Music Lessons in Clearing, IL

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I am a certified Suzuki teacher (and a Suzuki kid myself!). I have taken Suzuki training through Book 3, though do teach books beyond that level. I have been teaching for over 10 years in all different settings-- private lessons, group classes, elementary school side-by-side programs, and love it all. I believe people of all backgrounds, whether children or adults, have the capability of learning an instrument because we all have an innate musical side to us. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I believe that playing the cello should be effortless natural . A student will play their best when they feel at ease with the instrument and discover how naturally and physically rewarding playing the cello can be. The materials I use with students depend completely on the student’s current playing level. With complete beginners I tend to work from the Suzuki Books or Hal Leonard’s Essential Element books and in addition supply a collection of specialized exercises, scales and warm ups focused on developing fluid technique from the start. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

My methods start with building individual plans for each student. Whether this is from scratch or from a method book I try to see what each student is successful in and struggling with to guide my teaching. While I attempt to be fun, understanding, and motivating this doesn't mean I am lackadaisicalwith my lessons. I expect the best my students can put forth while they should expect the same from me. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

The students long-term goals shape the curriculum. Its important to keep them excited about the material, especially if theyre new to music. Ive found the most effective way to do so is to show how good technique and basic theory apply to music theyre already listening to. Eventually, students see common threads between different styles and genres. Ideally, students will walk away with more eclectic musical preferences. Equally important is to trace a style back to its roots. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I have had the pleasure of teaching students for over 10 years. My students have been of all ages and have consisted of all types of experience levels. These students gave me the experience and helped me grow into a patient and well rounded instructor. My goal is for the student to progress and enjoy themselves while truly understanding what they are learning. I began teaching in my junior year of high school. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

My teaching style is based off of my experiences with 10+ teachers I worked with in my history of violin playing (25 years!). I had a lot of fabulous teachers in my life, but the ones I remember and am truly grateful for are the ones who inspired me to be a better musician and ones who taught me how to teach myself. Those are my two goals for my student, find out what would inspire students to want to get better and then teaching them how to practice so that they can get better. 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