Piano Lessons in Evanston, IL

Instruments: Guitar Violin Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
I do prefer essential elements, artist compilation books, theory handouts/worksheets, and sheet music. I tend to stay away from Suzuki methods since I find it too dependent on intervals rather than learning how to read sheet music properly.

What does a normal practice session look like for you?
I practice every day if I can. I generally recommend a practice be at least 30 minutes. I begin my practices by tuning and warming up which usually consists of working on older material, running through scales, etc. I like to keep practice logs so I check what I noted I've been working on, what I feel I want to keep working on, and I begin designing exercises to help me achieve that goal. I separate my content by focusing on different aspects such as precision, rhythm, speed, volume, and so forth. I close out by playing all the way through what I've been working on a few times and then leave some time at the end for creativity/improvising. See what you can make with what you have learned and then fill out practice log.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
I think keeping a practice log/journal of some kind and having moments of mindfulness and reflection during each practice is really important. I believe that what you put in is what you get, so get practicing! We will set realistic goals. Learning a skill like an instrument is a lifelong process. You will always be improving and learning new things if you keep with it.

Does music run in your family? Tell us a little about your musical family members.
No, I am the only one with a musical bone in my family. My family loves music and have always encouraged me but thankfully I had friends growing up that also played instruments and I played in school.

If you play more than one instrument, how did you decide to start playing the second? (Or 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc)!
I began with violin but that was through school. I picked up guitar, ukulele, and some piano through private lessons and self-instruction. Once you understand some general music theory and are familiar with an instrument, I find it is easier to start learning others. I'm always learning and improving though!

What is your favorite style/genre of music to play and why?
I think there is something of musical value in almost anything I listen to. I may not enjoy the style but maybe there was an interesting rhythm or effect. I try to share this mentality with my students and ensure we explore the different ranges music has to offer. I personally most enjoy blues/jazz, soul, and rock.

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
I teach music part-time. I am currently working to obtain my Massachusetts Teaching License in second language acquisition. I love music but I don't want it to be my main career so that is what I will be doing instead!

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
It does require a certain level of maturity and concentration in order to fully grasp the logic of music theory and to apply that to playing an instrument.

When will I start to see results?
Learning music and an instrument is a lifelong process. You will learn things day 1 that you use for as long as you continue to play and practice. You will always be building from a foundation so the only place to go is up!

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
Even though I began with violin, I would say guitar is my main instrument. I generally practice and play it more since it is so versatile. Violin is a bit more specialized but fun and interesting nonetheless.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
Personally, I have always struggled with sweep picking on guitar. If you're not familiar I'd recommend looking up some videos online. I've always wanted to be able to do them and can somewhat but not to the degree I would like. I would argue that is one of the hardest guitar techniques I've encountered. For violin, a lot of people have issues with shifting.

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