Music Lessons in Crete, IL

Instruments: Piano

I taught formal lessons after I had graduated from college. I have also instructed family and friends and have helped them further develop their piano skills. Encouraging regular practise and emphasizing proper hand and wrist placement are things that I emphasize. I like to watch and see why someone is struggling to play a song, and I am able to offer a solution. I like to teach students how to play music that they enjoy: their favorite songs by their favorite artists. 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: Saxophone

I believe every student pursues music for a different reason, so I approach every student with a custom curriculum. For all students I stress the importance of scales, arpeggios, ear training and scale patterns (3rds, 4ths, etc) to improve technical facility from the beginning. For beginners I typically use the Rubank Edute book to begin reading music. All students are introduced to 'Top Tones for the Saxophone' by Rascher early on to improve range, intonation, breath support and tone quality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

Bass and music should be enjoyable and fun, and I hope I can bring that to every student. I encourage students practice everyday so that lessons can progessive and students have the opportunity to learn new and challenging music. It is my goal to create a postive learning evironment that helps a student grow to their full potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

I always try to encourage students to see the small victories in playing music; regardless of how significant or noticeable an achievement is. Many students get down on themselves because they can't play something or they make a mistake. This is a deficit mindset that stunts growth long term. When I first teach a student I want them to set a short term goal between each lesson and one long term goal that spans from a month to a year. 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