Music Lessons in Saint Jacob, IL

Instruments: Trombone Bass Guitar

I want to make sure that my students are enjoying the lessons and are able to take something away from as many lessons as possible. Keeping their interest is important, therefore I make sure to ask questions to clarify what we would be working on. I also make sure to get their feedback often to ensure that retention and appeal is not affected negatively from lesson to lesson. When working with new students, it may take a couple sessions to fully grasp where the progression can start in a way that lines up with the efforts of the student. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

  Typically, students have music they are working on for their band class. I help students overcome any difficulties they have with this music and move on to more challenging material. If the student has no material, I typically use the Essential Elements book for beginning and intermediate students, and Rochut, Arbans, and other method books and solos for advanced students. The goal of lessons is to challenge the student with appropriate material, diagnose problems, provide solutions, and improve musical understanding and knowledge. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Keyboard

My teaching experience goes back to college when I would help out non-piano playing music students for their piano class. (Yes, if you go to school for music, you have to learn some piano, no matter what!). I've also taught students as young as 7, and I was a piano and band instructor at Columbia College Chicago's Blues Camp, which is for students ages 6-18. I was also a keyboard instructor at School Of Rock before having to leave due to touring with Nick Moss. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with note naming and sound. 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. My goal in my method is to get my students fluent in playing the piano and knowing the methods of piano. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I began teaching during pedagogy classes at the University of Illinois. I've continued to teach piano whenever possible during other careers. (I also have a degree in journalism and communications, so I've worked as a writer, editor, public relations director and related fields). It's important that students have fun while learning, and I attempt to engage them as much as I can in endeavors they enjoy. I love seeing laughter and joywhen someone masters amusicproblem which with they previously struggled. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Keyboard Classical Guitar

Each lesson starts with technical exercises, follwed by repertoire. Each student does theory during the lesson with twenty questions at the end. During this time, I do all review theory material. Difficult passages are marked with a "P" chart. They have to play the difficult part four times and get a "P" for each perfect playing. Every fifth time they have to repeat from the beginning to integrate the difficult part with the rest of the song. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Piccolo Keyboard

After teaching myself theory at the age of 4, I received my first musical instruction in 6th grade. At that time I learned to play the flute. This is where my musicianship began to blossom and opportunities were sent my way. Thanks to my love and dedication, I was one of a few placed in special bands. Auditioning & being selected for choruses during this time increased as well. As a result of my hard work, I was offered & accepted the positions at section leader and Drum Majorette in my high school's concert and marching bands & after joining choir my junior year I became lead soloist of the choir. Read More