Clarinet Lessons in Medinah, IL

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a professional musician and educator who has lived in Chicagoland with my wife and two boys for the last 18 years. I'm originally from Columbus, Ohio and received my BM from Capital University there. From there I was Music Director for one of Royal Caribbean's ships and then I made the move to Chicago in mid-1996. From then until now I have become one of the top/first call saxophonist/woodwind musicians in the city of Chicago and have performed all over the world with musical lumaries such as Aretha Franklin, The OJays, Brian McKnight, Diana Ross, Al Jarreau, The Temps and dozens of others! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Electric Guitar Djembe

In essence, my love of teaching stems from my Mom's love of teaching. She sincerely desired to teach my siblings and myself to pursue our highest dreams. It turned out that I did succeed as a star performer in music, on stages around the world. But also, when I decided to settle down, I added education to my 10-year plan. So, I went back to school for another master's degree, and taught music in CPS - performing three nights per week with my the Bartels/Benson duo, Connexion Band, Prohibition Orchestra, Bryan Skyler Trio, and other groups. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I am a clarinetist and pedagogue based in Chicago. As a freelance performer, I have presented solo recitals throughout Illinois and can frequently be found woodwind doubling in musical theater pits around Chicago. As a teacher, I have experience with students of all ages and abilities both in my own studio and as a faculty member of The People’s Music School. I received a Master of Music from DePaul University (2017), where I studied with Chicago Symphony Orchestra principal clarinetist Stephen Williamson and renowned pedagogue Julie DeRoche. 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: 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

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My method of teaching is based in the standard pedagogy of scales and chords(arpeggios). Those who are beginner and intermediate I usually start with the Rubank series of method books as well as easy to play popular tunes. For those who are at the advanced level I would teach out of the Baermann method book in addition to the Rose studies as well as Kroepsch, Jean-Jean, and Rode. We could also try working on any of the clarinet concertos and sonatas. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

Every student is unique in their ability level, dedication to the instrument/craft, et. al; therefore, I cannot expect that every student will be the next Larry Combs. I do, however, expect that every student take their responsibility for practicing each week, coming prepared to lessons, and being a good student. In lessons, I am kind and personable as anyone should be, but I like to make clear my expectations right from the beginning. Read More