Clarinet Lessons in Tower Lakes, IL

Instruments: Clarinet

I am a dedicated and patient instructor with many years teaching experience in many different settings. For the past ten years I was professor of clarinet and music technology at Mansfield University in rural northern Pennsylvania. I have recently returned to my hometown of Chicago for family reasons and I'm looking forward to teaching private students again. I completed my doctorate in clarinet perfomance at the University of Arizona, working with Jerry Kirkbride (Dorian Wind Quintet), in 2004. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Lessons are catered to each individual student. The lessons are set up to maintain a balance between fun (to keep them encouraged) and necessary exercises to build the foundations that will excel them to the next level. Such methods will include basic music understanding such as posture/finger positions, reading music, ear training, improvisation, finger-memory exercises, etc., where they will both purposefully learn techniques and unknowingly develop very important musical faculties. Read More

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: Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar

I meet students where they are, regardless of age and whether in individual or group settings, and establish a plan to get them where they need to be. The process is then made as challenging and yet fun as possible so that students enjoying exploring facets of themselves they would otherwise not know were there through the study and practice of music. Each student is different, and I cater to each student's individual needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

My teaching approach focuses primarily on tone production - I think this is the most important fundament to teach young students. I like to use the Hal Leonard Essential Elements or equivalent beginner book (Hovey, Rubank for clarinet) to start the student off, but as they become more advanced, it's important to introduce repertoire to them. I allow the student some individuality here - what kind of music would they like to play? Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I always start out just seeing where each student is at in their music career, no matter the age. Every student is different and might need a different approach. I personally am big on fundamental skills, such as embouchure, hand position, tongue position, and articulation as these are all important foundations to build both skill and fun off of. However, I know some people are more focused on just having a good time playing, and might take a different approach with that kind of player. Read More