Music Lessons in Brookfield, IL

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Keyboard

I have been teaching privately for over 15 years now and absolutely adore my students. They teach me just as much as I teach them. One of my true joys in life is giving back the knowledge that was imbued on me from an early age. I like making the music fun, encouraging students to "play" rather than "practice." Integrating music they love into lessons is also a great tool, in my experience. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

The great thing about private one-on-one lessons is the individualized pace and learning style. I like to understand the most effective ways my student learns. Some students need to be immersing themselves in exercises that allow them to create and experience the music through a personal lens. Some students prefer to hone in on the technical work and theory. Both are important skills for a well-rounded player but depending on the student's personality they may be more inclined toward one or the other. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Ukulele Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I have been passionate about music my entire life. I’ll never forget when I sat down to play drum set for the very first time as a kid and floored my parents. It came so naturally, I started playing funk, and they immediately bought me a drum set. I have since learned guitar, ukulele, and for the past decade or so have played traditional West African djembe and dunun (see the video). Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar

For the child and adult alike I begin with different types of instuctional material. Since instuctional materials use similar but somewhat different ways of presenting concepts, I use the the series that will allow the student to grasp and master the fundamentals. The older student, along with learning the fundmentals, will also explore their interests. I'll begin tailoring their lessons to include their interests as well as other genres. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Music Keyboard

écoutez et répétez. Translation: hear and repeat. There is simply no better methodology in grasping and understanding an instructor’s directions so that a student, no matter what the age, can progress confidently and successfully. In addition, theoretical and historical subject matter is also introduced appropriately to keep him or her engaged continuously. Performances throughout the year, which include solos, duos, trios, and quartets will further inspire the student to progress even further. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have a very hands-on teaching style. My style is very "goal-oriented," and I will teach students to set short-term goals, medium goals, and then demonstrate to them how reaching the short and medium-term goals leads to accomplishing long-term goals. This system allows students to remain motivated and track their progress as efficiently as possible. As a visual learner, I find it's extremely beneficial to teach shapes and how they can be manipulated to better serve a musical purpose along with the theory behind the shapes themselves. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

Every student is unique. Therefore, a student's learning process should complement that uniqueness. I like to take time to figure out exactly what "speaks" to a student. What really works for some is completely lost on others. I tailor my instruction to their wants and needs, and take close note of the activities to which they respond well. In doing so, the student meets their goals in a quicker and more enjoyable way. Read More