Music Lessons in Aurora, IL

Instruments: Trombone

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a student have an ah-ha! moment, and it is my passion to help students reach and exceed their goals in the most enjoyable way for them. I realize all students learn differently, so I have experience with starting beginners on a strict fundamental basis, starting them on figuring out a favorite song on their instrument for fun, and generally helping them in a unique way that suits them best. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For my entire teaching career thus far, I have taught the Suzuki method. I find the sequence of pieces in each book is quite suitable for a young musician. However, I do believe note reading and general music theory should be incorporated into lessons right from the beginning, especially if the child does not have a background in piano. In addition to Suzuki, I like to integrate various exercises and scales into the lesson and daily practice routine as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Keyboard

I am a graduate from SAE institute with an A.A.S Degree in Sound Audio Engineer, which also qualify me to teach DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software like Protools, Ableton and more. I enjoy playing my Bass guitar, but my first love i think is playing drums. I have been playing trumpet in Jr. High received honor and was recruited to Collins High in 1977 which I later transferred to Manley high to play in the Jazz band there. O'Quinn Drum and Bugle Corp in the early 70's and was teaching the Drum line in the late 70's early 80's. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

My experience with learning was fun. Since I was learning multiple instruments it was fun to tie everything together. I could say the best part while learning was understanding theory...that part of my learning opened up many doors for me musically. I started to understand why certain notes could and couldn't be played, why and how to use different scales. Those things are the same things I try to reveal to the students when the time is right. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

My preferred method for very young students has been the Suzuki method, as I believe a well trained ear continues to be our best musical learning tool later in life as well. When students progress to reading, the full line of Suzuki books can of course be utilized, but it is very advisable to incorporate additional materials and techniques. The Kodaly method is also useful and even more traditional 'reading first' techniques can be used if requested. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For students that are interested on solo playing, we work on different types of scales, and I introduce them to the many keys that they are in. I also teach many different techniques, such as those that are incorporated with tapping on the fretboard. All of these topics will be covered in our private sessions, and each student receives homework assignments so that they can go home and practice what they have learned. 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