Piano Lessons in Island Lake, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I work very closely with every student customizing lesson plans based on their needs. From the very first lesson, we figure out his/her goals and we write them down. Then I create a lesson plan specifically suited to get them to where they want to be. I often recommend specific songs or artists they should listen to as well as certain books and practice exercises that gravitate towards reaching their goal and most importantly; true potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Music

For beginners, introductory lesson books are very helpful for teaching the fundamentals of reading and playing music. I take a split approach with students working on basics such as scales/arpeggios along with repertoire so students can develop multiple skills at one time. I approach technique for both cello and piano as the art of releasing tension in the body while achieving the desired sound of the instrument. The goal is to play efficiently and relaxed, as this is the most productive and safe way to make music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola

My methods depend on the student's age, what they may have already begun in lessons with another teacher, and I also take into consideration the assessment of their learning style-choosing a method that works best for their needs. Basically you could say that I have no 'one' method. I have as many methods as I have students because every single student deserves for me to take the time to get to know them and to find out what educational practices will fit best with their learning style and personality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Piccolo

I always figure out where a student is at, and prefer to grow off the student's strengths as opposed to harping on their weaknesses. I have been in lessons before where teachers couldn't get past the smallest details, and these ruined the experience for me, as well as greatly affected what I was able to accomplish in my lessons. The opposite is also true, in that I have had teachers that haven't even informed me of a weakness that I had, and I wasn't able to improve because of it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

In my private lesson, you'll gain an understanding, not only of the piano and how to play it in many different styles, but also of music, how it works and how songs are formed and structured. You are about to begin a journey of playing the piano that will take you as far as you are willing and able to go. I will give you everything you need to learn to play the piano by ear, along with lots of extras. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginner students that are younger, age 5 or 6, I will use the Faber primer lesson books. For older children, I like to use either Faber or Schaum Series music books. For adults I use either Faber or Alfred series music books. I purchase the books for the students and ask that the students reimburse me the cost of the books. I also will use various sheet music of favorite songs the student would be interested in. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

Mary started her professional music career at age 11, playing pipe organ. Since 1999, Mary has released her original music on the Internet. She has been invited to perform at music festivals and conferences across the United States. After years of releasing EPs, in 2010, Mary released her first full-length CD, "Eclectic." Since releasing "Eclectic," Mary has performed at Six Flags Great America twice and was a Semi-Finalist in the 2011 Song of the Year songwriting contest. Read More