About
I have been teaching for more than 25 years and in various different capacities. I feel that it is important for students to feel comfortable while at lesson. They learn better and enjoy it more. I have a casual and inviting environment. I am employed locally and in the Chicago suburbs providing organ and piano music for church services and directing the handbells and vocal choirs. I keep current with piano and vocal trends. I work diligently with students for auditions and contests and our recitals. I have former voice students who were chosen as finalists for The Voice and American Idol, and invited to Hollywood week. I highly encourage my students to have a passion for music and more importantly, their creativity. We have to work on fundamentals, but we always work on selections that the students choose. They make the pieces their own-- I encourage and coach them on not only learning the music but arranging the music. It is at their pace and to the level that they want to achieve. I am not a curriculum based teacher and customize the lessons based on each individual students learning styles.
I am passionate about music. I love my students and love seeing their excitment about their progress! My adult students get as excited as the children, and that is so awesome! I teach weekday afternoons and evenings during the school year and add mornings during the summer.
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Jennifer S.
Ben H.
Lisa S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Our first session is a meet and greet prior to the lesson. If possible, we have a longer time together so that we can find out a little about each other. I focus on personality and learning styles. We learn basics about the craft and work on a simple song so that some accomplishment has been made.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am college educated in both piano and voice. Additionally, I have an MSN and work with children daily in the school setting.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My lessons in the Northwestern suburban area are in students homes. I charge $30 for 1/2 hour lessons which includes a $4 travel fee as I will teach in your home.
In my home studio in Roscoe, I charge $22 for a half hour lesson. Voice lessons are normally 45 mintues.
How did you get started teaching?
I started in college, after accompyaning groups in high school, my high school choir teacher recommended several students to me. I have been teaching ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with all types of students, starting piano when students are either in kindergarten or can read small words and do basic counting. I start vocal students at age 11. Many of my voice students are active in the theater groups in the schools and community. I have adult students who study piano with me. I like people. Age isn't important.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Group Christmas caroling and piano performances at nursing homes, recitals and playing for church.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The student should be comfortable with the teacher's personality and should work with a teacher who can demonstrated the product. The teacher should be open to customizing lesson to the student's preferences.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The student should be ready to discuss how much time they would be willing to spend practicing outside of lesson time. Also, bring suggestions for pieces to learn to the teacher, so that practice is more enjoyable.