Piano Lessons in Great Lakes, IL

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

Im an enthusiastic and accepting teacher who enjoys building students confidence and lifelong enjoyment of music! In 2014, I graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelors in music composition with a focus on classical piano and voice, then moved to Chicago to get my Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Columbia College in music composition for film and media. Writing music for orchestras was the most unforgettable part of my experience there! Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard

As an educator it is my goal for students to be able to communicate through the language of music. Whether the student is a beginner or advanced, the first thing they will be taught is to listen and respond. Ive always believed that the best way to learn music is as if you are learning a foreign language. When learning a language, one is given a small amount of vocabulary, they learn what it means, and practice using it in conversations. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

For beginning voice students, I focus on opening and relaxing the throat by way of diaphragm support and healthy, strong breathing. These are the fundamentals of good singing, regardless of the style.We work on these techiniques with both vocal exercises and repertoire.From there, I focus on the student's quality of tone and helping them find their "natural voice." The best singers use their authentic sound, and are not a second-rate imitation of someone else. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music Keyboard

I am an educator, composer, and instrumentalist with a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. Over the past few years I have been fortunate to share the stage with artists like Bernard Purdie (drummer for Aretha Franklin), Donny Mccaslin (Saxophonist for David Bowie), and Cassandra O'Neil (Keyboardist for Prince). While I love performing, my heart lies with composing. I work primarily as a composer for film and TV, although I regularly write music for the concert hall as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I am a huge optimist when it comes to my teaching style. As I cater to each student, we will always celebrate the small wins! Singing is not a linear process but rather a journey that takes time and as long as you try, I will be right by your side rooting for you consistently to be the best you that you can be! In the journey of opening and discovering the voice, I remind students of the physical and mental advantages they can use in order for clear tones and healthy technique! Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

Later, I went to Concord University in Athens, West Virginia from 1971-1974 where I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and organ performance. Starting in 1979-1985, a Master of Applied Music and Organ Performance at Norfolk State University in Virginia where my teachers were Dr. Allen Shaffer and Dr. Carl Haywood. More recently, I attended Concordia University in Chicago completing a Master of Church Music and Organ in 2011. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I allow the students to progress at their own pace, and I love developing in them a passion for learning the piano. Learning to play the piano should be fun! Some of the process can be repetitive, but helping students see the payoff makes the repetitive part worth it. I am a positive, encouraing person. Students are comfortable with me and enjoy the lessons because of my attitude towards it. Read More