Piano Lessons in Hodgkins, IL

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 Guitar Voice Trumpet Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

My experience with learning was fun. Since I was learning multiple instruments it was fun to tie everything together. I could say the best part while learning was understanding theory...that part of my learning opened up many doors for me musically. I started to understand why certain notes could and couldn't be played, why and how to use different scales. Those things are the same things I try to reveal to the students when the time is right. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My goal is to cultivate a relationship with music that will enrich the life of the student--of any level! I studied under two Jazz Messenger Alumni at Pitt, Leon Lee Dorsey, and Nathan Davis. In Chicago I got my MA at DePaul studying under Ron Perrillo, Dennis Carroll, and Dana Hall. I have blessed to perform with many important figures in jazz. Although jazz is my main focus, I truly love all forms of music and want to help the student mature their own taste and proficiency in whatever musical vain they desire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

First, I introduce a beginner student to the world of music. I play various interesting pieces on violin and/or piano, and give the student an opportunity to reproduce sounds on the instruments themselves, sing. This is how we get to know each other better. In the beginning its important not to focus on hand placement, on holding the instrument, I do not make it important for the future technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I typically start beginners with the Teaching Little Fingers to play books. After going through the books at whatever rate the student needs to retain information, I will move on to solo repertoire pieces that align with the students' interests and tastes. I remember my piano teacher when I was a child bringing over several books for me to choose from, and it was the most exciting thing. I do the same with my students, so that the learning stays fun and students get to reap the rewards of their hard work throughout the process. 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