Music Lessons in Itasca, IL

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder Music Keyboard

I believe it is important to teach to the individual. Each student will require a different path to success and therefore, I will choose the method that best fits with their learning style, personality and interests. In addition, it is important to rememeber that many students are successful with their own guided learning plan instead of following a book. However, there are also students who thrive with the step by step stylized learnin plan only a method can provide. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I typically start beginners with the Teaching Little Fingers to play books. After going through the books at whatever rate the student needs to retain information, I will move on to solo repertoire pieces that align with the students' interests and tastes. I remember my piano teacher when I was a child bringing over several books for me to choose from, and it was the most exciting thing. I do the same with my students, so that the learning stays fun and students get to reap the rewards of their hard work throughout the process. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone

My passion for teaching began my senior year of high school when I assumed a leadership role within my band program. I led trombone and brass sectionals and helped to mentor younger students. As a result of those experiences, I built a private studio of trombone students made up of my classmates and have maintained a private studio ever since. As I grew as a musician I began to teach jazz improvisation to other instruments and added beginning piano students to my roster. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I am a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. In 2007, I graduated from Roosevelt University with a Master of Music degree in Saxophone Performance. I don't perform professionally, but I do play in a few community bands throughout the Chicagoland area. In 2004, I graduated from VanderCook College of Music with my Bachelor of Music Education degree. I taught in a few elementary schools, but I like the idea of teaching students on an individual basis. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

I will continually focus on vowel-forming exercises and funneling the singing air through the nasal cavity and middle of the face. This way, the student will understand how to produce a big sound without straining. Breathing exercises such as 'underwater noises' and 'tornado siren' are fun and keep the mood open and lively. I want to create an atmosphere that lets the student feel strong enough to test their limits. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

For beginning students, we begin with learning how to read music and go over the basic fundamentals of playing the instrument. Then, we will go through the Rubank Elementary Methods books while including scales and practice techniques. We will also take time to listen to other instrumentalists and discover what concept of sound is best for you. For advanced students, we will start with fundamental reinforcement through scales, exercises, and sight-reading. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

Beginner students with me, no matter what age, start by studying out of the Stick Control book which has many sticking combinations for developing strong hands. It's designed for snare drum but I convert those combinations to the drum set to make unique rhythms that exercise all four limbs. I also stress rudiments for everyone, which I apply to the drum set as well to make it fun. The other aspect of drumming I work on is independence of both hands and both feet. Read More