anything but a typical learning experience

mission statement

Every student deserves a relaxed and supportive environment in which to grow both as a musician and as a person; the study of music is not merely an accessory to a well-rounded education, it is essential for one. No one is unteachable; music should and will be accessible to all. Regardless of one's area of study, music demands self-discipline, catalyzes profound self-expression, and provides self-esteem where there may have been none, allowing each of us to face an ever-changing and often frightening world with renewed confidence and creativity.

what my studio offers

I offer 30-, 45-, and 60-minute private lessons in a unique, flexible environment rich in diverse musical sources from all time periods and world locations. I am a musician first and a flutist second, therefore I do not adhere rigidly to any one particular method or ideology. Thus, I measure my own success as an educator by how versatile my students are, not by how fast they can play.

areas of instruction

Primary instrument: Flute
Other areas of study: Music Theory, Composition, Music Notation, Vocal Coaching, Ear Training, Sightsinging
Primary styles: Classical, improvisation

faq

Here can be found information about my policies, rates, hours, and tons of other important information. If you have any follow-ups or have a particular inquiry that isn't covered here, do not hesitate to contact me.


  1. How much do you charge for lessons?
    30 minutes: $25; 45 minutes: $35; 1 hour: $45
  2. Are there any hidden costs?
    Instrument maintenance and sheet music are the two primary incidental costs involved with music lessons, the same way one would factor in the cost of keeping one's car in tune and full of gas. It's wise to budget another $25-50 a month or so as the purchase of new music or maintenance of one's instrument becomes necessary.
  3. I doubt my child is headed for Carnegie Hall. Why bother with lessons?
    The study of music allows your child to apply the knowledge he or she has acquired in entirely unique ways. Additionally, the one-on-one attention is invaluable as class sizes continue to balloon; the development of one's creativity and imagination require as much attention as rote memorization of facts.
  4. I can't possibly afford lessons and an instrument.
    I feel your pain -- I am in the process of acquiring a number of student flutes of good quality to be lent out free of charge to students of mine that truly need them. I will keep you informed as this goal becomes a reality.
  5. It's very expensive to be purchasing music and paying for lessons. What's your stance on photocopies?
    I no longer provide photocopies, both as a result of tightening of copyright laws, but also because composers rely on the purchase of music as a part of their livelihood.
  6. Do you offer introductory lessons?
    Absolutely. I provide a free 30-minute lesson as a means for both parent and child to investigate whether or not I am the right teacher for them. The first 15 minutes is an open lesson, with the remainder of the time slot being reserved for questions and concerns.
  7. Where are you located?
    In that ambiguous area of the North Side where Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, and Andersonville all mesh together; I am very close to the Damen Brown line stop, as well as within a block from the Damen and Foster buses.
  8. It's far more convenient for you to come to me. Is this possible?
    I prefer to teach in my home, as I am able to teach as much as possible without spending any time in transit. However, it may be possible to work something out, so be sure and get in touch with me.
  9. What ages do you teach?
    I've taught students as young as 8 and as old as 60 -- any age, any level.
  10. What styles do you teach?
    All manner of classical, but also jazz -- particularly improvisation, which can apply to either of the above styles. Much of the work I do professionally involves flying by the seat of my pants musically, which is something I enjoy passing along to my students.
  11. When are lessons available?
    I teach Monday through Thursday early afternoons and evenings. If you have need of an alternate time, it is certainly possible something can be worked out.
  12. Do you teach on weekends?
    Not usually, given the number of performances that take place over the weekend. This is not always the case, however. Get in touch with me to see what can be worked out.
  13. May I have more than one lesson per week?
    Absolutely, if this is an option for you.
  14. May I have lessons every other week?
    Unfortunately, no. Past experience has taught me that it is far more beneficial to take a 30-minute lesson every week as opposed to an hour every other week.
  15. Are group lessons available?
    Absolutely. I am happy to teach up to two students at a time, which is often an appealing option for younger students.
  16. My child is very young. Do you offer shorter lessons?
    The minimum lesson time I offer is 30 minutes, but be assured that for younger students this length of time is long enough to make significant progress but not so long that they begin to lose interest.
  17. May I sit in my child's lesson?
    You are more than welcome to have a cup of tea and observe your child's lesson, particularly if you wish to touch base with exactly what your child is learning. However, I ask that this not occur weekly, as it affords your child maximum freedom without feeling like twenty pairs of eyes are on him or her.
  18. How can I be sure my child is learning what s/he needs to be?
    I have a policy of providing frequent progress updates to parents for no other reason than the fact that your child's success depends entirely on your direct involvement, particularly with making sure practice hours actually happen. Additionally, if you are concerned at any time, you are always welcome to email or call me at home.
  19. How are lessons billed?
    Lessons are billed monthly, with payment due on or before the first lesson of the month. I will send out invoices two weeks prior with all previous financial information recorded for our mutual benefit.
  20. What is your cancellation policy?
    Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance will be made up at a time convenient for both teacher and student; cancellations made after that time will not be made up.
  21. I have a question that is not covered here.
    I have an answer for you! Fire away.