Munster, IN Songwriting Lessons

mid May. I've studied under some great players such as Frank Dawson, Harry Hmura, Chris Forte and currently studying under Peter Lerner.

*** Lesson Details ***
I understand what it's like to be in a tense environment where all the material is condensed and thrown at you in a set amount of time. I'm not an advocate of such curriculums. I promote an atmosphere where a student isn't afraid to ask questions and feels the need to express his or her thoughts on whatever we may be learning.

I've come to the conclusion that everyone learns differently and different avenues need to be taken in order for a student to learn. I feel as though every student needs a customized lesson plan that will help them excel. We're all attracted to music in one way or another so I feel the need to tend to what attracted you to playing and writing music in the first place. For example if you like classic rock we will explore certain techniques, ideas, songs and song structures that pertain to that genre. I like to partner you're interests with basic fundamentals of music such as note reading, music theory, and listening exercises. The goal is to keep progressing and learning new things.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Upstairs studio: guitar rig set-up, studio speakers, pro tools set up, recording gear, practice amps, music stands, chairs, additional seating for parents.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can provide an amplifier, cable, tuner, sheet music and even a guitar need be. I expect my students to provide themselves with a guitar so after the lesson and during the week they can practice the material I have provided them with.

*** Specialties ***
I like to start out young students with reading music along with teaching them and exploring the music they are interested in.

nature sound has been featured in numerous media outlets such as WGNews, Time Out Magazine, Jet/ Essence, NBC Chicago, Suntimes, and Rolling Out Magazine.

"As a rule, I teach to help a person find "their voice"- it's when timbre meets technique, skill marries sound and a person is free to execute their gift well...consistently!!!"
SEE WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING

“Amanda …I think your amazing… the total package.”
Susanna Negovan, Michigan Avenue Magazine

“I think you blew everybody away. You nailed every one of those notes and not an easy song to do. You look great, sound great. Congratulations!”
David Viggiano, Entertainment Reporter

“ [Vocally]…you set the bar!”
Vince Lawrence, Slang Music Group

“{Ms. Amanda} is magnetic and inspiring. She is definitely one to watch ... She is It and has It."
Deborah Olivia Brown, NBC5 Chicago

*** Lesson Details ***
Our time together always start with an orientation. We talk, learn expectations and most importantly I hear where you're at and then lay out a plan to get you where you say you want to go. Our space and time together is safe, intentional and productive. We will have a BLAST mainly because I'm hilarious but primarily because I guarantee visible, measurable results and there is nothing more fun then seeing yourself do well in an area you love. Currently, I am mainly accepting students interested in the flex plan.

I truly look forward to meeting you.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I provide a depth of knowledge, piano, some online material and book references. Students provide a good attitude, sometimes the internet, notepad, and digital recorder.

*** Specialties ***
Jazz, CCM, Gospel, Classical, Broadway/Cabaret, Pop, Ballad.

tently see that passion transferred to my students. It is incredibly rewarding to see someone progress right before my eyes, and know that I influenced the progression.
I teach classical saxophone, jazz saxophone, music 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 I guess my specialties would be: jazz saxophone, jazz theory, improvisation, jazz arranging, saxophone performance, composing.

ongly believe that music has the power to change lives – to enhance the social, cultural and spiritual lives of people, and serve as a profound medium of personal expression. Professional perform experience: The Chicago, Natalie Cole, Smokey Robinson, Three tours with Moody Blues, YoYo Ma etc....
The most important thing I look for in a student is communication skills, as well as talent. I like to nurture students and help identify their individual strengths, which is a key factor in shaping a musical persona that will make its mark both on and offstage. I do not advocate a uniform technique for all students. Physical differences and learning styles are always taken into consideration. Potential is as important to me as early achievements and experience. My goal is to help students become self-sufficient, discriminating artists. I discuss practice techniques often and develop individualized scale routines. I encourage initiative and expressive musicality as well as precision. Above all, music needs to bring obvious joy to the student, regardless of the difficulties.”

*** Lesson Details ***
I use Suzuki and traditional method for my students... for Suzuki beginner they will play a song in four days....

*** Studio Equipment ***
In-Studio- Lessons in separate music lesson room, piano and violin are available. Students and parents will enjoy comfortable and clean studio environment with recent remodeled new hard wood floor and studio patio window over looking at beautiful garden. Free WiFi available for parents while waiting during the lesson appointment.
University of St Francis Joliet- can teach in rehearsal rooms at the university.
Online class at world class teaching studio

*** Travel Equipment ***
violin, viola, cello, piano and guitar

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Suzuki teaching method for beginners, traditional conservatory method for intermediate and Royal conservatory recital program for advanced level students..I also teach orchestration program to help students prepare their auditions for major symphonies through out the country including Chicago symphony orchestra etc...

love, and continues to be an endless fascination for me.

*** Lesson Details ***
I believe the pursuit of musical knowledge and skill should be a fun adventure and therefore, in each and every lesson with me I hope that there is laughter. I like to start off finding out what you are interested in learning, then I will create a curriculum based on those interests. I like to get students going right away playing songs so they don't get bored. By the end of three months you should have a nice little repertoire of 6 or so songs in different keys and a beginning knowledge of your instrument and by six months we will have moved into scales, solos and a bit of theory based on your progression.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room, street parking. I have plenty of guitars, amps, pedals and tuners here. I also have audio recording software so we can record your lesson.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I have guitar and tuner, student should also have a guitar.

*** Specialties ***
I would say I am best a teaching rock and blues guitar. I have also studied theory and flamenco guitar and would be able to teach beginners.

r recording projects that reflect my various musical personalities. I love everything about music, and there's nothing I enjoy more than sharing music with others, whether that be playing in a group, going to a concert with a friend, or talking about music with one of my students. One of my greatest joys is seeing others get involved in the world of music by learning to play an instrument, so I take great pride and responsibility in teaching my students and I hope to make that experience as positive and rewarding as it can be for everyone I work with.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am happy to work with students of any age regardless of prior experience or ability. Music is the universal language. Everyone is welcome.

Check out my new song samples for a taste of what I do. All instruments, vocals and production done by me at my home studio.

My approach:
I take a multi-disciplinary, multi-instrumental approach to teaching music. I feel that today's students are very interested in learning more than just one instrument, style or discipline. One of my greatest assets as a teacher is that I can play and teach guitar, bass, drums, harmonica, keyboards, songwriting, and audio production/engineering, or any combination thereof, to a student that is interested in becoming more than just a guitar player.

That being said, my musical experience centers primarily on the guitar, and that's where I prefer to start teaching my students. And if you only want to learn guitar, we'll just stick with guitar. However, if you want to learn other instruments too (guitar and drums; guitar, bass, and harmonica; guitar, keys and drums; etc.) we will work together to create a program that allows you to achieve all of your musical goals in time.

No matter what, the bottom line is this: you determine the direction of your musical education. The first time we meet, we will talk about your musical interests and goals, and from that conversation I will design a curriculum that fits your personality, needs and desires. I work with each of my students to determine and constantly refine his or her path, and as we follow your path I will work to give you all the tools needed to pursue your goals...and if I can't give them to you I'll help you find someone who can. I know my limits as a musician and teacher and I will always be honest with you about those things. For example, if you decide you want to be a jazz guitarist, I can get you started on that path, but once you advance beyond my limits (I love jazz, but it's not my forte), I will help you find a teacher who better fits your needs and goals.

Finally, I have always felt that music should be fun and there's no reason that learning to play an instrument can't be fun too. That doesn't mean it won't be hard work, because, like anything else in life, as you get deeper into music it will not only become more rewarding, but more challenging too. Still, it should always be fun. I understand that each student is unique and what "fun" means for one student may be different for another, and so we will work at your pace and according to your goals and desires to create a program that is ideal for you.

My Method:

I use a variety of teaching techniques and tools in my lessons and will cater those tools toward the needs of each student. You don't need to read music to learn how to play an instrument, but I do use a number of simple, easy-to-learn written methods in my teaching. More importantly, I encourage my students to learn how to "hear" music so that as they advance they can begin to teach themselves how to play the things that they hear. Therefore, much of my teaching method focuses on seeing, hearing and feeling the music...this is the way almost all popular music has been taught and learned since the beginning of time, and with the right supplement of written methods I think it still comprises the most effective way to become a complete musician.

I can also record every lesson for my students and make the recording available as a CD or mp3 via email so that you can listen to the lesson as you practice on your own at home.

Additionally, if you are interested in songwriting or audio recording, we can incorporate lessons on those subjects into your curriculum as well. Understanding both is an essential part of being a well-rounded musician in any genre these days and both fields can open up wide worlds of expression and artistry to those willing to delve into them. I am passionate and knowledgeable about both songwriting and recording.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Guitars, Bass Guitar, Amps

*** Travel Equipment ***
Guitar, Bass Guitar, Amps

*** Specialties ***
Electric guitar, Acoustic Guitar, songwriting, bass, Harmonica, drums, music production, audio recording
Rock, Folk, Blues, Funk, Country, Bluegrass, Fingerstyle Guitar, Jazz

ed Haque. In addition, Dave has studied guitar with some of the best guitar players in the world including Dave Uhrich and Andy Timmons.

In 2003-2009, he produced and played guitar in the Chicago based hard rock group Disonic. In 2007, Disonic singed to Darkstar Records and released the E.P. The Value of Truth. The Value of Truth was distributed in the USA and Japan. In addition, it was distributed digitally world wide on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.
​
In 2009 he attended VanderCook College of Music and earned a Master’s Degree in Music Education. Currently, Dave is playing bass in the Chicago rock group I Decline and guitar in the Dave K. Group. This year, Dave is releasing his first solo instrumental guitar album under his own name. In addition, he continues to teach rock, jazz and classical guitar and bass in the Chicago area.

*** Lesson Details ***
As a private music instructor for the past 15 years, I personally have been granted the opportunity to teach a wide variety of music students. I have taught students ranging in age from 6 to 65. I have taught students from various ethnic and economic backgrounds. I have taught students with various physical, emotional, and learning disabilities. Regardless of the situation, I have always approached each lesson with the idea that every student deserves my best efforts as a teacher. This is because I believe that everyone, regardless of age, cultural heritage, ability, or financial circumstance deserve the opportunity to participate in the best music experiences possible.

I believe that everyone has the ability to learn to play a musical instrument and achieve success on it if they possess the desire to do so. This is because music is a vital part of the human experience. Music has the ability to turn ordinary life experiences into extraordinary ones. Think of everyday events such as: waking up in the morning, commuting to and from work or school, going through the work or school day, going to dinner with a friend or loved one, going to a sporting event,watching a movie or television show, or working out at the gym. Now, picture what these everyday events would be like without the presence of music. Without music, these experiences would be extremely dull and we as human beings would not be able to full appreciate the wonderful moments in our lives.

​As a music educator, my promise is to guide my students through the journey of learning to play music so they can experience the joy that it brings into their lives and the lives of others. I promise to help my students realize their full musical potential. I will always treat each student equally with fairness and respect, provide the best possible atmosphere for their growth, and recognize that each student is unique in how they learn and grow.

Lesson Topics Include
Music reading (Tablature, rhythmic notation, and standard notation)
Technical mastery of the instrument (Proper left and right hand technique, chords, scales, arpeggios, etc...)
Rhythm and counting
Repertoire (chosen by the individual student with the aid of the teacher)
Songwriting/Composition
Improvisation
Music business
Recording techniques​

*** Studio Equipment ***
Fender 2012 Jeff Beck Stratocaster
Fender 1992 Standard Stratocaster
1980 Gibson Flying V
1994 Washburn N4
2005 Washburn X50PROF
1996 Washburn HB 35
Fender 1965 Twin Reverb Amp
MacBook Pro loaded with Pro Tools, Finale, Garageband, Live, Guitar Pro 6, Band in a Box

*** Travel Equipment ***
Guitar and materials. Student should also have guitar and materials

*** Specialties ***
I am able to teach all styles of music but specialize in all forms of Rock, Jazz, Blues, and Classical

arn guitar and began by purchasing my own guitar and books and taught myself to play electrical and classical guitar. I followed my passion and continued my studies at Columbia College and graduated with a bachelors degree in Instrumental Performance.

Post-graduation, I have experienced playing in multiple bands, performing in concerts, teaching piano and guitar ranging in all levels at a music center and private home and enjoying some traveling.

Everything I have learned will be reflected in my lesson methodology and will help you learn to play proficiently in a timely manner. I look forward to meeting new prospective students while having fun teaching them music.

n skills are unparalleled amongst his peers and he is a proven / verifiable figure in the world of music on an international and highly respected level.

His music has been licensed and used by numerous companies such as Discovery Channel, Wynn Resorts, Universal, Sea World, Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz, Bose Audio to name a few.

He currently produces for multiple Billboard charting dance and pop acts who have received multiple iTunes top 100 dance and Billboard charting singles. TakeLesson's recently published this article by Nick titled "15 Things You Must Do to Make it in the Music Industry": http://bit.ly/1LNR0J4

Nick is a long time voting member of NARAS, The Grammy’s, and is currently active within the Chicago Chapter.

In Nick's lessons you will learn:
– Techniques used in creating exceptional productions and mixes
– Introduction to DAW's (Digital Audio Workstations)
– Laying the foundation for a successful song within a DAW
– Song construction, top line melody, and lyric writing
– Working with vocals and vocalists
– Recording all the elements, making the right choices
– Mixing, effect processing, and learning objectivity
– Mastering and finalizing your project
– Exposure, getting your track heard. The do’s and don'ts of the music industry
– Follow up. Keep producing and creating from what you have learned. I can be a valuable team member for you and add you to my business network.