Music Lessons in La Grange Highlands, IL

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

For beginning students, I like to start with the basic fundamentals of holding the drum sticks properly and how to set up the drum set so its comfortable for the student. Every body type is different and its important to start with that. Then we would move on to learning the basics of different styles and then move on to reading music from method books. With adult students, I find out what they are interested in and work towards their goals. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

Recently returned from Japan, I served as Co-Principal Clarinetist of the Hyogo Performing Arts Center Orchestra since 2011. With 3 nationwide tours, I performed all over Japan, appearing regularly on the nationally televised program "Daimei no Nai Ongakukai" televised nationally. In 2010 I earned my Master of Music degree at the University of Southern California, studying with master teacher Yehuda Gilad. Orginally from Orland Park, I studied with my childhood idols in the Chicago Symphony. Read More

Instruments: Voice

For my first class with my students, I typically would get to know them in terms of their goals, experience as a singer, and get to know where they are in their pursuit of those goals they set for themselves. After which, I would do warm-up exercises, vowel, and consonant work, and establish fundamentals of vocal techniques for the desired genre. Once the student feels more comfortable with their voice, I would suggest an introductory repertoire (usually an Art Song) according to their age, level, voice type, and their personality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

I began teaching people how to play instruments when I was in high school, by teaching new students to the band how to play percussion. I then continued teaching once in college by volunteering at local high schools helping new students to the band programs learn brass and percussion. From there I worked with the Rich South high school band director and the Jack Hille middle school band directors. Once I graduated college I taught choir and instrumental music for the catholic school system for two years. 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: Guitar

While I taught some guitar lessons here and there in high school, I got my first steady gig teaching at a music store at the age of 19. Now, at the age of 25, I have taught hundreds of lessons, and had jobs teaching at a few different locations. I am constantly looking for better ways to explain things, ways to get students more motivated, and most importantly, ways to make learning music more fun! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

For beginning voice students, I focus on opening and relaxing the throat by way of diaphragm support and healthy, strong breathing. These are the fundamentals of good singing, regardless of the style.We work on these techiniques with both vocal exercises and repertoire.From there, I focus on the student's quality of tone and helping them find their "natural voice." The best singers use their authentic sound, and are not a second-rate imitation of someone else. Read More