Music Lessons in Indian Creek, IL

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I start beginning students with both a method book and a blank manuscript which we use to journal weekly. The method book is to instill a variety of fundamental skills while the manuscript (or materials saved and shared in google drive) is used to be a fun way of focussing and developing each student's individual trajectory. More advanced students may or may not require a method book per se but may be referenced to a variety of sources dependent on their current level of development. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

As a teacher, I am most interested in helping students develop solid fundamental technique while discovering the joy of playing and mastering an instrument. I am very flexible in the use of method books, prefering to discover the individual needs of my students and tailoring instruction and materials to each individual. My teaching stresses the fundamental operation of the instrument (use of air, embouchure, posture, and hand placement) in order to unlock the student's full potential. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Oboe English Horn

As I said earlier I tend to use the Rubank and Essential Element books in lessons. I start with seeing what the students goals are and making a goal sheet. For instance if a student is interested in Musicals. We will start with our basic warm up and techniques but on top of that I would assign an excerpt from a musical that correlates with the current lesson. So that way the student is working toward their goal and having fun doing so. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For 5 to 6 year old beginners, I create an individualized lesson plan based on observing the student's learning style, strengths and weaknesses as well as personality. For the first 4 or more lessons, this includes my own big-note, large-symbol work sheets and simple songs. Next, and with older or more advanced students, I use a combination of lesson, technique and performance method books (Faber, Bastien, Hal Leonard), a scale/chording book and adjunct material consisting of songs the student wants to learn such as pop/rock, movie themes, holiday and theme music, and classical, to maintain interest and enjoyment. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My main goal as a teacher is to instill a passion and appreciation for music, as well as to teach a sense of work ethic. I don't expect that all of my students follow on to becoming a professional musician, however I do expect that my students achieve realistic goals and progress at their own individual pace. I try to not be overly formal with my students- I want them to feel comfortable and un-intimidated. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

Nothing makes me happier than watching a student progress and develop a passion for music. Therefore I think its important to let students grow and develop at their own pace. Setting realistc goals, acknowleging accomplishments, and challenging a student helps fuel their passion and increase their confidence! If a student has passion and confidence, tailoring lessons to their specific needs is easy! Read More