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Ira O.

Ira O.

“Playing music is fun!”

  • Located in

    Chicago, IL, 60618

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 4
  • Availability
  • How It Works
  • Map
  • General Info
    • TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
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    • Background Check Complete

      Criminal Background Check

      In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
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    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: Yes
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Bass Guitar, Guitar, Cello, Music Performance, Music Theory
    Education
    Kenyon College - Music - 2003-2007 (Bachelor's degree received)
    Specialties
    For guitar, I specialize in teaching beginners of all interests, and intermediate students who want to learn about playing leads and the theory behind their music. You are welcome to bring an electric guitar to lessons but my style is best with acoustic players.

    For cello, I specialize in teaching beginning through advanced students of all interests. I am very comfortable teaching classical material, but I am also experienced at teaching the less common skills that you'll need to ...
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    Lesson Details
    Your goals set the curriculum. After we figure out your goals together, my job is to break down the technique and theory that you'll need into simple, manageable steps. The harder you're able to work at these steps, the faster we'll go. Students play more when they have fun, and students who play more accomplish their goals faster. We'll talk about this every single lesson, to make sure that I give you only the most meaningful, enjoyable projects and goals.
    About
    I started playing music when my dad got me a guitar for Christmas when I was four years old. For years, I only knew how to play about five notes, but I had the most fun ever.

    Today I know a lot more than those five notes -- and I'll make sure that you learn a lot more than five notes in a hurry -- but I still have just as much fun as I did then. I'm a teacher because I want to show you, and everybody else who is curious about music, that fun starts on your first day with the instrument and ...
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    Equipment
    In-Studio: My music room is well-equipped for classical music (music stand, metronome, tuner, stereo, staff paper) as well as contemporary music (professional amplifier, microphones, recording gear, electronic effects). The room is not big -- it's fine for two people but crowded with three. Parents who want to sit in on lessons are encouraged to schedule lessons in their own home.

    In-Home: I'll always bring my instrument, metronome, tuner, pen ...
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  • Ira's Photos

    • Ira O.

    Ira's Audio Clips

  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 4 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Quick advancement In just a short time Ira made me feel more comfortable with the instrument and was very adept at working at my novice skill level. July 16, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Ira is smart, gifted, considerate and patient. A wonderful musician and teacher. Since working with Ira, I feel that my technique has improved and I'm developing a deeper understanding of how to play. The time is well spent and I would highly recommend him to a new or advanced player. May 8, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Outstanding teacher Ira is an absolutely outstanding teacher. He has a warm, patient style, combined with a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience. He is a true gem. December 7, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Wonderful teacher for my son Ira has been very patient in teaching my 9.5 year son. He seems genuinely interested in seeing progress in his student and I am grateful for his thoughfulness. His teaching techniques are age appropriate and useful. Only regret is that we will be leaving Chicago tand can't continue the lessons! July 26, 2011

  • Getting Started

    Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.
    Lesson Length
    There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.
    Lesson Location
    Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

    Book Your Lessons Online

    Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.
    Scheduling Lessons
    After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.
    Booking Options
    Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.
    Payment and Billing
    We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.
    Signing Your Customer Agreement
    Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

    Start Your Lessons

    Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...
    Prepare for Your First Lesson
    Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.
    What To Expect
    Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.
    Reach the Goals You Set
    Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

    Programs & Pricing

    The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.
    100% Money Back Guarantee
    If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.
    Can I pay when I get to the lesson?
    In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.
    How does billing work?
    Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.
    What forms of payment do you accept?
    At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.
    Do you offer a free trial lesson?
    We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.
    Do you offer any discounts?
    At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.

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