Piano Lessons in Wilmington, IL

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 Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Keyboard

Basically I start with questions on why the individual wants to learn how to play that particular instrument. Then I follow with how much do they know about the instrument of their choice. So following a brief historical lesson we get into how to start playing that instrument. Also why I love to play that instrument and why I'm playing it with passion. I start teaching with basic scales or vocal warm-ups. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar

My experience as an educator began when I was a junior in High School, where I fast gained a reputation as an exceptional guitarist/singer. During this time, a few of my friends and classmates asked me if I would teach them. Since then, I have been teaching non-stop out of my residence and other creditable music stores. From 2008-2010, I taught out of Avenue N. Guitars, while keeping my own private students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; I'm teaching. I’m an avid columnist for Modern Drummer Magazine and I sing/play guitar for one of Chicago's best Nirvana tributes called Smells Like Nirvana. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I started teaching towards the end of high school and continued in college and beyond! I found it beneficial to be teaching students while still being a student myself. Having great teachers in my life has shaped my own approach to teaching. I discovered that when I was able to study what I was truly excited about, my capacity to learn and improve my craft increased exponentially! To that end, I encourage students to bring in original material as well as "covers" that they are interested in to build a repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Bass Guitar Organ

I began teaching in my late teenage years through a summer program provide through my church. The program is a week long program for kids ages 4-18 and during the program I gave lessons to over 15 students. Shortly after, I began to advertise my ability to give private instruction. Through self advertisement I gained a few adult students and began giving private instruction to earn money. Since then I’ve gained students through recommendations and word of mouth. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

Mary began taking music lessons at age 5. She still retains the record at her high school for most awards in music. After high school, she earned a Music/Business Administration degree from Millikin University, a certification in audio engineering from the Conservatory of Recording Arts Sciences, and an MBA in e-Business from the University of Phoenix. Mary is a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP), as well as the National Academy of Recording Arts Sciences (NARAS). Read More