Lake Villa Language Lessons

teach music for over 24 years using the traditional and Suzuki methods. I am a fan of the Essential Elements 2000 for string instruments, and the Alfred's Piano Library for piano. Alfred's piano library can be used for any age as they also have books especially made for adult learners. I also like their music flash cards.
For teaching music theory I mostly used Master Theory.

I personalize every lesson, and always set goals for my students. Most of my violin students are members of the Florida Youth Orchestra as well as Gold Coast Youth Orchestra and my piano students participate in Pompano Beach competition and the annual Piano Guild auditions.
I teach any age and any level, and always stress that learning a new instrument is very similar to learning a new language, it needs a lot of patience, persistence and repetitions. My lessons are customized to my students needs, and are work in progress as they needs may change over time. I always remind my students that music can give them instant gratification when they learn to play favorite songs.
I always encourage my students to tell me about their music preferences, so I can incorporate them in their music lessons.

*** Lesson Details ***
All my tutoring sessions include reviews of previously learned material and if possible the use of technology. I use students books but often bring extra study materials if necessary.
All my lessons include: technique: I like to use the Finger Power for piano students and Essential Elements for my string students, and scales for both.
music theory: I use Master Theory or other books such as Hal Leonard's Piano Note spellers & Piano Music Theory books for younger ages, music flash cards to support learning notes and musical terminology, and of course the fun part performance.

Besides Essential Elements 2000 for strings I also use String Tunes and Fiddle Runners to add more fun to the lessons. For piano students I use Holiday Treats book, which comes in 2 different levels: Beginner & Intermediate, so my students have a new songs for a specific holiday.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I always bring violin with me to be able to show what I teach.

*** Travel Equipment ***
The students needs to have their books and assigned material ready for tutoring. Instrumental students needs to have their music books & instrument available as well as a pencil. I always stress with my students to be organized and prepared for their lesson, this way they will be able to focus better during the lesson. I bring my violin with me. I also ask that the room where the lesson takes place to be free of any distractions, such other siblings or any other noise. The quiet environment helps in faster learning.

*** Specialties ***
I tutor most K-12 subjects and prepare students to take ACT, SAT, GRE tests.
Music genres: Classical, traditional, Suzuki, Popular, Celtic, fiddle, Blues

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.

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.

s experience tutoring both. She is also an advanced speaker of Italian.