Saxophone Lessons in Northbrook, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I like to start beginning students with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. When students move on to other materials, I draw upon their interests and the genre in which they are playing to find materials. I encourage classical students to listen to the repertoire so they can bring in pieces that they want to work on. I use a variety of method books with my jazz students, depending on the specific goals of the lesson, but I also place emphasis on ear training and transcription. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

Every student is unique in their ability level, dedication to the instrument/craft, et. al; therefore, I cannot expect that every student will be the next Larry Combs. I do, however, expect that every student take their responsibility for practicing each week, coming prepared to lessons, and being a good student. In lessons, I am kind and personable as anyone should be, but I like to make clear my expectations right from the beginning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

I strive to tailor instruction to meet the needs of the individual student. For students who are at a beginning level, I often start with a reliable methods book (i.e. Piano Adventures) to lay a foundation. From there, I like to explore a range of supplementary materials that can help students work toward their personal goals and interests, such as modern/ other genres of music, composition material, technique-specific exercises, etc. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important part of my job as an instructor is listening - to how the student plays, why they play, and what they hope to accomplish. Each student is different - do you want to play just for fun? Advance in your school band? Audition for college entrance? Prepare for a solo recital? Whatever your goals are, I will provide you with the guidance to fulfill them - the practicing is up to you! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Clarinet Recorder Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I never imagined God had plans for me to be a music teacher. I had taken piano lessons for about 15 years (later adding recorder, guitar, violin, clarinet, saxophone, and cello) and was working as a front desk receptionist in a music school when a teacher notified us of an unexpected long-term absence. My boss--who had known me for almost 20 years, and who taught me piano-- approached me and said she would like ME to teach the affected students. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I have been performing/teaching private lessons for 32 years but I always like the opportunity to work with motivated students from all levels. I have performed throughout the USA and was lucky enough to play in Carnegie Hall in 1990. In addition, I have performed with the orchestras of Elgin, Lake Forest, Milwaukee, South Bend, Springfield, Ft. Wayne, Savannah as well as the pit orchestra for numerous Broadway in Chicago musicals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard

The moment when a students finally understands a difficult concept, succeeds at a performance, masters a new technique, or has an amazing breakthrough is why I teach. I love to see the joy in the students faces and see how proud they are when they accomplish the tasks at hand. I like to reward and acknowledge successes because a student who feels successful has a higher chance of being successful. Read More