Music Lessons in Eola, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I began teaching when I was still a student at Northwestern University. When I graduated in 1986 with an MM degree I began to pursue it full time which took me to many different middle/high schools in the area. I also taught at Lake Forest College as well as Saint Xavier University. In addition, I have also taught many beginners over the years. Other teaching experiences include group lessons, sectionals, master classes, and playing for patients in the oncology wing at Sherman Hospital. Read More

Instruments: Cello

Individuality, personality and enjoyment are three things that I value highly. Each student has their own motivations for learning the instrument, their own personal goals with the instrument and their own personalities. Music is such a personal, emotional and intimate form of expression, and while there are technical aspects of playing the cello that require a more analytical approach, I believe that students must remain true to themselves, to their respective motivations and to their individuality to discover their own sense of fulfillment and the joy of playing music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

I like to get to know the student as I am teaching so I create small breaks to get to know who I am teachign and their interest, so that I may taylor my lessons to the student. For beginning students I like to use essential elements books as a guide for their practice. For adults I try to find out their long term goals and taylor my lessons to gettimng them to reach that goal. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

Learning to play an instrument can be extremely overwhelming, so it's important that the student sets his or her own pace. My role as a teacher is simply to guide students along paths they choose for themselves. At the same time, I push students to explore ideas that they may not have thought to explore for themselves. For example, as a predominantly rock and blues oriented musician, some of the most profound growth I've experienced has come from learning the basics of classical theory. 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: Cello

I have been able to adapt to any student, with the goal of encouraging excitement about not just the cello, but classical music as a whole. I not only teach cello, but also incorporate music history and theory in my lessons to help excite and intrigue. With younger students I also work to incorporate what else excites and entertains them including sports, tv, and of course favorite animals. I encourage my students to perform and compete at all ages and experience. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Through the years I have taught a variety of artists in the home or my studio. Most recently I've incorporated Skype to be able to work with more international based students. I'm a huge technology geek and love to incorporate it when applicable. I also teach Electronic Music Production and Performance for Ableton Live. Now that many more people have access to high-speed internet I can work with a more diverse group of people. Read More