Music Lessons in Darien, IL

Instruments: Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle Music

Ive had all different kinds of teachers - ones that have touched my heart through music and our relationship, others that have made music a dread, and some a little crazy. But from each teacher I have learned what to be and not to be for my students. Though important, violin is not always the center of someones life. I understand if a goal isnt met or something comes up, and readjusting so progress can happen. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

I am a passionate and motivated teacher who loves working with students of all ages and share my love of music. I have been a musician for 20 years. I have played in concert orchestras, churches, and local venues. I have been a Worship Pastor or Music Director for over 10 years. My goal is to help everyone understand and enjoy the power of music. I help students learn to play by ear, understand music theory, and coach them into finding their own sound. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

Seeing a student progress week-by-week is an exubertant experience. I encourage all of my students to be honest about what makes them inspired to play music and from there we work on capturing all of the components of that source of inspiration. What is so effective about this approach is that it blends both discipline and humanism. By critically examining our strengths and weaknesses in a musical context, we become better able to do the same in other areas of life. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

My teaching experience began in college through a Flute Pedagogy course which I took as part of my degree program. As part of that course, I gave one lesson each to two different students, on beginner, and the other advanced. I have also been section leader at many different times, and in that position I was responsible for guiding and unifying the section and holding others responsible for their parts. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

I build each lesson around the needs of each student and what they would like to accomplish. I help them set reasonable practice and achievement goals. If there is a style of music they would like to learn or a particular song, I try to fit it in with the lesson and use it as a teaching tool as well. Proper technique is the foundation for exceptional performance. I spend at least 5-10 minutes each lesson on technique. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I started teaching privately as a volunteer in my beginning years of high school, which involved being a mentor for beginning level 5th grade trumpet players just starting their instrument. As I began teaching beginners, my experience ended up expanding to teaching middle and high school students of various levels, from beginner to advanced intermediate. Many of my students that started with me ended up getting into honor bands and becoming first chair in their school's band program. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

I have been teaching lessons for over 5 years, starting when I was in college. I encourage stringent and regular practicing outside of lesson times, and am always available via text or email for students to ask me questions. I firmly believe that classical technique is essential to creating safe and beautiful sound, and can be adapted into any style the singer wants to focus on. Every student learns differently, and I treat every student as an individual in that capacity. Read More