Grayslake Language Lessons

he knowledge of using there instrument properly and efficiently so that they may utilize their talents to their fullest potential. Through lessons with me my students will enjoy and flourish in using their talents and become confident in doing so. Both learning and performing should be fun and exciting and that is what my students should know, that I am here to have fun and to help you embrace your natural talents and use them with ease and comfort.
What sets me apart from other teachers at Take Lessons?
Well, I am here to help you find how you learn best and what you feel most comfortable with. You will learn about yourself, your emotions, what makes you who you are, and your goals. Once we find that, we will use that to bring out your strengths and help you thrive in all areas of your life.
My training includes, but is not limited to;
Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, Sherman Oaks, CA- Fitness and Group Instructor Certification and Personal Training
Act One Studios, Chicago IL- Acting, and On-Camera, Commercial Techniques, Film and TV
Visceral Dance Center, Chicago IL- Modern, Tap, Jazz
Ruth Page Dance Center, Chicago IL- Ballet, Jazz, Pilates
Lou Conte Dance Studio, Chicago IL- Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Pilates, and Yoga
Oakland University, Rochester MI – Integrated Studies of Music, Theatre, and Dance, B.A.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI & Flint MI- Music Education, Dance , Vocal Performance, and Acting
Major studies and supplemental continued education in Health and Wellness, Nutritional implementation and lifestyle coaching.
Also, a professional athlete and fitness model with Ultimate Fitness Events Ontario, Canada.

Though I am your teacher, instructor, coach and I am also a fellow performer. I understand that everyone learns differently and I try to take various approaches to help the student get the most out of each lesson. I encourage my students to be open and honest with me about each aspect or their lesson so that we can, together, tailor a lesson plan that best fits each individual.

I am also CPR/AED certified- this is just one way to make sure your child or you are safe while taking lessons while me.

*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are designed to better the performances and techniques of a singer, dancer, or actor.
Techniques such as breathing, diction, pitch, tone, posture, rhythm, smoothness, and stage presence will be practiced. I do my best to develop lessons that are tailored to each student based on their individual needs. Lessons start simply with gentle vocal exercises based on humming and open vowel sounds. Each student can expect to be challenged through exciting a stimulating exercises. I also teach techniques to improve posture, poise and vocal performance. I enjoy using simple scales to improve pitch and volume while also working on clarifying the students voice. A students performance, whether they aspire to be a performer, teacher, or just enjoy performing should have a positive self portrait of themselves. We will work on building confidence so we as performers can take pride in ourselves and what we represent. My students are expected to practice outside of the lesson. I also encourage them to keep a practice journal of when and how long they have practiced. It helps the students to trouble shoot areas of their performance and take the opportunity to ask questions during the next lesson.
My students and I will strive to
- To develop an understanding of basic music theory.
- To take responsibility for their musical and vocal growth.
- To reach for improvement and not perfection.
- To work on the memorization of a performance.
- To try their hardest with each lesson.
- To come to each lesson with an idea of what they would like to achieve.
- To constantly sing correct pitches and rhythms in all songs/performances.
- To practice correct posture and breathe support.
Most importantly,
- To enjoy their performance and learn to embrace the natural talents they are given.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I work from a loft apartment, consisting of an area next to computer with a home recording studio area for music and keyboard. There is also seating for parents if they desire to attend lessons.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I highly suggest the student have their own keyboard/piano. I do have a keyboard and music along with theory books and lesson plans, but would expect a quiet work environment for the student to pay attention.

*** Specialties ***
In dance I am well educated in every area but my strengths include: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical and Modern.
In vocal performance and technique: Opera, Musical theater, Lyric Soprano and Alto
Music: Classical, Contemporary, Rock, Pop, Christian, Country, R&B, Hip Hop

ousands of dollars for charities over the years, including University of Illinois at Chicago G.I.L.D. and Hadassah. Karen is also available for Mardi Gras events and Corporate Holiday Parties.

Michael Fennely (Carnegie Hall), Wei-En Hsu (Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra), and Candace Evans (Santa Fe Opera). Nicole earned her Associates in Theatre from Brigham Young University ('12) and went on to acquire her BM in Vocal Performance from Illinois Wesleyan University ('14). Nicole obtained additional training from Boston University, Elon University, and the University of Alaska Anchorage.

transformative experience for anyone. Whatever it is you're looking for in learning piano, I'm eager to help and share the gifts my teacher gave me.

cher have come from when I work with students who just want to learn more.

***My Requirements***
Learning comes at a price, though. I hold my students to high expectations when it comes to practicing. Each week, I give students individual assignments that I know will improve their learning and playing abilities, and I expect those assignments to be fulfilled by the next lesson. A failure to do so will result in frustration for both myself and my student.

However, I know that nobody is perfect, and I myself have had my share of weeks where life happens, and I simply don't progress as much as I would like. As a teacher, I understand this perfectly, and I will always strive to listen to my students, and work with them through their difficulties or struggles.

***What To Expect From Lessons***
I bring a lot of energy to lessons! I am very passionate about teaching and helping students grow, and I make sure to bring that to every lesson. I give concise, direct feedback to students, making sure to give them the information they need to understand how they can achieve their goals and grow.

I am very perceptive of students' feelings, and I take care to be sensitive to their needs each week. My worst fear as a teacher is to cause hurt feelings, so I will do everything in my power to avoid that!

I am an expert in the field of music and the flute, so you can be rest assured that the quality of instruction will be the highest.