Music Lessons in Downers Grove, IL

Instruments: Violin

I started violin at the age of 10 in the Homewood public school system and it has been with me ever since. I am now an Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Alumn and have a Bachelor's in Music with a degree in Violin Performance. I studied all four years with Mimi Zweig and worked for a year at the Fairview Elementary School as a part of the Violin Project. In 2016, I had the opportunity to perform with the Teng Virtuosi in Cebu, Philippines in collaboration with the El Sistemang Philipino. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Music

For beginners, introductory lesson books are very helpful for teaching the fundamentals of reading and playing music. I take a split approach with students working on basics such as scales/arpeggios along with repertoire so students can develop multiple skills at one time. I approach technique for both cello and piano as the art of releasing tension in the body while achieving the desired sound of the instrument. The goal is to play efficiently and relaxed, as this is the most productive and safe way to make music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I also strongly believe in the power of performance and having the opportunity to share what you learn and enjoy with others, so depending on the age I always strongly encourage finding performance opportunities of any kind, playing/practicing with friends, studying abroad, etc. However, as I said, every student is different, so these approaches have to be flexible in order to successfully accommodate my instruction to each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

As a music teacher, it is my passion to inspire my students to create music at every level. Establishing good technique and fundamentals are important to mastering any art; they are the means by which music is expressed. My primary focus, however, is that performing music should always be fun and exciting. To this end, I believe that even playing simple scales and fundamental exercises should be musical and creative. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I started giving private lessons out my freshman year of college 5 years ago. During that time I had students from my previous high school and junior high. Both age groups gave me the chance to find ways to help different levels of playing and what to focus on with different levels of playing and understanding of the horn. For the younger, beginning junior high students I would work on exercises their band teacher had given to them and their playing posture and breathing. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have dedicated the last 15 years of my life to learning both how to play the drums, as well as the history of the drumset. Since a young age, I have been obsessed with gathering as much knowledge on the subject as possible. This includes everything from vintage equipment, different playing techniques, drum and cymbal construction and their effect on sound, and many others. Now, my main focus is on spreading this information, education other musicians, and most importantly, helping to extend my passion for music and the drumset to everyone interested in learning to play the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

I am always conscious of myself to aim to be fun, understanding, and motivating. As long as my student is motivated to learn I could not care less if they were the worst player on the planet; I will endure thick and thin to guide them to success. The motivation to become better and to strive for excellence is what I look for in my students. I love music and while I don't expect all my students to pursue music as a career, I want my students coming away from my lessons purely enjoying music. Read More