Piano Lessons in Wilmington, IL

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

Throughout my music career, I had amazing teachers that helped me grow as a musician.  I have taken the best of these experiences to help me become a better teacher.  I strive to create a passion for music through learning, positive reinforcement and by creating an environment that is nurturing.  While I believe in structure, discipline and hard work, I also want my learning environment to be fun.  Building a strong foundation in music theory is important, but finding and unleashing the students passion for music is just as important.  I developed my passion for music because I fell in love with learning about different music genres.  I also want to learn and understand the music interests of my students.  Knowing this helps me develop lesson plans that revolve around that type of music.  I want my students to be engaged, and I want them to be interested in what they play.  This helps in the learning process; it becomes less of a work mindset, and more of a fun mindset.  I always acknowledge milestones and accomplishments of my students.  I want my students to feel comfortable asking questions.  I creat a safe, trusting, and nurturing environment for my students to grow as musicians.  

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar

I’ve been playing Guitar and Singing since I was 9 years old.  Almost all of this was self-taught until I attended Columbia for Music theory and Composition after high school.  There, I was ranked the top rated guitarist on fret-board jury for two semesters in a row, I was an examplary student and began my journey towards becoming and an accomplished pianist.  Starting at the age of 12, I founded my first band and have played in a variety of original and cover bands ever since.   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.  

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I started teaching towards the end of high school and continued in college and beyond!  I found it beneficial to be teaching students while still being a student myself. Having great teachers in my life has shaped my own approach to teaching.  I discovered that when I was able to study what I was truly excited about, my capacity to learn and improve my craft increased exponentially!  To that end, I encourage students to bring in original material as well as "covers" that they are interested in to build a repertoire. I find that this allows them to practice more which is such a big aspect of this journey. I am excited about teaching students of all ages and levels of experience!  

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

I began teaching people how to play instruments when I was in high school, by teaching new students to the band how to play percussion. I then continued teaching once in college by volunteering at local high schools helping new students to the band programs learn brass and percussion. From there I worked with the Rich South high school band director and the Jack Hille middle school band directors. Once I graduated college I taught choir and instrumental music for the catholic school system for two years. Then I received my current job with Chicago Public Schools as the music director starting the schools first music program.