Music Lessons

In Riverdale, IL.

It's your time.

y they’re learning songs they like, and more about the instrument and music at the same time. As time goes on we’ll get into playing lead, advanced theory, songwriting and more.

Above is the plan, but I am always open to suggestions from the students as well. As long as they are learning, I am happy. In all reality, we can spend years on just one of the many paths you can go down with music- so I am always continually re-checking on the student’s current and up-to-date goals.

*** Specialties ***
Patience. I feel like it is necessary to be a good teacher. Other than that, I am very confident in my teaching skills. I love so many genres of music that its hard to say where my best talents lie. But no matter what the style, I will say one thing that I have always been strict about is proper technique and rhythm. I feel like timing is something that a lot of musicians take for granted and often have to learn the hard way later on. I try to incorporate it soon after a beginner's first lessons.

theory, jazz/pop theory, music performance, arranging and composition.

*** Lesson Details ***
I believe everyone gets into music for a different reason, and therefore each student deserves their own custom curriculum. It is important for students to work at a pace and in a direction that is comfortable for them. For this reason, we will start with a consultation so I can figure out exactly what you aim to get out of taking lessons. From there we will incorporate some standard curriculum and method books that I enjoy using, as well as my own techniques that involve plenty of ear training and exercises to improve one's facility on the instrument (scales, patterns, technique).
Most importantly, we're going to have a lot of fun! If you are not having fun it's not even worth your time. I am very laid back and promote a stress-free environment!
Remember, I was once a beginner, too. I know what it's like to learn something new, so I want to be there to guide you through it!

*** Studio Equipment ***
extra music room f/w keyboard w/ seating for parents

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide no equipment. Student must provide saxophone, reeds, books, etc.

*** Specialties ***
My passion is jazz. Not just jazz saxophone, but the art form in general. I love to teach people the theory behind improvisation and watch them as they explore and internalize the endless possibilities thereafter.
I am also classically trained and am equally proficient in that area, although I would say I do prefer jazz.
In summary, my specialties would be: jazz saxophone, jazz theory, improvisation, jazz arranging, saxophone performance, composing.

right for a classical chamber pop group called the Nine Worlds Ensemble and for a jazz group with Frank Catalano, a popular Chicago sax-man. I co-managed, played upright bass, and sang for an ambient-folk band, Sedgewick, based in Chicago. I've played upright bass in the Frank Catalano and Jimmy Chamberlin (drummer for Smashing Pumpkins) super group and Bowmanville.

I am currently dreaming up my own jazz-inspired project called the ohm trio. Working on my debut record under my solo name ohm. Be on the look out!

e and Chorus. My music students have excelled and grown each year tremendously and I am very proud of all of their hard work, our performances, and achievements. Most recently, a group of my middle school students and I were flown out to Anaheim, California by The NAMM Foundation to perform at The NAMM Show 2018! My students had the experience of a lifetime performing before large audiences, sharing the stage with professional recording artists, meeting various celebrities, and experiencing the full "red carpet" treatment complete with free Disneyland Tickets! Not only that, thanks to The NAMM Foundation, my youth Drumline received an extremely generous financial donation and support to build the program to even greater levels!

Now taking my Music instruction to greater levels, I am expanding music lessons to all ages via TakeLessons and can help you towards achieving your musical goals. Whether it's Saxophone Instruction, Beginner Percussion Instruction, training for Drum Major auditions, or simply learning to read music - contact me and let's see how I can help!