In her performing career Emily enjoys working in a wide range of musical styles and groups. She has an orchestra position, performs with a contemporary ensemble, plays tenor sax and flute with a professional dance and wedding band, and works regularly for musical theater productions. She is also an avid free improvisor and loves creative projects involving collaborative composition. Emily brings this diverse experience to her teaching and finds joy in being able to guide and encourage her students with whatever direction their interests take.
In addition to her private studio she is a member of the woodwind factually at Harold Washington College and serves as woodwind instructor for the British International School. She holds a Master of Music degree from Northwestern University.
Teaching Method
Emily's teaching method centers around intuitive learning techniques based on how our bodies naturally learn. This avoids frustration and allows the student to focus on higher level concepts such as musicianship and expression.
Included is an emphasis on learning self-sufficient practicing skills so that students can independently make musical decisions and will continue to learn and improve outside of lessons.
Lessons focus on the student's personal goals and interests such as learning classic repertoire, exploring jazz and improvisation or mastering the basics of a new instrument. Emily also has ample experience helping students with more specific goals such as in-school chair placement exams, solo and ensemble and college preparation.