Music Lessons in Goodenow, IL

Instruments: Piano

I am highly motivated to determine the unique musical talent of each individual student, and their learning style and developing their potential. I have a Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Music in Piano Pedagogy, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Special Education. This degree is the same as an ED D, but many electives. Mine was in brain sciences, neurology, autism, developmental disorders, and music. This degree enables me to use music for cognitive improvement in autism. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I come from a family of natural musicians. Meaning Ive been blessed with a good ear for music . I started playing at the age of 4 and was performing professionally by the age of 15. I grew up exposed to several styles of music from all my family members. Everything from Rock, Jazz, Funk, Latin, Motown, RB, Country, Eastern Music, and Pop. Learning multiple styles of music before I was formally trained was a big help when It came time to learn proper techniques and feels as well as reading and writing . Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

For beginners, I advise them to purchase Essential Elements or another book of equivalent level, and we would be able to work through these basic exercises and melodies so that the student can learn fundamentals. I also ask beginners what song they would like to play, and I would transcribe the notes for them so that we can work towards something they want to achieve in the near future. For players who are intermediate level and above, I think it is important to point out what people do well, and then as a teacher provide feedback on how they can get better. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I found myself teaching at a very young age, being hired as the accompanist for the Dominican High School Summer Theatre Camp. These campers ranged in age from 5-14. I have accompanied for the past six summers, and I eventually held the title of Lead Music Teacher. At school in Chicago, I did some vocal coaching of my peers. I have experience in teaching and coaching both musical theatre repertoire and classical repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods vary according to the student.  If the student is less than 12 years old, I like to use the Hal Leonard Method 1 book.  If the student is 12 or older, I may still use the Hal Leonard book, but I assess the students goals, and find out what they would like to learn.  Whatever style of music the student is interested in learning, I believe in teaching proper posture and sound technique.  For anyone interested in learning classical guitar, I recommend a book titled Pumping Nylon by Scott Tennant. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

I always knew I wanted to study music, and chose Illinois State to do so. While there, I participated in musicals, as well as concert choir and the women's elite chorus "Belle Voix." Since college, I have been writing original cabarets and performing live around the city of Chicago. It's my philosophy that one should never stop learning, so I study regularly with my voice teacher of eight years, Sandra DeAthos, take class at the Bloom School of Jazz (vocal performance and jazz piano), and with the Second City Music Conservatory. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important aspect of teaching music is to keep the student excited and engaged! I want my students to be eager to learn. I keep all lessons fun and casual, but stress the importance of hard work. I always encourage daily practice sessions, even if just for 15 - 20 minutes. Repetition is key! I discuss our goals for the lessons (what do you want to get out of the lesson? why do you want to learn saxophone?) and strive to meet our goals. Read More