Voice Lessons in Hometown, IL

Instruments: Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For every student I always start with the basics. What are the basics? Well, first and most important for getting you started is open chords. That along with pentatonic scales will really help to develope finger dexterity and get the student adjusted to proper hand and finger positioning on the guitar. During that same period we will practice strumming patterns and exercises to fully bring the use of both hands up to a level that allows us to play simple songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

My experience with learning was fun. Since I was learning multiple instruments it was fun to tie everything together. I could say the best part while learning was understanding theory...that part of my learning opened up many doors for me musically. I started to understand why certain notes could and couldn't be played, why and how to use different scales. Those things are the same things I try to reveal to the students when the time is right. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I graduated in 2002 from Millikin University with a degree in Vocal Performance, where I also had the chance to study in Italy and perform in operas . Upon graduating, I started teaching! I am always learning more: studying broadway vocals, rock singing, and so much more. I am also one of a few certified CoreSinging instructors in the USA, trained by respected author and pedagogue Dr. Meribeth Dayme. I have also performed with Opera on Tap Chicago and the Lira Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

My approach is definitely supportive and positive, but I don't let that get in the way of challenging the student. I am not afraid to tell the student that they can do better. It's very important to get to know the student's goals and inspirations. That way, I can focus on the skills they need. Also, I like to let the student learn songs by artists they love (if applicable) because it motivates them and sometimes it ends up being the sound they want to go for anyway. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I had a wonderful opportunity to start teaching piano at the same place that I took piano throughout high school KD Music Arts, about 8 years ago. Since then, Ive taught piano and voice to students a variety of ageskids and adults! I love arranging my younger students favorite songs that they hear on the radio so they can play them on the piano, sometimes even playing rhythm video games on my Nintendo 3DS to brush up on their music theory skills :) I want my students to finish a lesson feeling like the possibilities that they have with music are endless. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching style is fun, focused, and efficient. I like to keep the environment positive and encouraging, as that is what helps a student progress the most! When a student first starts lessons, we establish a few goals to accomplish over the semester, such as "become more confident" or, "learn a foreign language piece". With these in mind, I will teach the lessons, pick warm ups, and select repertoire (with the student) accordingly! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use humor and my own experiences to first establish a caring environment in which the student can be comfortable. Once that connection is established, I like to find out the students interests and make sure a personal goal is set that we can achieve together. There has to be something exciting the student can achieve in order to develop self-motivation. I employ a number of tactics to stimulate self-expression and problem solving skills, as independent work and practice is crucial in any musician's journey. Read More