Music Lessons in Harwood Heights, IL

Instruments: Drums

My teaching experience has had alot of learning experiences for myself as well. Every student is different. You tend to learn things about other students playing that in some ways helps your own. Ive always emphasized listening to as many styles of music as possible. The more youre comfortable with as a listener, the easier it usually is to learn. The idea is to have a vast musical vocabulary so as not to limit yourself when it comes time to look for work either as a performer, a teacher, or a session player. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginner students that are younger, age 5 or 6, I will use the Faber primer lesson books. For older children, I like to use either Faber or Schaum Series music books. For adults I use either Faber or Alfred series music books. I purchase the books for the students and ask that the students reimburse me the cost of the books. I also will use various sheet music of favorite songs the student would be interested in. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

As a professional musician myself, I am constantly working with new people and within new musical territories. Because of this openess to collaboration, I have garnered extensive performance experience, sharing the stage with acts ranging from Califone to Grizzly Bear, as well as with improvising musicians the likes of Anton Hatwich, Eli Namay, John McCowen, and Keefe Jackson. I possess a large rhythmic vocabulary from a variety of related and disparate traditions. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My goal is to cultivate a relationship with music that will enrich the life of the student--of any level! I studied under two Jazz Messenger Alumni at Pitt, Leon Lee Dorsey, and Nathan Davis. In Chicago I got my MA at DePaul studying under Ron Perrillo, Dennis Carroll, and Dana Hall. I have blessed to perform with many important figures in jazz. Although jazz is my main focus, I truly love all forms of music and want to help the student mature their own taste and proficiency in whatever musical vain they desire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My teaching style is relaxed and easy going. This is because I try my best to cater to my student's needs. My goal when teaching a student is to be a resource to help them reach their full musical potential. This can be done by setting realistic goals, practice routines and using tension free techniques. I also try my best when teaching to give my students a safe space where they can feel free to grow, create, and express. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

For a lesson, George generally plays along with the student where the student plays a solo part with the teacher adding a second part. He also uses CD recordings with an instrumental part added having the student follow the recording.When teaching a piece, I will often ask the student to sight read notes and break down a composition into sections. Sometimes, I will have the student play just the treble notes, then bass, before adding the parts together. 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