Music Lessons in Schiller Park, IL

Instruments: Saxophone

I'm a very creative musician with unending curiosity and a passion for people. My journey on the saxophone started over 15 years ago, and will continue as long as I can make a sound on the horn. In 2008, I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Valparaiso University. I have come to consider myself an eternal student, and seek out performing opportunities that lead me into uncharted musical territory. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar

I have been teaching guitar, electric bass, and woodwinds for over 30 years.  I have a Bachelor of Arts from Northeastern Illinois University.  I have performed all over the Chicago area in a variety of Rock, Americana, Country, Folk, Blues, and Celtic ensembles.  I write original songs and compose music for dance and film. Some of the bands I have been in include; The Flynn Brothers Blues Band, Small World, Honeysuckle Road, Body Parts, Al Day and the Victors, and I have also performed with Bo Diddley as his bass player. 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: Violin Music

I like to provide a variety of methods for instruction. This includes three different forms of learning, Visual, Aural, and Kinesthetic. This is especially true for younger ages. Its important for me to engage all of the students senses while teaching since it is essential to play. Use technique and repertoire as a source of learning. I like to start students out with Essential Elements 2000 Vol. 1. This method book is a means of learning technique and introduces smaller glimpses of repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My teaching style revolves around the student and their needs. I encourage all my students to take charge of their lessons by asking them to develop questions throughout the week, prioritize what music we focus on, and tune into their own weaknesses and strengths. While I will guide them along the way, I want my students to gain the confidence to make decisions for themselves. At the end of each lesson, I will often have my students establish their own goals and create a plan to effectively execute them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

for the beginner student, we will start off by going through things such as scales, arpeggios, and exercises to build a solid foundation. While doing this, I will have the student pick a song they like, whether it be pop, country, jazz, classical, and begin to learn it by ear to begin to develop solid aural recognition. Once the fundamentals are solid, we will move on to either working on a sonata or concerto or a transcription and a tune (depending on if you are a jazz student or classical). Read More

Instruments: Voice

I am an engaged, driven teacher who loves guiding a student's exploration with his/her voice. Performing in Chicago and throughout the US, I enjoy singing with small local companies as well as companies like the MN Opera. I have had the opportunity to perform overseas, as a soloist for The Messiah in London, as well as in Florence. I look forward to using my performance experience to inform lessons. Read More