Samantha W  
Instruments: Clarinet
Styles: Classical, Marching Band

My teaching journey began at Wunderlich Intermediate School in Klein, Texas, where I began teaching beginner clarinet players. I loved getting new students excited about music, and helping them have fun while they learn! I've followed this passion all the way to Chicago, where I still teach beginning students at Central Middle School in Tinley Park. Since then, I've also taught more advanced students at both the middle and high school levels. I currently teach students at Westmont Junior High, Westmont High School, Downers Grove South High School, and at all Lincoln-Way High Schools. I love helping my students grow their confidence and motivation, showing them what a little bit of effort and some passion can accomplish! Encouraging practice habits that promote mental and physical health is at the core of teaching style. I want my students to have fun while they learn, and surprise themselves at how far they can come! I always encourage my students to enter competitions, perform their own recitals, or compose their own music. A cornerstone of my teaching involves catering to each student by helping them achieve their own individual goals. Whether you simply want to improve a hobby or want to make music your career, I can show you how to improve and have fun!

For beginning students, I focus on creating great tone quality and establishing excellent practice habits. I typically recommend the Rubank Elementary Method for beginners, but many students have to purchase other texts such as Accent on Achievement or the Hal Leonard Essential Elements for their beginning band class. In any case, these will also work for beginning lessons! I also start students on scales right away, with beginning students working on tetrachords (4 note patterns) that we develop into scales by combining two tetrachords into a single scale. My beginning students often learn their first scale within the first 5 lessons! Once a student completes the Elementary Method, I will have them work on the Rubank Intermediate Method, which covers dynamic expression as well as major and minor scales. I will also assign solo repertoire at all levels, so students are always excited to play and motivated to practice. Furthermore, I often play duets with my students to teach them ensemble skills, rhythm, and how to have fun!