Piano Lessons in Western Springs, IL

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music Keyboard

A lot of the students I worked with were severely struggling with music at first, many of whom felt extremely insecure. The most important factor is making sure a student is comfortable. It is terrifying to play an instrument that you may be feeling insecure about, and a condescending or arrogant teacher will only reinforce the insecurities. I try my best to create a relaxed and animated environment to combat the initial insecurities. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone Euphonium Music

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 10 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the trombone, piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

For beginning students, I typically start with the Piano Adventures series. I learned from those books and they provide a well-rounded foundation of technique, lesson material, and performance material. That series also begins teaching basic music theory from the start. Piano Adventures is also great for visual learners- with pictures and diagrams to help understand the concepts in the lessons. My goal is to start students with strong technique and a practice plan. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

I build each lesson around the needs of each student and what they would like to accomplish. I help them set reasonable practice and achievement goals. If there is a style of music they would like to learn or a particular song, I try to fit it in with the lesson and use it as a teaching tool as well. Proper technique is the foundation for exceptional performance. I spend at least 5-10 minutes each lesson on technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano

An important component in my teaching process is assessment. First I need to understand long-term goals of the student. What does "taking piano lessons" mean to you. If you want to learn piano and go through Bach preludes and Brahms reductions great! But that is not the entire scope of what private lessons can offer an individual. Often the student doesn't know what specifically excites him/her. For younger students especially, broadening horizons is important. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard

The moment when a students finally understands a difficult concept, succeeds at a performance, masters a new technique, or has an amazing breakthrough is why I teach. I love to see the joy in the students faces and see how proud they are when they accomplish the tasks at hand. I like to reward and acknowledge successes because a student who feels successful has a higher chance of being successful. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Music Keyboard

Luke’s Lutheran Church Concert Series, and the CCPA Guitar Ensemble. My academic endeavors include primary research on Marta Gentilucci conducted with Eastman School of Music at IRCAM in Paris, France. Rebecca will be continuing her research on Post-Spectralist vocal practices along with performing new works by living composers at the N.E.O. Voice Festival next summer. I have also premiered works by composers such as Scott Havener and Nicolas Turnbrrez. Read More