm a passionate instructor and love to share what I've learned from my B.A. in Music and real-world experiences. I moved to Chicago from Boston about a year ago and have immersed myself into the scene here as a solo artist as well as part of a band, so I'm looking forward to meeting new students and having fun lessons! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

The first lesson is always partly an interview so I can understand exactly what the student's goals are. I typically establish good posture and breathing habits (or bowing and fingering, if violin) first and then move on to essential warm-up exercises. Those exercises then become their regular homework, to hopefully be practiced multiple times a week or if possible, every day. I remind the student of breathing and posture regularly - good habits are the goal! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar

My teaching style is patient, encouraging, and focused on what the student wants to learn, by quickly getting them to play the music they want to they are motivated to practice.  It should be enjoyable first and foremost.  For those that aspire to be professionals, I make sure the student understands the dedication and discipline necessary to achieve their goals. No two students are alike in terms of the goals they have or the method of teaching that will be the most effective for them. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods vary according to the student.  If the student is less than 12 years old, I like to use the Hal Leonard Method 1 book.  If the student is 12 or older, I may still use the Hal Leonard book, but I assess the students goals, and find out what they would like to learn.  Whatever style of music the student is interested in learning, I believe in teaching proper posture and sound technique.  For anyone interested in learning classical guitar, I recommend a book titled Pumping Nylon by Scott Tennant. Read More