Music Lessons in Grand Crossing, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar

Philosophy on Music- There is imitation and creation, but to truly create one must first learn the established forms before one can break them. Eventually through discipline to these forms, one will see these forms not as absolutes governors, but instead a variety of tools that aid us in our artistic expression and enjoyment. Philosophy as an Educator- To be an effective educator I believe that one must not only create a curriculum and pay attention to the individual needs of their students, but one must also provide an environment that fosters growth. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music Keyboard

One of my favorite parts of my musical journey is having the opportunity to share my experiences with others through education. For the last four years, I have worked with the Academic Center for Tutoring (ACT) at Columbia College Chicago to bring practical and fun lessons in music theory/aural skills, piano, trumpet, composition, and production. The ACT was located in the heart of the Chicago Loop and I would work with students who have never seen sheet music before (completely reliant on their ears) and students with a classical background that struggled to play without sheet music. Read More

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

I started playing guitar when I was 13. My parents couldn't afford lessons so I had to teach myself how to play. It wasn't a train wreck, but it wasn't pretty either! After a few years of trial and error I finally had my first guitar lesson and realized I was doing everything wrong! After that, I trained hard, unlearned many bad habits, and became a more complete guitar player. I also found out how much I loved music and wanted to make it my career! Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

For a lesson, George generally plays along with the student where the student plays a solo part with the teacher adding a second part. He also uses CD recordings with an instrumental part added having the student follow the recording.When teaching a piece, I will often ask the student to sight read notes and break down a composition into sections. Sometimes, I will have the student play just the treble notes, then bass, before adding the parts together. Read More

Instruments: Voice

The best thing about teaching are the "a ha" moments! I love seeing a smile - that tells me a student LOVES what they were just able to do. And then we high-five, of course! I love when students tell me they surprised themselves , saying something along the lines of , "I didn't know I could make that sound!". I start everyone with the same vocal overview when we first meet , to show you what your amazing voice is capable of doing. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

The methods I use are dependent on the ability level of each particular student. For beginning students, they usually have books given to them (i.e. Essential elements) by their band director at school - which is a fantastic way to start. I think it really depends on the needs of each individual player. There are several great trumpet method books such as Arban's complete conservatory method, Clarke's technical studies, Schlossberg's Daily Drills, etc. Read More

Instruments: Violin Music

I like to provide a variety of methods for instruction. This includes three different forms of learning, Visual, Aural, and Kinesthetic. This is especially true for younger ages. Its important for me to engage all of the students senses while teaching since it is essential to play. Use technique and repertoire as a source of learning. I like to start students out with Essential Elements 2000 Vol. 1. This method book is a means of learning technique and introduces smaller glimpses of repertoire. Read More