About
I have over two 15 years of teaching experience as both a private lesson teacher and a classroom teacher. I've had the honor of working with several hundred students over the years, with a proven success record working with students of all ages - as young as 3 years of age, from beginning students to advanced high school and undergraduate students. In addition to having many years of teaching experience, I have three decades of playing experience. I hold advanced degrees in music education and performance from US universities, as well as an artist diploma from the Royal Danish Conservatory of Music.
I am trained in traditional teaching methods as well as the Suzuki teaching method. I teach piano, violin, viola, cello & guitar - classical and other genres such as rock, pop and jazz.
I love working with students as they either first learn their instrument or become an advanced player. I have the ability to adapt to a students individual style of learning, and have had great success in cultivating wonderful pupils and players alike!
Highlights
Reviews
Valerie
Trish J.
The W.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin with a trial lesson, where I meet the student (& parent if applicable) and where I get to know where the student is at, form a lesson curriculum,answer any questions the student has, and get to know the student in general! I provide students with music and worksheets, and/or provide them with a list of materials/books to get, and form a plan for the upcoming 2-3 months of our lessons. I love to integrate my lessons with various components of technique building, music theory, general cognitive development, and a variety of other methods I use - that make lessons both successful and fun!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have degrees in music performance and education from Columbia College & NEIU. Additionally, I hold an artist diploma (performance) from the Royal Danish Conservatory of Music. I have performed with a variety of musicians and groups including Illinois Philharmonic Orchesta, Southweest Symphony, Key west Symphony, Smoky Robinson, and Toby Keith - among many dozens of others! I currently perform with the reggae band Dropped Once, and play fiddle with the country band Play Something Country. I sub for orchestras including Elgin, Chicago and various other cities.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard tuition is $120 a month for weekly half-hour lessons, $175 for weekly 45-minute lessons per month, and $220 a month for one-hour weekly lessons. I provide financial aid for students that are in financial need. In-home lessons are 20% more. I provide makeup lessons for any missed lesson, and will give students longer lessons in the weeks following any lesson they miss.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all types of students, as young as 3 years old, from beginning students to very advanced students that are undergraduate performing students in their early 20's. I have worked with beginning adult students as well. Many of my students are elementary, middle school and high school aged. I feel comfortable with students of all ages and all levels, and have a variety of methods and curriculum that I use to accommodate to each students own individual learning needs.