Music Lessons in La Grange, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

Fun, energetic and productive! My students always say that they leave their lessons with a burst of inspiration. I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

It is very rewarding to see my students develop a passion for music and excel at their craft. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, i can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. 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: Trumpet Trombone

I have experience teaching with Standards of Excellence as well as Essential Elements, though I am very open to crafting an individualized curricula for students. When planning lessons, I aim to provide students with 1) music to practice from a variety of genres and styles, 2) music that will challenge them in a variety of ways, and 3) creating/composing exercises and etudes that will help the student focus on particular weaknesses in their playing (I have often used music notation software to create individualized etudes for students). Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

For beginning students (pre-Suzuki), I like to take material from different method books and even write my own songs. This way, each student has their own, individualized curriculum to help with technique or material that they find to be difficult. Once the student has a good grasp of the fundamentals, I like to use Suzuki books. I like to use the Suzuki method for younger beginners because it can be more challenging to learn to read notes, but I encourage note reading for older students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

My goal in teaching is to make sure my student reaches their fullest potential. If something that I'm doing isn't working or getting through to the student I will make sure to adapt and find the right way to engage them. Positive encouragement helps a student grow in the healthiest way. My students understand, especially the more experienced ones, understand the importance of putting work into their craft. I am there to give you the tools for success. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More