Music Lessons in Itasca, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute

My approach to teaching is very "person-centered"- in that I will adapt to the needs of the student. I do not have one stuanch approach in teaching music. I want to help students engage early on in "Music Experiences"- not just learning scales, but truly playing music with me, improvising, and enjoying themsevles. This sort of music work really formsm the bedrock of my music lesson and music therapy practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a professional musician and educator who has lived in Chicagoland with my wife and two boys for the last 18 years. I'm originally from Columbus, Ohio and received my BM from Capital University there. From there I was Music Director for one of Royal Caribbean's ships and then I made the move to Chicago in mid-1996. From then until now I have become one of the top/first call saxophonist/woodwind musicians in the city of Chicago and have performed all over the world with musical lumaries such as Aretha Franklin, The OJays, Brian McKnight, Diana Ross, Al Jarreau, The Temps and dozens of others! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

90% of being a good saxophonist is the responsibility of the student, and 10% is on the teacher. Even though a student should work hard to improve, I recognize that my 10% is extremely vital. Since my scheduled lesson with a student only represents a fraction of the time they play their horn, I keep it fun, upbeat, and encouraging. If a student is struggling with an assignment, it will be met with kindness and patience. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I'm a young musician, and I have a strong believe in the importance of all forms of artistic expression. Above all, I understand that music, of all art forms, is integral to social and personal development. I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a BA in music in vocal performance in 2013, and in 2012, I had the amazing experience of studying under the renowned soprano, Delia Surratt, in Rome. In school, I also completed a theatre minor and was the musical director of my a cappella group, so I am familiar with many styles of singing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon

It is important to me that each student progress at their own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. I make sure to always acknowledge accomplishments to help fuel the student's desire to progress and make them eager to learn more. By finding out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I have been teaching formally for the past 17 years in university, high school, and community music school settings. I have taught students at all levels of ability from highly diverse cultural backgrounds. The most exciting moment for me is when a student catches on to a new concept and overcomes a fear or limitation. I try to incorporate each student's outside interests into the study of music, relating everything from computer science, history, skateboarding, you-name-it to the practice of music. Read More