Guitar Lessons in Thornton, IL

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods vary according to the student.  If the student is less than 12 years old, I like to use the Hal Leonard Method 1 book.  If the student is 12 or older, I may still use the Hal Leonard book, but I assess the students goals, and find out what they would like to learn.  Whatever style of music the student is interested in learning, I believe in teaching proper posture and sound technique.  For anyone interested in learning classical guitar, I recommend a book titled Pumping Nylon by Scott Tennant. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; I'm teaching. I’m an avid columnist for Modern Drummer Magazine and I sing/play guitar for one of Chicago's best Nirvana tributes called Smells Like Nirvana. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's guitar lesson books 1-3. I also have material for younger children. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce songs of artists they would like to learn. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I've been teaching private lessons since 2010. I remember how excited my first student was during our first lesson, as he was learning the chords to his favorite Metallica song. The experience was profoundly motivating for both of us. As a teacher, there's nothing more enjoyable than watching students blossom into the musicians they've dreamed of becoming. During the summer of 2013, I worked as the musical director for a staging of "Waiting for Lefty" at Oracle Productions in Chicago. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Clarinet Recorder Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

Because I accept children as young as 3, my methods vary quite drastically. I also work with children who have learning disabilities, so I like to cater my lessons to the needs of the student. We play a LOT of games and when I feel they are ready, they can progress to books. I use everything from Hal Leonard and Bastien to Alfred and Faber Faber. Being a Special Education Aide, I understand that no book is a one size fits all". Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I happily teach at a pace that is comfortable for the student. If he or she only has time for a couple hours of practice a week, then we will progress at an equally stable pace in our lessons. I like to use written theory and ear training, but only if the student wants to learn with that technique. Guitarists and bassists can study tab with me as well. I encourage the student to bring in music they are excited about learning as the students often expose me to great music I may not have been familiar with before. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I was raised into a family of music and heard classic/southern rock, blues, bluegrass and pop hits performed live at family get togethers throughout my youth. I played Euphonium in a concert setting through high school as well as the Baritone in marching band. My native instrument is the electric guitar but I have studied heavily with acoustic material as well as bass guitar. I have had the opportunity to teach a few different age groups as well and it inspires me to continue teaching no matter the age group. Read More