I'm writing this only after the first lesson. Before my son was so frustrated with the flute he even hated the idea of taking lessons. I told him we'll try it and see how he feels after the class. Michael is patient, encouraging and knowledgable. He corrected my son's playing and tuned his flute. Most of all he gave my son confidence. My son told me I hit the bulls eye with my selection of his teacher. He said he can't wait to go next week! When watching I thought they were going quickly but my son seemed to catch on just as quick. I think Michael is aware of his pace and adjust to his students level. His location is isolated and idea for one on one teaching. There was plenty of parking and his location is easy to find.

TL;DR: Sign up now. Do it! Mr. Hoover is talented, professional, attentive, punctual, organized and effective. I've taken music lessons my entire life, and I've had bad, mediocre, good and excellent teachers before. Mr. Hoover is excellent. It _never_ once felt like he was phoning it in or killing time-- lessons were well-structured and tailored to help me achieve my personal goals as a musician. I'm moving away from Chicago for a new job opportunity and am sad to discontinue lessons with him, as I learned a lot in a very short amount of time. I encourage any folks at any age wishing to learn the flute to sign up.

Michael was an excellent flute teacher for my 5th-grade daughter! He's very patient and calm, which is critical for new learners, and gave my daughter a lot of confidence in her ability to play the flute. I highly recommend Michael!