About
Our service sticks our for a variety of reasons:
1) certified by the American Guild of Music, 2) opportunities to participate in bands, including orchestral, 3) opportunities to sample various other instruments as enhancements, 4) never any druggy music, 5) religious, as well as secular music presented, 6) include vocals and vocal coaching, 6) expeienced over 50 years in teaching, performing, orchestral guitar, performance, award winning students and instructors, 7) committee members of the Illinois Music association, 8) founders of Midwest Acoustic Club, Guitars for God, lead instuctor and board member of Guitar Fun Opry Club, 9) full service, which includes repairs, merchandise, competition preparation and coaching, 10) biggest selection o guitar music in Illinois.
Our aim is not to make you someone that you're not, but to bring out the best in each individual. We strongly desire that one's money and time is not wasted. Because of this there are certain expectations: not perfect, but excellent steady attendance and steady practice to achieve excellence. We are excited seeing our student's progress and sharing in their joy.
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Jocelyn L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Assess their learning ability, committment level, standards and discerning their goals. Then implement the best plan tailored for their needs, not as much about wants in the beginning stages.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Certified by the American Guild of Music at an early age in Guitar and Harmony, began teaching and performing professionally at 12 years of age. Nearly 30 awards in various musical venues, likewise have had over 75% of our students earning championship status. Member of De Paul University's 18 piece guitar orchestra, Morton college jazz band and Triton college jazz band, and various other ensembles, groups.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Rates vary depending on location, lesson times, in home, other locations or student's home, family discounts.
How did you get started teaching?
As soon as I started taking lessons at 12, neighborhood kids would be hanging around my home asking me to teach them, which I did. At 16 years of age my guitar teacher asked if I'd like to get paid to teach. I was delighted to do so, and started in a neighborhood music school.
What types of students have you worked with?
In 53 years all - children as youg as 4 through adult.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Just got hired to be guitarist/banjo player in the Gershwin play -"Crazy for You."
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure the instructor is qualified and educated, can read music, has profressional performance ability, beware of druggy music, NEVER study with a so called "self taught" or do any online studies. In the long run it does more harm than good. These are mostly just mediocre guitarists looking to make a fast buck. They are not as dedicated, detailed, determined in getting the best out of you. This way of learning online and self taught is not for serious students. You need a real teacher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
First, how serious are they? Although a fun hobby for accomplished musician's, the truth is that for beginner's it is more work than fun. Steady attendance and practice is essential. Understand that in the beginning stages it is more about needs than wants. Don't expect to be playing all your favorite songs in the first year or two. Do not seek counsel from any untrained wannabe guitarists.