Violin Lessons in Maywood, IL

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I am a certified Suzuki teacher (and a Suzuki kid myself!). I have taken Suzuki training through Book 3, though do teach books beyond that level. I have been teaching for over 10 years in all different settings-- private lessons, group classes, elementary school side-by-side programs, and love it all. I believe people of all backgrounds, whether children or adults, have the capability of learning an instrument because we all have an innate musical side to us. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

To me, it is important that I meet each student exactly where they are at. Each student is unique and no two paths will be the same, so my instruction varies from student to student. Typically with the younger students, I do like to incorporate a lot of games, challenges, and rewards to help them find their motivation. For my older students, I encourage them by setting realistic goals and acknowledging their accomplishments, no matter how small. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

I began teaching people how to play instruments when I was in high school, by teaching new students to the band how to play percussion. I then continued teaching once in college by volunteering at local high schools helping new students to the band programs learn brass and percussion. From there I worked with the Rich South high school band director and the Jack Hille middle school band directors. Once I graduated college I taught choir and instrumental music for the catholic school system for two years. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For my beginner students who are children, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and sometimes Lee W. Kikuchi's Musicianship for Strings. Scales and arpeggios follow shortly after. As the student progresses, I follow up with Harvey S. Whistler's Introducing the Positions (this book can also work with adults). Etude books such as Wohlfahrt and Kreutzer come into play when the student is ready. As far as repertiore, I use the first few Suzuki books and Barber's "Soloists for Young Violinists" for my younger students (the latter can also work with adults). Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I teach students in either the Traditional method, or the Suzuki Method. I am also capable of doing a hybrid method catered to the students needs. If you aren't familiar with Suzuki Method it involves a lot of listening and singing in addition to playing the instrument. My students love being able to pick there own pieces, so I usually combine a classical piece with a piece of their choosing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

My approach is definitely supportive and positive, but I don't let that get in the way of challenging the student. I am not afraid to tell the student that they can do better. It's very important to get to know the student's goals and inspirations. That way, I can focus on the skills they need. Also, I like to let the student learn songs by artists they love (if applicable) because it motivates them and sometimes it ends up being the sound they want to go for anyway. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar

It is rewarding to see a student achieve a strong desire and a sense of accomplishment when they begins to play the instrument of their choice. I believe that a person should learn at their own pace. With that in mind I try to set realistic goals and make each lesson understandable. Acknowledging their success helps build their confidence and knowledge which translates into the student wanting to practice more. Read More