Violin Lessons in Des Plaines, IL

Instruments: Violin Viola

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Clarinet Recorder Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I never imagined God had plans for me to be a music teacher. I had taken piano lessons for about 15 years (later adding recorder, guitar, violin, clarinet, saxophone, and cello) and was working as a front desk receptionist in a music school when a teacher notified us of an unexpected long-term absence. My boss--who had known me for almost 20 years, and who taught me piano-- approached me and said she would like ME to teach the affected students. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I believe in inspiring the upmost confidence in my students right from the beginning. Young musicians should never feel intimidated, and should want to share their talent with others. Music is unlike any other extra curricular activity in the lives of young ones. Through the arts, a teacher is able to impose the education of feeling. It is important that children grow up knowing that there are multiple solutions to a problem, and music is a great way to instill that idea. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

The first lesson is always partly an interview so I can understand exactly what the student's goals are. I typically establish good posture and breathing habits (or bowing and fingering, if violin) first and then move on to essential warm-up exercises. Those exercises then become their regular homework, to hopefully be practiced multiple times a week or if possible, every day. I remind the student of breathing and posture regularly - good habits are the goal! Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I love using the Suzuki method for skill building, but I also believe that students should be musically literate! I utilize supplemental books, such as "I Can Read Music," Essential Elements, and other sight-reading materials to encourage note-reading from the get-go. All of my students, including those who are 4 years old read notes. I emphasize etudes (studies), scales, warm-ups, physical stretches, and favorite songs of my students as part of a balanced repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Violin

The best feeling is watching a student progress week by week. By opening up their minds to the world of music, I believe a student can learn more about themselves and the world around them. I always encourage of art of listening with my students. Whether it be a specfic sonata or just a classical music and/or jazz mix tape. When a student knows the potential for talent that exists, it makes the desire to be a good musician even bigger. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

I adjust my teaching based on the particular student. For adults I take the lessons in whatever direction they like. Subjects covered are more often than not dictated by the student's interest. For children I do take their interests into account but also guide them towards getting better at their instrument. Reading music is an important thing for all my students. Read More