Piano Lessons in Galena, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer French Horn

For the past 20 years, I've studied and performed with keyboards, guitars and woodwind instruments while exploring a very wide variety of music ranging from classical and rock to jazz and avant-garde. Expanding and sharing that knowledge with other people in a helpful and friendly manner is something that I consummately enjoy- especially if they're beginning where I once was. My education includes a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition from DePaul University, and I've been working on my Music Education Certificate at UMSL since August 2014. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute

My approach to teaching is very "person-centered"- in that I will adapt to the needs of the student. I do not have one stuanch approach in teaching music. I want to help students engage early on in "Music Experiences"- not just learning scales, but truly playing music with me, improvising, and enjoying themsevles. This sort of music work really formsm the bedrock of my music lesson and music therapy practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginners at the start of the lessons, I usually get the know each student. Why would they like to learn? and What would they like to learn on guitar?; in order to make some reachable goals! Some will prefer to learn how to just physically play the guitar, and others may want a little more in depth understanding about the theory behind it and how to read music. When it comes to children, I believe the best way to keep them engaged and wanting to learn more is by making these lessons as fun as possible, while keeping nice and easy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder Music Keyboard

I believe it is important to teach to the individual. Each student will require a different path to success and therefore, I will choose the method that best fits with their learning style, personality and interests. In addition, it is important to rememeber that many students are successful with their own guided learning plan instead of following a book. However, there are also students who thrive with the step by step stylized learnin plan only a method can provide. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

My teaching approach focuses primarily on tone production - I think this is the most important fundament to teach young students. I like to use the Hal Leonard Essential Elements or equivalent beginner book (Hovey, Rubank for clarinet) to start the student off, but as they become more advanced, it's important to introduce repertoire to them. I allow the student some individuality here - what kind of music would they like to play? Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; I'm teaching. I’m an avid columnist for Modern Drummer Magazine and I sing/play guitar for one of Chicago's best Nirvana tributes called Smells Like Nirvana. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Synthesizer French Horn Keyboard

I usually prefer a phone call or use the first lesson to guage the interest level, previous experience, and goals of the student and/or parents. I have used a variety of teaching books and methods, and will generally try to contour my methods to the needs of students while also keeping costs low. I do not often rquire students to purchase expensive music books, and prefer using repetoire and music directly relevant to students long and short-term goals. Read More