Clarinet Lessons in Hoffman Estates, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I have a bachelor's degree in saxophone performance from Nazareth College and a master's degree in jazz performance from DePaul University. In pursuit of my degrees, I performed classical repertoire in solo recitals while also performing with jazz ensembles, wind ensembles, and saxophone ensembles. Additionally, I worked with various jazz and rock groups outside of school. I perform frequently throughout Chicagoland with various ensembles and have appeared at several of Chicago's top venues for jazz and improvised music. Read More

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

For beginning students I believe it's important for them to begin playing the first day. I get the students to make their first sound and teach the technique and theory as they learn their instrument. For beginning voice students I use the same method, but I like to use a song that the student knows. For students with experience I like to have them play or sing something they know and I evaluate that and I will work with them on that song and build their technique. 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 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: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon

It is important to me that each student progress at their own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. I make sure to always acknowledge accomplishments to help fuel the student's desire to progress and make them eager to learn more. By finding out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar

My teaching style is patient, encouraging, and focused on what the student wants to learn, by quickly getting them to play the music they want to they are motivated to practice.  It should be enjoyable first and foremost.  For those that aspire to be professionals, I make sure the student understands the dedication and discipline necessary to achieve their goals. No two students are alike in terms of the goals they have or the method of teaching that will be the most effective for them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

Tommy has been teaching since 2017. He has taught in both one-on-one and group lessons for students of all ages. Tommy has taught flute, clarinet, saxophone, and theory lessons to both beginning students and at the collegiate level. Tommy also performs with many different ensembles across a wide variety of genres. Tommy is 3rd/Bass Clarinetist for the Peoria Symphony Orchestra, runs the Delicious Bass Bass Clarinet Choir, runs the Elite Four Jazz Band, and is a reoccurring performer with the Oswego Chamber Musicians. Read More