Guitar & Ukulele Lessons in Orland Park, IL
Developing confidence & creativity through music
The guitar is one of the most versatile instruments. It shows up in the classical concert hall, it’s a staple throughout commercial pop music, and it’s found in folk music all around the world. With such a diverse set of applications, it’s not surprising that approaches to teaching and learning guitar vary widely. Our approaches do, too, depending on the student’s goals. That said, here’s a basic outline of our approach.
We welcome musicians of all skill levels, and our instructors work with you to create a customized curriculum. Whether you’ve never touched a guitar or ukulele before, want to prepare for entrance into a conservatory, or desire to play your favorite songs, we can help you achieve your goals.
Our Approach to Guitar & Ukulele Lessons
Get StartedGuitar Lessons Should Be Fun!
We all know the feeling: you hear your favorite song come on and you can’t resist the urge to play along on your air guitar! Here at The Music Connection, we can help you convert your musical fantasies into reality – while preserving that irresistible sense of joy you feel when playing along. We want each of our students to LOVE their musical experience with us!
Whether you come to us planning on becoming the next Jimi Hendrix or simply wanting to play songs around the campfire with your friends, our top-notch instructors will help you progress quickly toward your goals while ensur
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Regardless of your ultimate goals, our teachers will prioritize strong fundamentals including proper posture, hand positioning, chords, fretting, picking, and strumming. As students progress, these basics will become second nature – and serve as the foundation from which students can apply their skills across a variety of genres and styles.
We want our guitar students to be literate, well-rounded musicians. Beginners and seasoned performers alike will find value in our approach at The Music Connection, coupling technical instruction with elements of music theory and music history in each lesson.
Your Musical Interests & Goals
Your unique interests and background will help guide your experience at The Music Connection. We teach beginners, intermediate, and advanced students who are interested in a variety of styles – including rock, jazz, classical, pop, blues, and more. Whether you’re inspired by modern day singer-songwriters or the rockers of the 1970s, we can’t wait to get started with you!
Our seasoned instructors will draw upon years of playing, performing, and teaching experience to guide you in improving your skills and exploring the many possibilities of your instrument, and advancing toward your goals at a pace that works for you.
Our Guitar & Ukulele Teachers
Private guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection are fun, engaging, and positive for musicians of all ages and skill levels. Our instructors are skilled musicians with teaching and performing experience. We’re passionate about the guitar and ukulele and will teach you the techniques, fundamentals, and expressions you need to play these instruments properly. Your teacher will also listen to you and create personalized lesson plans based on your interests, goals, and needs.
Bob Stern
Guitar & Ukulele
Learning to play music should be fun! With over 30 years of experience teaching guitar and electric bass, that is the philosophy that I bring to music lessons. As a professional musician…
Steve Lawler
Guitar
Steve Lawler graduated from Valparaiso University. He has been playing guitar on and off for about forty years. Steve has been teaching guitar at The Music Connection since it was founded over…
Zoe Perillo
Violin, Viola, Guitar & Ukulele
Zoe is a violin, viola, and guitar teacher. She began playing violin in fifth grade not too far from here, at Manhattan Junior High School where she would rehearse before being bussed…
Richard Valadez
Guitar
Ritch Valadez started playing guitar at age 8, first self taught and learning by ear and then by studying Jazz and Classical performance at the Chicago Academy for the Arts under Jason Patera and at the Chicago College for the Performing Arts…
What you can expect
Together we explore student musical goals.
We match students with one of our expert instructors.
Start attending lessons! Parents can receive progress reports each week.
We offer a variety of plans to fit your schedule & budget
Frequently Asked Questions
Get StartedWhat is the minimum age to start guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection?
To play the guitar and ukulele, you need dexterity, coordination, and finger strength. That’s why we recommend players wait until age 5 or older to begin lessons. However, our skilled instructors are prepared to teach students of all ages and skill levels and look forward to nurturing your musical interests and talents.
Do I need any prior experience?
Students of all skill levels are welcome to take guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection. While prior experience is not necessary, we invite you to bring a curious, determined, and patient attitude to every lesson. As a beginner, you’ll learn basic foundational techniques, such as how to hold the instrument, maintain proper posture, and read music. As an intermediate or advanced player, you’ll hone your technical ability and learn the skills you need to achieve your goals.
What styles of guitar and ukulele can I learn?
Acoustic, electric, and classical guitar and ukulele music is found in all genres, including classical, flamenco, rock, metal, pop, country, bluegrass, folk, R&B, and blues. The Music Connection lessons focus on the style you prefer. We can pivot with you, too, if you decide to switch to a different style in the future.
What books will I need?
You receive the personalized guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection. Rather than a set curriculum for every player, we tailor the lessons to fit your personality, interests, and needs. Your teacher will give you a customized list of books to buy based on your specific goals.
Is the guitar and/or ukulele the right fit for me?
The guitar and ukulele are portable instruments that can move seamlessly from a campground to a conservatory. Discover the beautiful sounds these instruments make and learn how to play with skill thanks to guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection.
The instructors at The Musical Connection are here to help you find the right instrument that fits your musical preferences and budget. Each guitar and ukulele player has a different motivation for learning the instrument. Maybe you’re inspired to play in a school orchestra or garage band, wish to write and record original songs or want to improve your concentration, dexterity, or stage presence. Take a few lessons and ensure you are able to hold and play the instrument properly and persevere through lessons and practice with determination, patience, and curiosity. Your teacher can discuss these factors with you and help you decide if the guitar and ukulele are right for you.
Why come to The Music Connection for guitar and ukulele lessons?
Guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection teach you a wide range of skills. We reinforce proper posture and technique, share music theory facts and the fundamentals of each instrument, and encourage you to creatively express yourself as you play. With guitar and ukulele lessons, you gain a well-rounded education and have fun playing these versatile stringed instruments.
Some guitar and ukulele players teach themselves to play, but lessons from a trained instructor at The Music Connection give you a solid foundation for future success. Our teachers offer engaging, student-focused lessons that are personalized to meet your unique needs and goals. We nurture your growth as an individual and as a musician, and we adapt to your changing interests and dreams. From beginner to professional, discover your potential and have fun with guitar and ukulele lessons at The Music Connection.
Ready to begin guitar and ukulele lessons in Orland Park?
There’s no better time to start fun, creative, and engaging guitar and ukulele lessons. Contact The Music Connection today and begin your new adventure. We’re ready to support your growth and help you achieve your musical goals.