Music Lessons in Westchester, IL

Instruments: Voice Music

For beginning students, be they young or seasoned, I start from the very beginning with breathing and the anatomy of the body as it pertains to singing. As my students progress (or depending on their understanding of the basics) I move into more detailed work, such as how to feel and focus the placement of the sound in a locations within the singing mechanism. For adults, or pupils with more advanced understanding, I focus on musicality and how to use the lyrics and to make the song more interesting and grab the audience's attention. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar

I always ask my students what they want to learn; I then fit the program to their needs.  If they want to be a rock lead player, than we learn the scales, theory, techniques needed.  If they want to play finger picked folk music, then we focus on those techniques and songs.  I always recommend a strong background in theory and reading but I introduce it when the student is ready for it.  Nothing is learned in a vacumn.  There is always a purpose to anything I teach. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

90% of being a good saxophonist is the responsibility of the student, and 10% is on the teacher. Even though a student should work hard to improve, I recognize that my 10% is extremely vital. Since my scheduled lesson with a student only represents a fraction of the time they play their horn, I keep it fun, upbeat, and encouraging. If a student is struggling with an assignment, it will be met with kindness and patience. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

I strive to ignite passion in my students. With passion, a student will be able to express themselves musically in any way they would like through their instrument. By doing so, these students may go out into the real-world and say what they need to say and communicate with other musicians. This will not only develop their musical sense but also will develop their personality and their way of life. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My ultimate goal as an educator is for each student to find their love for trumpet and music making. I push my students to be the best musicians they can, so with each student I create realistic and measurable goals. My approach is very student centered, so I make myself available outside of lessons to clarify or answer any questions the student may come up. I believe that each student learns in their own way, so I develop an educational plan specifically tailored to the students strengths and weaknesses. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Oboe English Horn

I tend to use the Rubank Method Books and Essential Element books for the essential warm-up, practice and to gain valuable techniques that are often overlooked with classroom teachers. For both students and adults I feel it is necessary to have fun while progressing forward. 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