Piano Lessons in Ritchie, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Coming back to goal setting, each student will want something a little different out of it from the next. So I find it helpful to ask and figure out; if there's a specific song they wish to learn, what some of their favorite artists are so we may get a grasp what style they are into, or just want to learn about music in general so that one day they may be able to create their own original work. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Keyboard

That's where I get my joy. In High School, I was awarded the "Louis Armstrong Achievement Award" in jazz for playing drum set for the jazz band. In college, I performed with the HBCU All-star band during their National Band Directors Consortium. I was awarded first chair percussion. I've been playing Gospel Piano since 1998 and refined my skills at Chicago State University where I obtained my Bachelors of Music Education. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My lessons are about technique and applying the technique to repertoire. I spend about a third of the lesson on specific technique work and I always encourage students to bring in their own material that we can work on as well. I of course always have songs to suggest and I cater to each individual student's needs. If you need a high song, I'll find a high one. If you need a pop song, I'll find a pop song. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

First I think it is important to get to know the student and chat about what their intentions are musically. Then I can customize a lesson plan for them which includes warming up, techniques, and repertoire. I sometimes find it helpful to discuss of elements music theory, aural skills, and reading music depending on the students desires in those areas. I strive to motivate students by picking material they are excited about. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar

Included in these experiences was Chicagoland regular rotation play on XRT's local music showcase and an interview on the Flabby Hoffman Show. While attending UIC I even dabbled in theatre, and though I I had little to no experiece as an actor, I achieved a lead role in three out of the four productions I was cast in. Of these four, two were rock musicals, including the Who's "Tommy." As you can see, my whole life is music.I love to teach, perform and compose music.Although I love all these elements of music, I would have to say that my greatest joy comes from seeing my students progress towards becoming accomplished musicians.Whatever your goals may be, I take great pride in helping you attain them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music Keyboard

To me, the key element for a successful learning experience is to engage the student in the lesson and during their individual practice. I have battled with ADHD my whole life and I distinctly remember daydreaming during many of my classes in college, retaining little-to-no information. It is very difficult to engage with a topic as complex as music, but it is crucial to absorb every second. My main priority during a lesson is engaging to student in the session material, typically fun and exciting ways. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

I have used many methods books for piano and flute. When I started teaching lessons, I lived in a military town. Since these students moved a lot, I would continue teaching out of the books they were currently using to keep they're progress consistent. I still have this philosophy unless a student is unhappy with their current method. When I start a beginning student, I like to use Alfred's Premier Course. Read More