Music Lessons in River Grove, IL

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

I started teaching piano while in college. The spectrum of my students was varied from their ages to their experience. I found that I could make a greater impact on the progress of my students not only by incorporating organized lesson plans, but also by creating a fun and nurturing environment. My success in motivating and teaching my students was based on making learning fun. I never forget about the importance of music theory, but I also understand each student is unique. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I try to keep lessons fun even though there's aspects that might be boring. So, I will switch from snare drum to drum set. Learning how to combine rudiments with drum set music such as jazz and rock is very beneficial. When my students are having trouble with a certain area, I do well with taking out that area and making a drill out of it. One of my specialties is that I will play the bass with students for various styles so they can have a hands on experience of the relationship of a rhythm section, phrasing, and timing. 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

Instruments: Piano Trombone Euphonium Music

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with a compilation of books that I have founded very helpful through my research in methods or etudes. There is a goal per lesson which should be aproached easily to practice. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I am an experienced and enthusiastic musician who enjoys sharing the joy of music with students young and old. I have performed professionally with small jazz ensembles, classical saxophone quartets, show bands (Rita Moreno, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, and more), orchestras (Madison and Milwaukee Symphonies), big bands (Russ Morgan, Dick Sargent, Paula Carberry, Al Chase, Karlos Moser), and was a founding member of the Madison Arts Players at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Read More

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

I have been teaching and tutoring private students of all ages for over fifteen years. I take great pride in seeing my students succeed and have great performances; whether it be in front of thousands of fans at a venue, or for their family and friends in the living room. I am a life-long student of music and it has enhanced my life in a way that only the arts can, and I love sharing and providing this experience with all of my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I believe that each student has something unique to bring to the table, and that students should feel that they are valued because of their cultural identities, not in spite of them. I also believe that music in itself can be used as a means through which the world can be impacted for good. Bringing students to a positive outlet such as this, can bring about passion within themselves, for both music and other issues in the world, music being the way they express this passion and use it to send a message. Read More