Music Lessons in Darien, IL

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I set realistic goals for each lesson so that each student will be able to progress and show improvement on a quicker level and not get frustrated with too much work. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I approach private music lessons centered around the student. Whether the student wants to learn a single song, a few different songs, or wants a complete ground-up experience starting with the most basic fundamentals, I can accommodate the students needs and wants. I will break beats down to the fundamental level and build from there in easy sections in order to comprehensively understand a specific rhythm, which makes learning much faster. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I typically start beginners with the Teaching Little Fingers to play books. After going through the books at whatever rate the student needs to retain information, I will move on to solo repertoire pieces that align with the students' interests and tastes. I remember my piano teacher when I was a child bringing over several books for me to choose from, and it was the most exciting thing. I do the same with my students, so that the learning stays fun and students get to reap the rewards of their hard work throughout the process. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

I strive to create an atmosphere of fun and creativity in my studio. This is done while simultaneously building a strong foundation of technique, posture, and musicality in all of my students, regardless of their age or experience level. I have no personal agenda when instructing. I consider myself merely a means for the student's own personal and musical development. Lesson structure depends on the individual's goals. If the student hopes to nail an audition for a spot in a high school's drumline, then we will work on snare drum technique and concentration during private practice and during performance. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

We do this- music- to enrich our lives, make us more intelligent and give us inspiration, and this in turn gives other people beauty and inspiration. I'm teaching and playing because I love doing it, and it benefits all facets of my life. That's what I want to see in my students as well. But because we're happy doing it, doesn't always mean it should be easy. We have to practice, practice, and keep practicing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard

When creating lesson plans for classes or for individual lessons, I customize and design the lessons to fit the needs of the students. I always interview the students and set goals to know where they want to go so that all of our work is geared towards there individual success and improvement. I utilize various methods books depending on the students abilities. I also heavily utilize the Kodaly method and the Orff Method when teaching. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I graduated with my Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from Oberlin Conservatory in 1986. While there, I studied with Richard Miller, regarded by many as one of the greatest voice teachers of the 20th century. Millers books on singing are now standard texts in music schools all over the world. I then received a fellowship and teaching assistantship at Yale University (1986-88) while receiving my Master of Music in Vocal Performance. Read More