Music Lessons in Darien, IL

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music Keyboard

I am an educator, composer, and instrumentalist with a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. Over the past few years I have been fortunate to share the stage with artists like Bernard Purdie (drummer for Aretha Franklin), Donny Mccaslin (Saxophonist for David Bowie), and Cassandra O'Neil (Keyboardist for Prince). While I love performing, my heart lies with composing. I work primarily as a composer for film and TV, although I regularly write music for the concert hall as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

PIANO: For beginners who are children, I usually start with the Alfred's Music for Little Mozart's series of 4 levels. After that, students can graduate to the Alfred's upper level book series, which includes theory and practical playing books as well as fun solo and popular music books leveled specifically for them. I also find the Fingerpower series userful as a supplement, and I make sure to work on scales once students have attained a basic mastery of the keyboard and various hand positions. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's guitar lesson books 1-3. I also have material for younger children. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce songs of artists they would like to learn. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I like to adapt all of my lessons to fit the unique the goals of each student. For younger students, I prioritize building a firm foundation of music fundamentals before diving too far into instrumental study. I am a fan of the Suzuki school of thought that music is a language. For older students and adults, I work towards more specific goals that the student has. In the event that students or parents want classical instruction that emphasizes musical literacy, I start with the Hal Leonard guitar method and progress to the William Leavitt books once the student is capable. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

As someone looking to teach professionally, I love to share my knowledge with others. I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a BA in Music, and am now pursuing my MA in the Humanities, focused in music at University of Chicago. As a musician I've performed at many venues, including Mundelein Hall in Chicago, and The Chapel of Our Lord in River Forest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

Fun, energetic and productive! My students always say that they leave their lessons with a burst of inspiration. I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I'm a very creative musician with unending curiosity and a passion for people. My journey on the saxophone started over 15 years ago, and will continue as long as I can make a sound on the horn. In 2008, I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Valparaiso University. I have come to consider myself an eternal student, and seek out performing opportunities that lead me into uncharted musical territory. Read More