Music Lessons in Cresthill, IL

Instruments: Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle Music

I swear by the Suzuki method. Ive tried various methods, and nothing has worked better than this. Suzuki not only incorporates, but makes it a necessity to be able to sight read, learn by ear (listening followed by playing), and understand the theory behind the piece. I believe that being well educated in different styles of playing makes one a greater musician. My students start off with music theory and the basics of violin, beginning with classical repertoire that can be solo pieces or group pieces from Suzuki book 1. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My teaching experience dates back to my high school years, 8 years ago, when I was a section leader for my marching band and I got to teach marching routines and lead sectionals for my section. Later, at my undergraduate degree, I got hired at three different middle and high schools to teach private lessons and give master classes. Since leaving Texas and moving to Chicago, I haven’t been able to teach due to my busy school schedule, but I am very excited to start up my studio again with Musika! Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Faber Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. 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. Selecting the best piano teaching method can be a daunting task. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

Later, I went to Concord University in Athens, West Virginia from 1971-1974 where I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and organ performance. Starting in 1979-1985, a Master of Applied Music and Organ Performance at Norfolk State University in Virginia where my teachers were Dr. Allen Shaffer and Dr. Carl Haywood. More recently, I attended Concordia University in Chicago completing a Master of Church Music and Organ in 2011. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My teaching style is very laid back and organized. I look at where the student is, go back to the basics with them if needed, and go on from there. I encourage all my students to practice whenever they can but to also live life. I tell them that if they're just sitting around watching TV (or YouTube these days) to just play a few scales or a excerpt from a piece they are working on during commercial break. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

As a teacher, I am most interested in helping students develop solid fundamental technique while discovering the joy of playing and mastering an instrument. I am very flexible in the use of method books, prefering to discover the individual needs of my students and tailoring instruction and materials to each individual. My teaching stresses the fundamental operation of the instrument (use of air, embouchure, posture, and hand placement) in order to unlock the student's full potential. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching and tutoring private students of all ages for over fifteen years. I take great pride in seeing my students succeed and have great performances; whether it be in front of thousands of fans at a venue, or for their family and friends in the living room. I am a life-long student of music and it has enhanced my life in a way that only the arts can, and I love sharing and providing this experience with all of my students. Read More