Music Lessons in La Grange Park, IL

Instruments: Drums

I've been teaching private lessons for about three years. My teaching emphasizes practical drumming skills that get students off their feet quickly if they are a beginner, and help move beyond technique and shape musicianship if they are an intermediate player. I put a heavy focus on helping the student become a well rounded musician first and foremost through content that they enjoy. This means addressing the role of the drums and other instruments in music, and encouraging discussion about how advanced drummers make artistic choices. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

When I first sit down with a student, my number one goal is to figure out what they are excited about. I personally never spent much time practicing music that I wasn't excited about, so I don't expect my students to either. Whether it ends up being rock, classical, jazz, folk, or maybe a specific band or artist, I feel that students learn best when they are excited about the music they are learning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

Understanding that every student has unique experiences, interests, strengths and weaknesses, I always work to ensure that lessons are to the benefit of the student. Instead of thinking of my role as a director who prescribes a set path, I like to think of private lessons as an opportunity for partnership, where I play the role of facilitator. To do so, I regularly check-in with students to build a lesson structure that works for them. 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: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

My preferred method for very young students has been the Suzuki method, as I believe a well trained ear continues to be our best musical learning tool later in life as well. When students progress to reading, the full line of Suzuki books can of course be utilized, but it is very advisable to incorporate additional materials and techniques. The Kodaly method is also useful and even more traditional 'reading first' techniques can be used if requested. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Personally I am interested in many different genres of music (classical voice, jazz voice, classical piano, jazz piano, accompanying), and in college I was able to take many different kinds of lessons to fulfill my needs. As a result, I feel very comfortable teaching others about all sorts of different genres of music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

For beginning students, I typically start with the Piano Adventures series. I learned from those books and they provide a well-rounded foundation of technique, lesson material, and performance material. That series also begins teaching basic music theory from the start. Piano Adventures is also great for visual learners- with pictures and diagrams to help understand the concepts in the lessons. My goal is to start students with strong technique and a practice plan. Read More