Private Lesson Program
While the formula for success in the development of young musicians contains many parts, the guidance that a private instructor provides is paramount. Private instructors not only give students weekly instruction on how to improve musicianship and technical ability, but they also serve as trusted guides through various activities such as audition preparation, searching for the right college, and instrument purchase. The Quad City Symphony Orchestra has played an active role in providing these services to our community for decades and the QCSO Private Lesson Program matches students of all ages and ability levels with highly qualified instructors for weekly lessons at locations around the Quad Cities.
STUDENT PORTAL
Financial Aid
The QCSO Private Lesson Program is committed to preventing financial circumstances from becoming a barrier for any young musician’s participation in private study. Financial aid will be considered for any young musician who is accepted and submits the online financial aid application.
Musicians with a demonstrated need for financial assistance may be eligible for a partial or full financial aid award on a case-by-case basis. Families can expect strict confidentiality regarding their application and award results. The QCSO Staff is responsible for determining the number and amounts of awards provided. Every effort will be made to meet the needs of members and their families, however, we cannot guarantee that each member who applies will receive an award.
To be eligible for financial aid, a student must be of school-age, in good standing, and registered for weekly lessons. Students may only receive an award for lessons on one instrument.
Financial Aid Application
Application is for the QCSO Private Lesson Program and Quad City Symphony Youth Ensembles.
Tuition
- Lesson rates are set on a studio-by-studio basis. Please see the instructor list below for applicable lesson rates.
- Students may discontinue lessons at any time; however, they are not guaranteed acceptance in the same studio if they return.
- Students will be invoiced monthly before the 10th of each month for lessons occurring the previous month.
- Example of monthly invoicing: Billed lessons occurring between April 1-30 will be invoiced no later than the 10th of the following month (May).
- Invoice payments are to be paid directly to the QCSO Business Office within 10 days of the invoice date by:
- Check (mail to 327 Brady Street, Davenport, IA 52801
- Phone (call the business office at 563.424.7733)
- Online (instructions sent with each invoice)
- The QCSO expects timely payments and overdue payments may result in a delay in future lessons.
- If an instructor must miss a lesson, the student will not be billed for that week’s lesson.
- Students must give at least 24-hours notice when canceling a lesson. Failure to do so will result in the student being billed for that lesson. Exceptions in case of emergency will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Program Policies
Families will be invoiced monthly by the 10th of each month for lessons that occurred the following month:
– Invoices are due 10 days after being sent.
-Example of monthly invoicing: Billed lessons occurring between April 1-30 will be invoiced no later than the 10th of the following month (May).
-All invoice statements include the range of dates for the billed lessons included.
-If an instructor must miss a lesson, the student will not be billed for that week’s lesson.
-Students must give at least 24-hours notice when canceling a lesson. Failure to do so will result in the student being billed for that lesson. Exceptions in case of emergency will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
-All invoices not completed within 30 days of the invoice being sent will be issued a $25.00 non-refundable late fee. After the late fee is applied, there will be a one-week grace period before the student’s lesson day/time is available to new students.
Program Policies
-Practicing in between lessons is of the utmost importance. Follow your instructor’s guidance on the frequency and length of practice sessions.
-It is the responsibility of the student/parent to procure all required materials for private lesson instruction in a timely manner.
-If an instructor must miss a lesson, the student will not be billed for that week’s lesson.
-Students must give at least 24-hours notice when canceling a lesson. Failure to do so will result in the student being billed for that lesson. Exceptions in case of emergency will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
-Students should arrive on time with all the necessary materials for their lesson. Failure to do so may result in lesson cancellation without a refund.
-Instructors reserve the right to leave the lesson venue if a student does not arrive within the first 5 minutes of the scheduled lesson and has not communicated that they will be late. In this case, the lesson is non-refundable.
-Students must treat lesson spaces with respect. Any behavior that puts the QCSO’s community relationships at risk may result in removal from the program.
-While learning something new may result in feelings of frustration, students should keep a positive attitude throughout their lesson to the best of their ability.
-Disengaged behavior (i.e. routine unpreparedness, negative attitude, missing lessons) may result in removal from your assigned studio).
-Students under the age of 7 must have a parent/guardian present in each weekly lesson.
Private Lesson Instructors
Please peruse the following private instructor profiles and submit a registration form (above).
STRINGS
Kim Busic, violin/viola
Education:
BM – Butler University
MM – Boston Conservatory
Bio + Teaching Philosophy: Kim Busic is a violinist, violist, and teacher who plays with orchestras throughout the Midwest. She has been a substitute violinist with the Quad City Symphony Orchestra since 2018. Kim holds a Bachelors of Music from Butler University and a Masters of Music from Boston Conservatory at Berklee. She has studied violin with Larry Shapiro, Cornelius Chiu, and Bruce Molsky (old time fiddle). She also studied viola under Richard Auldon Clark and cello under Dr. William Grubb. Kim loves to travel and has participated in music programs in Italy, Slovenia, and Austria. As a teacher, she strives to build strong instrumental technique and passionate musicians through a comprehensive education in music, history, and culture. In her free time, Kim enjoys listening to her ever-growing vinyl collection of records spanning classical, pop, rock, folk, and various genres from around the world.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Monday – Thursday
Quad City Symphony Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Dortha DeWit, violin/viola
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Thursdays
Home in Bettendorf
Dr. Sam Stapleton, violin
Education:
BM – University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
MFA – University of Iowa
DMA – University of Iowa
Bio + Teaching Philosophy:Stapleton began his violin studies at the Preucil School of Music in Iowa City and has since earned his BM and MFA in violin performance (UNC-Chapel Hill and the University of Iowa) and his MA and Doctor of Musical Arts in orchestral conducting (UI). Sam has served as Music Director of the Cambridge Philharmonic and Boston New Music Initiative and has directed collegiate orchestra programs at Wartburg and Central Colleges. Dr. Stapleton has performed professionally as an orchestral violinist with numerous ensembles, including Orchestra Iowa, The Quad City Symphony Orchestra, La Crosse Symphony (WI), The Boston String Players, and Cape Ann Symphony (MA). In addition, Sam has enjoyed teaching the violin to students of all ages for over 20 years.
In addition to teaching, he will also be the Augustana College Orchestra Director for the 2023-2024 school year.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays + Thursdays
Quad City Symphony Orchestra Office
Dr. Andrew Gentzsch, violin/viola
Education:
BM – University of Wisconsin – Madison
MFA – University of Delaware
DMA – University of Iowa
Bio + Teaching Philosophy: Listening is the most important thing as a musician. We must know what we want our music to sound like, through the study of recordings and attending live performances. We need to listen to our own sound, and adjust our tone, intonation, or technique to achieve the musical goals we have for ourselves. It is even important to listen to other people, to truly hear what they are saying, to hear their own music, so we can communicate with them and play music together!
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays
Quad City Symphony Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Rachel Peters, violin
Education:
BM: University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music
MM: Northwestern University Bienen School of Music
DMA: University of Iowa (in progress)
Teaching Philosophy: My teaching philosophy is that you can do anything you set your mind to. As a teacher it is my responsibility to help students accomplish their goals and to do so by providing students with tools that they need to accomplish those goals.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$62/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Sundays
QCSO Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Sabrina Tabby, violin/viola
Education:
BM – Bard College Conservatory of Music
MM – Northwestern University
Teaching Philosophy: My teaching philosophy is simple: to establish tension-free technique to cultivate artistry, to develop the student’s ears, and foster problem-solving methods so that they may become their own best teachers.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Virtual by appointment
David Rosales, violin/viola
Education:
BM – Coe College
Teaching Philosophy: Music education should be accessible to all students regardless of background or socio-economic status. My work as a teacher has given me valuable experience in regards to teaching and programming both classic and current orchestral repertoire that students from diverse backgrounds can relate to on a cultural level.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Weekdays
Quad City Symphony Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Required Materials:
-Instrument
-Pencil
-Notebook for homework notes
-Music assigned by teacher (Suzuki book etc.)
Will Samorey, violin/viola
Education:
BM – University of Western Ontario
Teaching Philosophy: As a mentor, I see it as my job to “raise the bar” and balance my students’ work ethic with realistic expectations that appropriately challenge them to achieve better results and keep their progress in line with the best students from across the state. My lessons help prepare students for the real world by promoting; accountability, preparation, confidence, and critical thinking skills as well as performance techniques and stage presence.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Virtual by appointment
Janis Sakai, violin/viola
Education:
BM – University of Denver
MM – Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Teaching Philosophy: It is my goal to inspire students to become lifelong learners in the performing arts, to motivate future artists through performance opportunities, to deliver high quality learning and teaching experiences, and to create a safe environment where anyone can learn and will feel welcomed. Music is and should be accessible for everyone.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Thursdays 3:30 – 6:30 PM
Online lessons via Zoom
Elisabeth Logan, cello
Education:
BM – University of Missouri – St. Louis
MM – DePaul University
Teaching Philosophy: I seek to create a positive learning environment in which each students’ needs are met in a way that leaves them encouraged and equipped with the tools they need to problem solve challenges they face in the practice room as well as in everyday life. I believe that in a safe learning space, mistakes can be seen as opportunities for growth and that there is no such thing as a silly question. It is my goal that students leave their lessons feeling empowered and optimistic about their musical journey.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays + Tuesdays
Additional times may be available upon request.
Home in Moline
Dr. Mike White, bass
Education:
BM – Illinois State University
MM – University of Iowa
DMA – University of Iowa
Teaching Philosophy: My teaching has a strong emphasis on the physiological aspects of bass playing, making sure that students are able to play with as much efficiency and comfort as possible. I have always encouraged students to follow their musical interests and I am happy to work with students on repertoire that engages those interests. Additionally, I look to support their growth as musicians with a healthy foundation of technical instruction.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Monday – Thursday
Augustana College
Emily Wren Baxter, harp
Education:
BM – Roosevelt University
BA – Roosevelt University
Teaching Philosophy: My philosophy is to help create a safe, fun space where students of any age can learn to master the harp, develop a critical mind and ear, and become well-rounded musicians.
Rates:
$42/30 min
$57/45 min
$72/60 min
When & Where:
Fridays + Sundays
Instrument Resources:
Students do not need to bring a harp to their lesson, but should have their own instrument for practicing. Beginner students should purchase Suzuki Book 1, and more experienced students should bring their most recent work. All students should bring a pencil and a practice book/spiral notebook for lesson notes.
WOODWINDS
Lynne Stukart, flute/piccolo
Education:
BA – Augustana College
MM – The University of Akron
Teaching Philosophy: As your teacher, I aim to create a high-quality learning experience that is fun, creative, and supportive! I personalize lesson plans for each student to help guide them in reaching their goals and dreams. Every student becomes a valued member of our flute community where they can safely share ideas, explore and discover, and become confident musicians. Ultimately, students become lifelong learners and well-rounded musicians who love music and better understand the world around them. The benefits of my teaching include enhanced language and listening skills, critical thinking, creativity, cooperation, belonging, and confidence.
Rates:
$42/30 minutes
$77/60 minutes (advanced)
When & Where:
Mondays
Home in Bettendorf
Rose Bishop, flute/piccolo
Education:
BM – Georgia State University
MM – University of Iowa
Teaching Philosophy: As a committed music educator and performer, I believe in developing a well-rounded and lifelong flutist and musician. I strive to create a nurturing environment in which each student can set, attain, and maintain their individual and professional musical goals. As each student is different, it is my belief that building a strong foundation also requires a building of self-esteem and confidence through learning repertoire and developing a core technical foundation.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays
St. Ambrose University Music House
2021 Brown St. | Davenport, IA 52804
Dr. Dawn Farmer, clarinet
Education:
Ph.D. in Music Education from Arizona State University
MA in Music Education from the University of Maryland
BM in Music Education from the University of Arizona
Teaching Philosophy: I truly enjoy working with young and developing musicians, and I approach each student as an individual with unique goals and pathways to success. I strive to meet students where they are, develop strategies to get them where they want to be, and work alongside them as both a teacher and support system, helping them to meet and exceed goals. I believe that it is essential to guide students through their musical development, provide constructive feedback, share quality and engaging music/repertoire, and support their musical growth.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min
$67/60 min
When & Where:
Weekdays
Augustana College
Dawn Higgs, clarinet
Education:
BME — Harding University
Teaching Philosophy: As a music teacher, I have a passion for connecting, building relationships, and encouraging students to be their very best. Learning to play an instrument is an exercise in perseverance and commitment. I love to help students learn the skills necessary to become a fantastic instrumentalist and then help them grow as individuals. My private lessons are student-centered and formed by each student’s needs.
Rates:
$35/30 min
When & Where:
Tuesdays 3:30 – 7:00 PM
Bethany Baptist Church | Moline, IL
Required Materials:
*Note: Please do not purchase until after the first lesson*
Method Book
Pencil
Dr. David Cyzak, oboe
Education:
BA – Oberlin College Conservatory of Music
MM + Artist Diploma – Hartt School of Music
DMA – University of Illinois
Rates:
$40/30 min
$56.50/45 min
$70/60 min
When & Where:
Wednesdays
Quad City Symphony Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Chelsea Sammons, oboe
Education:
BA – College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University
Teaching Philosophy: I seek to develop young oboists’ musically and personally to become motivated, responsible, and persevering individuals. Music teaches more than notes and rhythms, and I love discovering ways to apply the lessons we’ve learned in lessons to other areas of life.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
When & Where:
Mondays + Thursdays
First Lutheran Church | Geneseo, IL
Tuesdays + Wednesdays
Quad City Symphony Orchestra Office
Matthew Kowalczyk, bassoon
Education:
BME – Illinois State University
MM – University of Arizona
Teaching Philosophy: My favorite moment of teaching is being able to see the “a-ha!” moments when working with a student, when they are able to perform some technique or finally come to an understanding of an idea or concept. It’s an opportunity to see in real-time the student’s growth as a musician, and to celebrate a small occasion of success.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Monday – Wednesday 2:00 – 7:00 PM
Quad City Symphony Orchestra Office
327 Brady St
Davenport, IA 52801
Dr. Randall Hall, saxophone
Education:
Dr. Hall holds degrees from the the Eastman School of Music (DMA), the New England Conservatory (MM), the Conservatoire National de Région de Boulogne-Billancourt, France (Premier prix), and Warner Pacific College (BS). He is the recipient of numerous honors including a Fulbright Grant, Frank Huntington Beebe Grant, Presser Music Award, and first prize in the Concour Région Ile-de-France.
Randall Hall is Professor of Music at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where he teaches saxophone, improvisation, and music history. He has performed throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia and has recorded on Innova and Medusa Critical Recordings. The Wire says he plays with “utter confidence,” “fire and teeth,” and “unexpectedly tough beauty.” Hall is an endorsing artist for Selmer Paris saxophones and is the founder and Artistic Director of the Shockingly Modern Saxophone Festival.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Wednesdays
Augustana College
Dr. Joel Linscheid, saxophone + jazz improvisation
Education:
BA, Music Education, Bethel College
MM, Jazz Performance and Pedagogy, University of Colorado
DMA, Jazz Saxophone Performance, New England Conservatory
Teaching Philosophy: I aim to engage, inspire, and support my students as they develop their musical skills. I enjoy teaching students of all ages and abilities and work to tailor my teaching to each student’s individual needs and musical interests. Regardless of musical level, my goal is the same with every student—to help them improve on their instrument and reach their musical goals. My students can expect to work on fundamentals, repertoire, music theory, and more, all in a positive and supportive environment.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays + Wednesdays
Augustana College
BRASS
Marc Zyla, horn
Education:
BM – West Virginia University
MM – Carnegie Mellon University
DMA – (Pending), University of Illinois
Teaching Philosophy: Sound fundamentals are key to success on any instrument. I believe that with the perfect mixture of focus in private lessons and routine practice, all students can master the instrument and become a more musical and curious person.
Rates:
$42/30 min
$57/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$72/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Tuesdays + Wednesdays
Quad City Symphony Orchestra Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Laurel Filzen Etzel, horn
Education:
BA – Western Illinois University
MM – Western Michigan University
Teaching Philosophy: Whether in private lessons or an ensemble, I teach with a holistic approach. In Holistic medicine, practitioners treat the “whole person” rather than focusing too narrowly on single symptoms and emphasize the connections between the mind and the body. In my teaching, I focus on the connection between mind, body, and making music, the ‘whole person”. Instructional time with me includes discussion about physical fitness, mental fitness, and staying “fit” as a musician through sufficient practice time. I engage students where they are when I first meet them and offer positive support to help them set goals and move forward where they want to go as well as help them to apply what they are learning and practicing through music to other areas of their lives. This is true whether they are making music for fun, to enrich their liberal arts education, or to advance their musical skills to be a professional musician. I enjoy working with students of all ages from preschool to adult, and feel energized and fired up after teaching!
Rates:
$32/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Tuesdays 4:30 – 5:30 PM in Geneseo
Tuesdays 6:30 – 8:30 PM at Augustana College
Wednesdays 4:00 – 6:00 PM in Geneseo
Thursdays 4:30 – 8:30 PM in Geneseo
Saturdays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM in Moline
Kristen Ronning, horn
Education:
BM – Bowling Green State University
MM – Roosevelt University
DMA – University of Iowa (In Progress)
Teaching Philosophy: My goal as an educator is to empower my students and share my love for music. I believe through a combination of enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work all students can accomplish their musical goals. Weekly lessons are an opportunity for us to work on each student’s passions and curate specific curriculum to aid in their development.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays
Quad City Symphony Orchestra Office
Lindsey Frazier, trumpet
Education:
BM – Northwestern University
MM – Roosevelt University
Teaching Philosophy: My job as an educator is to pass on my love and enthusiasm for music. Every one of us has a unique connection with music, and in my role, I help the students discover what about it excites them. Curating lesson plans that cater to the student’s learning style and individual goals can nurture their passion and aid in their development.
Rates:
$47/30 min
$67/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$87/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Virtual by appointment
Kevin Sells, trumpet
Education:
BM – Texas Tech University
MM – Boston Conservatory
DMA – University of Iowa (In Process)
Bio + Teaching Philosophy:
Kevin Sells is currently working to obtain his Doctorate in Trumpet Performance at the University of Iowa where he is the School of Music Performance Fellow and Trumpet Teaching Assistant. Prior to the University of Iowa, Kevin received his Masters Degree in Trumpet Performance at Boston Conservatory at Berklee where he studied under Tom Siders. Kevin received his Bachelors in Trumpet Performance from Texas Tech University where he studied with Allen Vizzutti and Will Strieder.
Self expression is vital for every person, no matter the medium. Kevin believes that as a teacher his role is to help students find their own voice and express themselves through music. Technique and fundamentals are important to facilitate musical expression, so Kevin focuses on sound fundamentals, artistic expression, and creative problem solving skills that are critical, but also the development of a passion for music that students can embrace to enjoy further learning outside of their weekly lessons.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Tuesdays + Fridays
Quad City Symphony Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Testimonial:
“Our son began lessons with Kevin Sells over a year ago when he was 5 years old. Reece was provided a cornet to practice with at home and bring to lessons. It remains one of his most treasured objects at our home. Without the support of borrowing an instrument, I would have probably had reservations to beginning lessons at a young age. Lessons with Kevin have been an incredibly positive and a wonderful learning experience for Reece. Kevin continually shares his experiences and expertise as a musician. All of Reece’s playing, practice and learning during lessons are meet with kindness and patience. Kevin is immensely positive and supportive. Learning how to play and independently read music continues to be a very empowering experience in his life.”
Ben McKay, trumpet
Education:
BM – Augustana College
Bio + Teaching Philosophy:
Trumpet players have the opportunity to play in a diverse range of musical groups that use many different styles. I believe a trumpet player’s biggest assets are adaptability and versatility. After developing a strong foundation, I encourage my students to expand their view on trumpet playing to see all the instrument has to offer.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Fridays + Saturdays
QCSO Office
Martin Gelwasser, Trombone
Education:
BM in Trombone Performance at The Cleveland Institute of Music
MM in Orchestral Studies at The Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University
Teaching Philosophy:
I want to create a positive and healthy environment for students to grow into well-rounded and thoughtful musicians. I achieve this through methodical constructive feedback, consistent focus on the fundamentals of brass playing, and vigilant modeling of correct and desirable behavior on and off the instrument for my students
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min
$67/60 min
When & Where:
Mondays
St. Ambrose University Music House
Ryan Swedean, Low Brass
Education:
MM Music Education – The University of Southern Mississippi
BM – The University of South Dakota
Teaching Philosophy:
My teaching philosophy for private trombone and low brass lessons is rooted in the belief that every student possesses the potential for musical excellence. I am dedicated to cultivating this potential by fostering a supportive and tailored learning environment. I prioritize fundamental technical skills, such as embouchure development and breath control, while encouraging creativity and musical expression.
I aim to instill a strong foundation that enables students to become well-rounded musicians. I emphasize the importance of discipline, consistent practice, and goal-setting, empowering students to take ownership of their musical journey.
Above all, I strive to boost students’ confidence through positive reinforcement and constructive feedback. I view teaching as a collaborative partnership, guiding students to discover their unique musical voices and fostering a lifelong love for playing the trombone and other low brass instruments.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min
$67/60 min
When & Where:
Thursdays 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturdays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
QCSO Office
Anthony Hernandez, Brass
Education:
BM – Illinois State University
MM – Sam Houston State University
Teaching Philosophy:
Teaching, learning, and music are passions of mine, and it is my belief that anyone can learn to make music! Whether you are a beginner who has never played an instrument before, or an experienced musician, I have experience with all levels and am thrilled to teach you!
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min
$67/60 min
When & Where:
Weekdays in Geneseo, IL
Michael Rockstroh, Euphonium
BM- Western Illinois University
MM- Royal Northern College of Music
Teaching Philosophy: I recognize that all students are unique and require diverse learning styles in order to flourish. I teach with an individualized approach to each student, creating plans to meet and surpass their goals as musicians. My approach to playing and performing is practical; building strong fundamentals improves confidence and creates a space for musical expression.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Tuesdays + Wednesdays
QCSO Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA
Golden Lund, Low Brass
Education:
BM – University of Utah
MM – Indiana University
DMA – University of Nebraska – Lincoln
Teaching Philosophy: What I instruct and demonstrate for my students means very little if they do not sense my passion and commitment to the art form, and my personal investment in their individual success. Instruction must always be accompanied by contagious enthusiasm. This occurs through helping them catch a vision of what they can become, sharing experiences of what has fueled my devotion, and celebrating even the smallest accomplishments.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Weekdays
SAU Music House
AJ Skinner, Low Brass
Education:
BM – Wartburg College
Teaching Philosophy: Playing a musical instrument opens a world of opportunities for personal growth- whether it be socially, academically, professionally, or simply for the joy of making music. As a teacher I help my students by meeting them where they are in the learning process, and encourage them to progress toward their goals one step at a time. I work with students on a wide range of musical skills, including sound production, music theory and history, audition preparation, and playing alone or with a group.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min (intermediate/advanced)
$67/60 min (advanced only)
When & Where:
Mondays + Tuesdays
QCSO Office
327 Brady St | Davenport, IA 52801
Percussion
Dr. Tony Oliver, percussion
Education:
BM – University of Iowa
MA – University of Iowa
DMA – Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers University
Teaching Philosophy: I enjoy teaching students of all ages and my teaching philosophy is similar for all of them: I engage with the students wherever they are at in their musical development and work with them in a positive, supportive manner to help them strive for their musical goals. I can guarantee, having taught students who range in age from 10 to 95 years old over the last 30 years, that where students may be on their musical journeys can vary greatly, but a positive, supportive approach, which is an unchanging aspect of my teaching style, can effectively get them to where they are going. Students can expect to work on basic music theory and listening, the techniques to play their instruments and make good sounds, and ways to interact with their musical environment, be it in a band, orchestra, school audition or contest, or simply playing for their own enjoyment.
Rates:
$37/30 min
When & Where:
Mondays + Tuesdays
Augustana College, Bergendoff Hall
Required Materials:
– Access to practice pad, snare drum, or other equipment, as needed for private practice
– Purchase of lesson books/materials if not provided by instructor
– Pencil
– Metronome (stand alone or phone app)
– Smile
VOICE
Dr. Nathan Windt, voice
Education:
BM – North Park University (Music Education, K-12 certification)
MM + DMA – University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (Master of Music Choral Conducting; Doctor of Musical Arts Choral Conducting)
Teaching Philosophy: Every student has the right to an exceptional musical education. I want my voice students to have the same amazing opportunities I had to sing beloved master works, while also learning music by under-represented composers and genres in a safe, respectful environment.
Rates:
$37/30 min
When & Where:
Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Thursdays 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Saturdays
St. Ambrose University
PIANO
Dr. Robert Efline, Piano
Education:
B.M., Illinois Wesleyan, Piano Performance and Pedagogy
M.M., Rice University, Piano Performance
D.M.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Piano Performance
Teaching Philosophy: In my studio, I seek to develop each student’s natural curiosity about music, and intrinsic motivation to succeed. The specific course of study is crafted around the student’s goals as a musician, with the focus on developing skills that will lead to lifelong music making.
Rates:
$37/30 min
$52/45 min
$67/60 min
When & Where:
Mondays + Tuesdays
Augustana College
Would you like to support this program? The average cost of a 30-minute lesson is $37.00. Any donation made to the Private Lesson Underwriting Fund will ensure that all students, regardless of financial circumstances, will be able to take advantage of this opportunity. Click on the button below to help a student.
Private Lesson Program underwriting and financial aid support provided by the Morency Family Foundation, Margaret Skinner Endowed Fund, and many individual donors.