Saxophone Lessons in Niles, IL

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I set realistic goals for each lesson so that each student will be able to progress and show improvement on a quicker level and not get frustrated with too much work. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I believe every student pursues music for a different reason, so I approach every student with a custom curriculum. For all students I stress the importance of scales, arpeggios, ear training and scale patterns (3rds, 4ths, etc) to improve technical facility from the beginning. For beginners I typically use the Rubank Edute book to begin reading music. All students are introduced to 'Top Tones for the Saxophone' by Rascher early on to improve range, intonation, breath support and tone quality. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

Through those years, I made sure to always keep my door open to anyone who was seeking advice about music. While in my undergrad, I also had summers of teaching marching band and being a camp counselor. These experiences equipped me to not only educate kids musically but to mentor them as a role model in life. I have always taken advantage of an opportunity to learn and I feel as though I am able to instill that into my students when I work with them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

Understanding that every student has unique experiences, interests, strengths and weaknesses, I always work to ensure that lessons are to the benefit of the student. Instead of thinking of my role as a director who prescribes a set path, I like to think of private lessons as an opportunity for partnership, where I play the role of facilitator. To do so, I regularly check-in with students to build a lesson structure that works for them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard

I have had a desire to be an educator since I was in second grade. The first music ensemble I directed was a men's choir at Huntley High School in Huntley, Illinois. I proceeded to direct worship choirs and bands at Carthage College for my four years at Carthage. After Carthage I became the music teacher at Fratt Elementary School in Racine, Wisconsin where I taught general music and directed the annual fourth and fifth grade musical. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

Tommy S. currently holds a master's degree in clarinet performance from the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with Mr. Charles Neidich. Tommy also holds his bachelor's degree from Illinois State University, where he studied with Dr. David Gresham. Tommy has been a winner of the Illinois State University Concerto Competition, the King's Peak International Music Competition, and the Lillian Fuchs Chamber Music Competition. Tommy is currently 3rd/Bass Clarinet for the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Read More