Music Lessons in Hoffman Estates, IL

Instruments: Trombone

In addition to teaching trombone, music appreciation, and tutoring music theory, I have performed with the Tallahassee Symphony, Sinfonia Gulf Coast Orchestra, Lebanon Symphony, Dayton Philharmonic, Southwest Florida Symphony, and several other orchestras, wind bands, musicals, chamber groups, and jazz ensembles throughout Florida and Ohio. My father is an organist and so my upbringing has always been around classical music, but I have learned that all types of music are based on the same principles: solid technique, good concept of sound, and creative expression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Bass Guitar

I come to teaching with the understanding that every student is different. We will try to get at each problem in a variety of ways, and see what works for you. We will also gear our curriculum towards the student's own interests, keeping in mind that there is plenty of material that is common to everyone's growth. Since lesson time is limited, I won't waste time telling stories or lecturing you about different musical concepts. 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

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

for the beginner student, we will start off by going through things such as scales, arpeggios, and exercises to build a solid foundation. While doing this, I will have the student pick a song they like, whether it be pop, country, jazz, classical, and begin to learn it by ear to begin to develop solid aural recognition. Once the fundamentals are solid, we will move on to either working on a sonata or concerto or a transcription and a tune (depending on if you are a jazz student or classical). Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I was raised into a family of music and heard classic/southern rock, blues, bluegrass and pop hits performed live at family get togethers throughout my youth. I played Euphonium in a concert setting through high school as well as the Baritone in marching band. My native instrument is the electric guitar but I have studied heavily with acoustic material as well as bass guitar. I have had the opportunity to teach a few different age groups as well and it inspires me to continue teaching no matter the age group. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

When a student begins taking lessons from me, I will first assess their musical abilities and ask them what their goals are as a player. I then create a custom lesson plan. This plan is tailored to their goals, but is also based on the areas in their playing that need attention. Fundamentals are emphasized. Some topics covered in lessons may include reading music, embouchure, air flow, listening, tone quality, reeds, improvisation, and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music Keyboard

Helping a student become passionate about music is the most rewarding thing I can get from teaching. I set realistic goals that help the student progress at a rate geared towards the student's own pace. Positive feedback helps instill a desire to continue working and practicing regularly. This also pushes the student to wish to learn and work on more challenging materials. By learning where each student draws his/her own inspiration, I tailor our lessons to their goals while opening up their possibilities to go even further than what the student thought possible. Read More