Music Lessons in Knollwood, IL

Instruments: Saxophone

I'm a well rounded teacher with experience in a wide range of musical styles. As a certified public schools music teacher I regularly work with students as young as pre-k all the way up to adults. I specialize in the saxophone which I have been playing for over 20 years. My studio is a single family home in the west town neighborhood of Chicago. Waiting parents can take advantage of a private parking lot, outdoor seating and a parent waiting area adjoined to the studio room itself. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

When I am introduced to a new potential student I try to assess the level of interest, and the reason behind the desire to take up an instrument. I also like to understand what the extracurricular activities are that may create a roadblock when it comes to practicing. As a father of 2 boys 8 and 11, I know the number of distractions, homework, and how life can get in the way. I enjoy working with everyone from the casual enthusiast, to the dedicated pupil. Read More

Instruments: Viola

One of my primary goal when I am working with student is to set a goal point, and what we want to achieve while working together. Such as, we would like to pick a simple goal as learning a favorite piece within time frame to applying to a competition or festival student wishes to aim their goal. As a instructor, it is very rewarding to see the student students are working hard for their goals and making steps in order to achieve the goal. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I approach teaching as an avenue to inspire others. Making mistakes are just as important as playing something perfect. I like to stress that perfection is not the goal but feeling good from playing your instrument is. It is very important for my students to practice outside of lessons. I try to encourage that through positive reinforcements verses just saying you have to practice this lesson over and over. I make my guitar lessons fun which keeps my students coming back. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I'm positive, goal focused, and hugely passionate about music! I want my students to love music as much as I do! I grew up taking lessons from teachers who treated it too much like a job. I think that'll rub off on how a student views music. Setting realistic goals with tons of encouragement will help accelerate learning. I see the most success when my students hit their first milestone and they finally realize all their hard work pays off and they can make music! Read More

Instruments: Drums

For beginners, after we learn the basics of the instrument, I employ a repertoire-based instruction model that has students bringing their favorite songs to me. I use this repertoire to teach important concepts, all while the students learns what they want to learn. As a student transitions into intermediate drumming, I start to introduce some technical exercises that will allow the student to grow into their own style and express themselves. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music

Every student comes at a different level, no matter what age they are. For younger students who are just beginning, I feel like it is my job to first and foremost get them excited about playing the drums. I find it to be difficult to teach anything if the student dimply does not want to be there because they do not have a good relationship with the instrument. Once I feel the student is excited and ready, I usually introduce the "Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer." This book is important for building skills in reading music, ear training, and general funky rhythms! Read More