Voice Lessons in Chicago, IL

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
If I wasn't a musician - I would have wanted to be an athlete. I love the way I feel when I am fully immersed in physical activity. I love working with people and helping people feel good about themselves - so I would also like to be a life - coach.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
I have two instruments. My voice, and piano. I find improvisation to be the most challenging skill. It requires a lot of coordination and understanding of harmony,.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
We always had a piano and my mother was a pianist herself. It was the most accessible instrument for me to learn at home. I always enjoyed singing - so i began taking voice lessons in my teenage years.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
Be sure to practice the day after your lesson while remembering everything covered with your teacher. A few minutes of practicing is still precious. Do not worry if you do not have a lot of time. Play as often as you can!

What is your favorite style/genre of music to play and why?
I enjoy playing and singing any style of music. That is part of the fun for me. I was a jazz singer in NYC for many years - and that is certainly one of my greatest loves. I love improvising and interacting with live musicians.

Does music run in your family? Tell us a little about your musical family members.
My great- grandmother, grandmother, mother and aunt are all professional pianists. They all attended the music conservatory in Russia. Everyone practiced piano daily and I was exposed to many styles and attended many performances.

When did you decide to become a professional musician? Was it a gradual decision or was there a defining moment for you?
When I was living in NY at 18 years old - I wandered into a jazz club one day. I did not know that it was an "open mic" night - but the band leader came over to my table and asked me if I was a singer. I did not consider myself one - but I agreed to go on stage and sing anyway. This was a defining moment for me. The band leader suggested that I put together my own show, and we began to rehearse together regularly. From that moment on - I performed in NY consistently and I have never stopped!

What does a normal practice session look like for you?
A normal practice session includes some ear training games, improvisation, and repertoire. I carefully select material based on the student's interest and preferences. I play several selections for the student to choose from.

If you have a Music Degree, what is it in (Performance, Education, Musicology, Theory, Composition, etc) and why did you choose that degree?
At the age of 18, I began performing in jazz clubs in New York City with wonderful musicians, many of whom were persuing degrees, or had graduated already. I decided that I wanted to increase my skills and pursue a lifetime career as a musician.

What is your dream piece to perform and why?
My dream piece is inspired by my audience in the moment. I enjoy taking requests and engaging with my audience. I am also inspired by the musicians I am working with on stage.

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
I supplement my own method with workbooks that help with note recognition and musical concepts. Alfred is my favorite Notespeller. I have developed many of my own materials and visual aids which I use in my classes. During my 25 years of teaching - I have collected hundreds of songs for all levels and I enjoy sharing them with my students.

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
If you're not sure if your child is ready for private lessons - try a group class! You can have several children in a class together. They will motivate each other and have more fun!

When will I start to see results?
Immediately! My style of teaching will build fundamental skills that will show immediate results! The student will develop their aural listening skills and gain the tools to work on their own musicianship skills.

Have any of your students won awards or been selected for special honors? How have they succeeded?
Many of my students are studying music at the University. They are regularly asked to perform for events in the University. I have prepared some of my students to play for their church services. I believe in practical application of skills!

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am most proud of being a live performer. I enjoy engaging with fellow musicians on the stage and creating meaningful and beautiful moments with a live audience.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
I was born into a household of professional classical pianists. Everyone was playing and practicing daily. Naturally - I wanted to do it too. My mother was my very first piano teacher.

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