Music Lessons in Hodgkins, IL

Instruments: Viola

“Talent” is a widely misunderstood concept. As a teacher, I don't believe talent is born. Talent is developed as an artful skill. This skill is made through practice: concentrated sessions of self awareness, mindful repetition, and craft. Anyone can learn how to play an instrument with the right mindset and the right instruction. My lesson plans are based on what goals and interests the student has, while also keeping in mind long term progress in technique for bodily ease. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I have loved music from a very early age and I have been fortunate to study a variety of instruments and musical styles. I grew up studying the drums, piano, guitar, voice, and songwriting. I have been in a cover bands, original bands, jazz bands, choirs, a country band, a steel drum band, marching band, opera, a pop orchestra, a hip hop ensemble, and musical theatre productions. In college I took my studies further by learning music theory and aural skills while still performing in ensembles and writing lots of music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer French Horn

The most effective teachers that I have had were teachers who recognized these important factors in the student-teacher relationship- that the best education experiences occur when both the student and the teacher embark on a positively-reinforced exploration together as opposed to the teacher solely dictating negatively to the student. It's with this spirit that I intend to conduct every lesson that I teach, because it is also through making the relationship one of mutual exploration and nurturing that I will give my past experiences of joy to my students. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I've been teaching private lessons for about three years. My teaching emphasizes practical drumming skills that get students off their feet quickly if they are a beginner, and help move beyond technique and shape musicianship if they are an intermediate player. I put a heavy focus on helping the student become a well rounded musician first and foremost through content that they enjoy. This means addressing the role of the drums and other instruments in music, and encouraging discussion about how advanced drummers make artistic choices. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

I strive to tailor instruction to meet the needs of the individual student. For students who are at a beginning level, I often start with a reliable methods book (i.e. Piano Adventures) to lay a foundation. From there, I like to explore a range of supplementary materials that can help students work toward their personal goals and interests, such as modern/ other genres of music, composition material, technique-specific exercises, etc. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

I will continually focus on vowel-forming exercises and funneling the singing air through the nasal cavity and middle of the face. This way, the student will understand how to produce a big sound without straining. Breathing exercises such as 'underwater noises' and 'tornado siren' are fun and keep the mood open and lively. I want to create an atmosphere that lets the student feel strong enough to test their limits. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I love helping my students achieve their dreams. I work with each student to set realistic goals for each lesson. I also encourage students to record their lessons so they can track their progress along the way. Read More