Piano Lessons in Norridge, IL

Instruments: Piano

Alfred Publishing piano courses (both older and newer), Faber and Faber, Bastien, Edna Mae Burnam, and the Hal Leonard course have all been among my pre-published methods that I have used over the years. I have also adopted some technic content from elsewhere. For example, the Zion Conservatory of Music, where I taught from 2004 to 2018, uses a couple of different customized scale patterns for first- and second-year students. A book I have used with intermediate students is a Conus Russian piano method edited by James and Susan McKeever, who taught the Parkside piano pedagogy courses. 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 Trombone Euphonium Music

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with a compilation of books that I have founded very helpful through my research in methods or etudes. There is a goal per lesson which should be aproached easily to practice. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Each of my students learns to read music, practices sight singing, and learns solfege. In my opinion, these are the neccessary fundamentals to being a great singer AND musician! Each student also does warm ups including breathing exercises, vocal technique exercises, and vocalises. Picking repertoire is always a lot of fun, and the choice of song is a shared decision between teacher and student! I try to tailor the lesson and approach to each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Singing and music has been part of my life since I can remember and I get so much joy helping people achieve their goals. I am a passionate and enthusiastic actress, singer, dancer, pianist, and teaching artist here in Chicago. I am a graduate of the Bachelor of Fine Arts Musical Theater program at the University of the Arts, where I realized my love of teaching while tutoring struggling music theory students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

In my last semester at Butler, I student taught at Avon High School for band and Franklin Township Middle School East for choir. Responsibilities at the former included sole direction of Concert Percussion, intermediate Symphonic Band, and AP Music Theory, and at the latter 7th Grade General Music and 8th Grade Mixed Choir. While at Butler, I was also principal clarinetist of both the Butler Symphony and the Butler Ballet Orchestras, and at one point principal of the Wind Ensemble as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

I encourage regular lesson attendance and practice at home. Consistency is key when learning and developing a new skill set especially when concerning younger students. I feel that the balance of establishing a strong technical foundation and fostering a love for music is fundamental in fostering passion and enthusiasm for new students. I try and find out what the student is interested in and tailor each lesson to their specific needs. Read More