Joe Drennan Music

Specialties

1^st ½-​hour lesson free! Private lessons in guitar, piano, bass, and music theory to students of all ages, and at all levels of experience.

You will learn technical fundamentals, music theory, sight reading, and ear training, and incorporate these into songs that you are most interested in learning. I’ll also encourage you to experiment and to improvise, and to write your own music. All this will take place in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.

I have a very diverse musical background with teaching and performing experience in a wide variety of styles and settings. This helps me to tailor each lesson to your individual goals and personality. After teaching music for almost 20 years, I have learned the importance of not overwhelming you with too much information. I make an effort to only focus on one or two concepts at a time, and believe that you learn best when you are having fun.

In addition, I am very interested in physical and mental health (specifically yoga and meditation), and how these relate to making music. While music theory and technique are important, they can also be a hindrance if they prevent you from exploring and playing without tension and fear. As a teacher, I am passionate about helping you develop your own musical voice, while making sure you enjoy the process.

I look forward to working with you or your family in the near future!

History

Established in 2014.

I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-​Champaign where I played in the 1^st jazz band (guitar), 1^st jazz combo (piano), classical guitar quartet, and an original rock band (guitar and vocals). In addition to teaching, my professional experience includes working as a musical director for Second City Theatricals (the renowned comedy theater based in Chicago), recording and touring with Wind-​Up recording artists Company of Thieves (keyboards), and playing guitar onboard cruise ships.