Music Lessons in River Forest, IL

Instruments: Guitar Voice Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Notebooks! I'm a big believer in writing things down so before your lesson, don't only bring your guitar but also a notebook to write down what we learned, and what you should practice before our next lesson. It is vital that students have a physical reminder of our lessons and the techniques we covered, because in my experience, I've found this really helps with not only learning but retaining the information we go over. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

Beginning or advanced, all students require constant attention and care to their fundamentals. Scales, long tones, and articulation excercises should be addressed at every lesson, allowing a simple and clear opportunity to discuss these issues. Simultaneously, from the very beginning students should be given the chance to make music. No music, no excitement! It is important to maintain good communication with students about their hopes and desires for their art. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Mastering technique is the surest way to leave the student free to express themselves musically. After an initial assessment is made of the student's voice, I create a series of vocal exercises to address any vocal weaknesses/problems. The first 20 minutes of a typical lesson are spent warming up/performing technical exercises. The remainder of the lesson focuses on applying what was learned technically to the music that the student and teacher have chosen. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

I am currently a Jazz Studies/Music Performance Major with an emphasis on drum set at Northern Illinois University. I recently completed my third year and will soon begin my third year. I have a passion for performing and can be seen performing with multiple bands in the DeKalb area and in the Chicago area. Major performances/recordings include the following: Waukegan Symphony Orchestra (2016), PASIC Artist (2018), and one studio recording with the band Warped Wonder (2019). Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Music

For beginners, introductory lesson books are very helpful for teaching the fundamentals of reading and playing music. I take a split approach with students working on basics such as scales/arpeggios along with repertoire so students can develop multiple skills at one time. I approach technique for both cello and piano as the art of releasing tension in the body while achieving the desired sound of the instrument. The goal is to play efficiently and relaxed, as this is the most productive and safe way to make music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I will typically use the first lesson as an initial assessment of the student's personality and his/her skills. I ask the student what they would like to learn with the understanding that I will provide some of my own technical and theoretical knowledge. I like to create general lesson plans before each meeting so that I have some kind of outline to follow. I try to adhere to the student's progress timeline with the understanding that they need to be pushed a little out of their comfort zone if they want to see improvements. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone

I am an experienced and versatile trombonist and educator living in Chicago. I hold a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from DePaul University and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Denver.. I have been teaching and playing professionally for over 7 years. My professional experiences include playing in big bands, small jazz ensembles, musical theater productions, salsa bands, wedding bands, funk groups, and traveling the world performing aboard cruise ships. Read More