Saxophone Lessons in Country Club Hills, IL

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important aspect of teaching music is to keep the student excited and engaged! I want my students to be eager to learn. I keep all lessons fun and casual, but stress the importance of hard work. I always encourage daily practice sessions, even if just for 15 - 20 minutes. Repetition is key! I discuss our goals for the lessons (what do you want to get out of the lesson? why do you want to learn saxophone?) and strive to meet our goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I typically divide my lessons into quarters so that the first part is just scale work. The second part is scale patterns and technique. The third portion is prepared materials, and the final portion is listening. I bring an Ipod with close to 750,000 songs on it for kids to choose pieces featuring their own instruments for inspirational purposes. I find that listening can be just as informative as pressing down keys:) Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

When I am introduced to a new potential student I try to assess the level of interest, and the reason behind the desire to take up an instrument. I also like to understand what the extracurricular activities are that may create a roadblock when it comes to practicing. As a father of 2 boys 8 and 11, I know the number of distractions, homework, and how life can get in the way. I enjoy working with everyone from the casual enthusiast, to the dedicated pupil. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Clarinet Recorder Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

My passion is teaching. It's my profession, as well as my hobby (I am a Volunteer Sunday School Teacher). My main goal in music lessons is to make the experience enjoyable for the student -- I'm not very strict when it comes to progress. In my opinion, a student should genuinely enjoy playing their instrument because progress inevitably follows. I love to do risk-free trials because the student and the teacher need to have a certain rapport for the lessons to be fully effective. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I am an experienced and enthusiastic musician who enjoys sharing the joy of music with students young and old. I have performed professionally with small jazz ensembles, classical saxophone quartets, show bands (Rita Moreno, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, and more), orchestras (Madison and Milwaukee Symphonies), big bands (Russ Morgan, Dick Sargent, Paula Carberry, Al Chase, Karlos Moser), and was a founding member of the Madison Arts Players at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use humor and my own experiences to first establish a caring environment in which the student can be comfortable. Once that connection is established, I like to find out the students interests and make sure a personal goal is set that we can achieve together. There has to be something exciting the student can achieve in order to develop self-motivation. I employ a number of tactics to stimulate self-expression and problem solving skills, as independent work and practice is crucial in any musician's journey. 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