Piano Lessons in Great Lakes, IL

Instruments: Piano

I am a pianist, composer, and educator who strives to bring out the best in all my students. I have composed for film, internet, and theatrical productions and performed across the country in classical and jazz contexts. I hold a masters degree in jazz studies from the Jacobs School of Music, where I studied with Luke Gillespie, Steve Houhgton, and David Baker. In the summer of 2013 I performed with the Disneyland All-American College Band. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

I have over 10 years of teaching experience with the last 7 years being full time. I started playing piano when I was 5 so I have over 22 years of playing experience. The number one thing I stress about learning to play the piano (except practice of course!) is that you need to be having fun at all times. Music is supposed to be fun so it’s my job to make sure my students are enjoying each lesson and each time they sit down at their piano. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

I use various methods to help students become independent artists and I take pleasure in discovering the most effective method to approach each student. First, I take an intellectual approach when students learn a new piece. I expect students to understand historical background of composer and piece before they actually read music notes. This approach allows students to develop appropriate stylistic interpretations and to articulate their own thoughts. During lesson time, I always ask students how they want to lead performance in music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

I encourage regular lesson attendance and practice at home. Consistency is key when learning and developing a new skill set especially when concerning younger students. I feel that the balance of establishing a strong technical foundation and fostering a love for music is fundamental in fostering passion and enthusiasm for new students. I try and find out what the student is interested in and tailor each lesson to their specific needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano

The more a student feels like he/she has accomplished, the more patience and dedication the student acquires. After a student has established that piano is fun/rewarding, I like to slowly incorporate the study of music theory. With music theory a student can begin to codify and understand where these sounds come from. This greater understanding and insight empowers the student to play more musically, or creatively--whether in performing notes written, or improvisationally/compositionally. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

Organ concerts at the Washington National Cathedral, Creative Arts Center, West Virginia University, Alexander Arts Center, Concord University, churches throughout West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Illinois. Private teaching in piano with Ascendo Piano, Fort Wayne, Indiana from 2003-2006 and Fun with Piano, Western Springs, IL starting in 2011 and Musika Piano also beginning in 2011. For the last five years, I was an instructor in piano at Naperville Music teaching classical, jazz, popular, ragtime, christian, and contemporary. 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