Brookfield Music Lessons

The Ramsey Lewis Quartet.

*** Lesson Details ***

Studying at the college level taught me a lot about what not to do as a teacher. The material is already difficult enough, so why would I be difficult with you?

I strive to be more of a mentor and friend rather than taskmaster. However, I do require structure and commitment to getting better. My curriculum will revolve around you and your needs with added material that I feel will help you succeed.

A typical lesson plan includes:

 physical technique

 chord and scale knowledge,

 soloing concepts

 and tying all of these ideas together by learning a song in a genre you love!

All of these concepts culminate in the discovery of your own personal voice!

*** Studio Equipment ***
My teaching studio is just steps away from the Belmont Blue Line stop! Our lessons will be held in a private practice space in my home. The large room has multiple amps and guitars, so there is no need to bring an instrument for lessons if you don't want to! (But, you do need an instrument to practice with outside of our lessons!)

o short films and started working on my own web series, about my life as a singer/voice teacher. I also have an art song project consisting of original material with composer Jaroslaw Golembiowski. As a singer and actress I have performed with many major theaters in the Chicago area, including Court Theater, Victory Gardens, National Jewish Theater, Bailiwick Theater, and Prop Theater.

*** Lesson Details ***
As a classically trained singer I will instruct you in all aspects of singing technique, from breath control and support to improving your tone, range, flexibility and resonance. I have recently completed training in Somatic Voicework, The LoVetri Method, which has enriched my understanding of the mechanics and health of the voice, as well as applications of technique to CCM or contemporary musical styles of singing.
My familiarity with a variety of musical styles from pop/rock, R&B, and country, to musical theater, lounge and jazz makes me an ideal teacher for those interested in contemporary styles.

I have spent many years developing my own style of singing and instruction. I draw on my experiences and training not only in music, but theater and movement, (Linklater, Alexander Technique, Grotowski) to create a well rounded approach to singing and performing. As an instructor, I am most interested in helping students find their true voice and artistic style. I teach students to find expression through and with a foundation of technique, rather then in spite of it. I also am very interested in helping students deal with the mental/emotional aspects of performance, an all important area so frequently ignored by music teachers. My style is nurturing, yet disciplined, and sprinkled liberally with good-natured humor."

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio space is fully equipped with a piano, P.A. system with microphones, CD, MP3 player for tracks, and ability to record lessons if the student desires.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Please have a piano (in tune!) or keyboard for use in your in home lessons.

*** Specialties ***
I am classically trained, but I am very adept at teaching music in a wide variety of styles, including most contemporary styles of music including pop/rock, roots, swing, jazz and blues, country, r&b, and of course musical theater and cabaret. My band performs an eclectic mix of originals and covers in the roots rock genre, and I write music as well. I have many years of experience in the theater as an actress, and I coach acting technique and performance. I coach singer/songwriters, and all types of singers, of all ages. I have a workshop that specializes in helping people learn to perform better in front of an audience, and I host the Singer's Salon in Chicago, which is a supportive opportunity to perform regularly! I also coach bands, to improve their vocals, harmonies, etc.

nd why music is the way it is with Music Theory lessons.

I am qualified to teach all levels of piano, opera, and voice.I take a real hands on, active approach to teaching, going beyond just the lesson books.

I am also able to offer tutoring services. I have been tutoring since high school. In high school as part of the National Honors Society, we were asked to tutor once a week and it continued into college when I decided to double major in Psychology taking an interest in adolescence psychology. My strong suits and reading and math but I am more than happy to help in any subject.

I do have dogs in the house so please be advised if you have allergies.

*** Lesson Details ***
Our sessions will be laid back and easy going. I expect the students to do their work and practice and as long as they are showing progress, we can continue with a fun and relaxed atmosphere. I am patient with my students, and do my best to develop teaching methods unique to each student to give the best experience and set them up for the highest level of success. I don't push students to perfection but rather assist them in reaching their personal best. As long as they are having fun and learning, I know I am doing my job. Music is to be enjoyed and that is my goal with each student.

For voice and piano, students will learn a wide variety of music. I also believe strongly in the power of sight reading. Students will also learn music theory in their lessons. Piano students will follow a lesson book curriculum along with learning scales and sight reading. Voice students will sing from all major languages (English, French, Italian, and German) and practice sight reading skills.

Students should bring a notebook to lessons where notes will be taken on what we accomplished in our lessons and what needs to be worked on for the next lesson. This will usually include a theory sheet, technique work, and songs.

Twice a year I hold a recital where students get to show off to other students and family what they have accomplished in their lessons. With piano students, you will prepare and memorize usually one song. For voice students, you will prepare and memorize two songs, at least one will be in a foreign language.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lower level for studio, piano, seating for parents, on site computer for easy reference and music samples.

*** Specialties ***
I have an Opera performance degree. I am a classically trained singer and pianist.

along to
• looping, editing, and adding effects to recorded audio

These aspects of a lesson not only better prepare students for the likely future of music but it also makes lessons more exciting, creative, and fun!

st Marine Division Band, Camp Pendleton, CA, specializing in saxophone and clarinet. After completing my military enlistment, I returned to Chicago and obtained a degree in Music Performance from Chicago State University while continuing to perform my military service as the principal saxophonist and squad leader for the 85th Division U.S. Army Reserve Band, Arlington Heights, IL. Throughout my military service, I specialized in jazz big band and combo, marching band and concert band performances. I have received multiple letters of appreciation and accommodation for my musical efforts. I began teaching music in 1997 and have never stopped.

As a professional musician, I have performed for former Presidents of the United States and several heads of state from around the world. Additionally, I have recorded professionally on military service concerts, a film soundtrack, and collaborated on studio recordings for local artists. I have also submitted musical works for consideration in the John Lennon Song Writer's Competition.

As an educator, I have taught General Music, band and private vocal and instrumental lessons throughout the state of Illinois for the past twenty years. I have previously served as the Music Coordinator for the Beverly Arts Center as well as a resident teacher instructing individuals from youth to adult.

Everyone has the capability to demonstrate their love of Music!

all these genres for their pleasure.

As I am a younger teacher, I relate quite well with my students and have been informed of my patient nature. I am mindful of every student's individual ability and understand that the learning curve varies from person to person. Since I have worked with children for so long, I can easily convey theoretical concepts in different ways, using basic metaphors for a student's understanding.

If you take lessons with me, I guarantee that you will feel more confident in yourself and your musical abilities. And you will be able to see progression from week to week in your voice, as long as you practice and make a real effort! I am here to help.