Music Lessons in Sollitt, IL

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

I started teaching piano while in college. The spectrum of my students was varied from their ages to their experience. I found that I could make a greater impact on the progress of my students not only by incorporating organized lesson plans, but also by creating a fun and nurturing environment. My success in motivating and teaching my students was based on making learning fun. I never forget about the importance of music theory, but I also understand each student is unique. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

Tommy S. currently holds a master's degree in clarinet performance from the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with Mr. Charles Neidich. Tommy also holds his bachelor's degree from Illinois State University, where he studied with Dr. David Gresham. Tommy has been a winner of the Illinois State University Concerto Competition, the King's Peak International Music Competition, and the Lillian Fuchs Chamber Music Competition. Tommy is currently 3rd/Bass Clarinet for the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

I am always conscious of myself to aim to be fun, understanding, and motivating. As long as my student is motivated to learn I could not care less if they were the worst player on the planet; I will endure thick and thin to guide them to success. The motivation to become better and to strive for excellence is what I look for in my students. I love music and while I don't expect all my students to pursue music as a career, I want my students coming away from my lessons purely enjoying music. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I am a dedicated and patient instructor with many years teaching experience in many different settings. For the past ten years I was professor of clarinet and music technology at Mansfield University in rural northern Pennsylvania. I have recently returned to my hometown of Chicago for family reasons and I'm looking forward to teaching private students again. I completed my doctorate in clarinet perfomance at the University of Arizona, working with Jerry Kirkbride (Dorian Wind Quintet), in 2004. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have developed a semi-structured method for beginning students, taking material from different books and then combining them. For advanced students, I trust they know more about what and how they want to learn than I, and can certainly help them work out their kinks! Regardless, I feel it's vital that students are exposed to a variety of different musical styles. Focusing solely on one hampers creativity, pigeon-holes you as a musician, and, at least in my travels, makes you an EXTREMELY boring individual. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

Bass and music should be enjoyable and fun, and I hope I can bring that to every student. I encourage students practice everyday so that lessons can progessive and students have the opportunity to learn new and challenging music. It is my goal to create a postive learning evironment that helps a student grow to their full potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I also like to incorporate improvisation into my teaching method, from very simple improvisational patterns for beginners to jazz improvisation for advanced students. I think teaching beginners that music does not always come off of a page is an important concept and can free them up to be their most creative selves, to feel connected to the music, and to be able to focus on creating a relaxed and natural technique. Read More