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Private Lessons Group Classes Musical Theater
779 379 2437
Our brand new Simply Group Lessons use a community-centered approach for the foundational years of instrumental instruction. Our suite of Simply Group Lesson offerings begin with Fall 2023's Simply Group Guitar and with a Simply Group Suzuki Violin.
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While it is true that some students are ready to jump into one-on-one musical instruction, we are passionate about leaning into the social and emotional benefits of playing music with others. When you choose Simply Group Lessons for your student (or yourself!), you are making a commitment to their musical development that will resonate far beyond the classroom. What does this look like in practice?
Our Simply Group Lesson suite features:
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Weekly 45-minute lessons focused on process and building an excellent foundation.
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Sequential curricula combining instrument instruction with musicianship.
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Low-pressure performance opportunities in December and June that are focused on building confidence and community.
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An inclusive and supportive classroom where students feel safe and part of the group.
What You Get During Each Level
Weekly 45-minute group lessons with our superstar teachers Claire and Mitch
An engaged, supportive community of students learning music together
Learn proper technique, play songs you love, and move at your own pace through each class
School-year classes in various levels from Sep - Jul (see schedule below)
Learning with others in a group setting releases anti-stress hormones and keeps you relaxed and energized
Participate in our engaging Winter and Summer Red Carpet Recitals (optional)
Mon 4:10 - 4:55pm
45 minutes | Once a week | 9 classes per level
Level 1: Sep 11 - Nov 13 | No class 10/9
Level 2: Nov 27 - Feb 5 | No classes 12/25, 1/1
Level 3: Feb 12 - Apr 15 | No class 3/25
Level 4: Apr 22 - Jun 17
Mon 7:40 - 8:25pm
45 minutes | Once a week | 9 classes per level
Level 1: Sep 11 - Nov 13 | No class 10/9
Level 2: Nov 27 - Feb 5 | No classes 12/25, 1/1
Level 3: Feb 12 - Apr 15 | No class 3/25
Level 4: Apr 22 - Jun 17
Each level is a prerequisite for the next one. However, if you have played before, give us a call to see if you should start with Level 1 or if you should be placed in a different level depending on your skill.
Which level should I join?
Thu 4:40 - 5:25pm
45 minutes | Once a week | 11 classes per level
Level 1: Sep 7 - Nov 16
Level 2: Exact dates TBA
Level 3: Exact dates TBA
Which level should I join?
Each level is a prerequisite for the next one. However, if you have played before, give us a call to see if you should start with Level 1 or if you should be placed in a different level depending on your skill.
Meet our awesome Simply Group Lesson teachers!
Simply Group Guitar: Mitch Elzinga
Mitchell is a multi-talented musician with over a decade of experience in various instruments, including piano, guitar, ukulele, bass, trumpet, and singing. He has a strong foundation in classical and jazz/blues music, which is reflected in his style. When he's not teaching music, he enjoys spending time with his furry friends, rock climbing, and performing in musicals. With a passion for indie folk and indie rock, he believes in instilling lifelong learning in students.
Simply Group Suzuki Violin: Claire Paolone
Claire is an accomplished musician with a master's degree in Viola Performance from DePaul University. She has been actively involved in various orchestras and ensembles throughout her academic journey, including DePaul's Concerto Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, and Ensemble. She also received her Bachelors in Viola Performance cum laude from Northern Illinois University. Claire has a passion for chamber music and has attended prestigious summer festivals such as Credo Music Festival and Wintergreen Performing Arts Festival. She currently plays with the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra as an assistant principal violist and has soloed Cecil Forsyth's Viola Concerto as the winner of NIU's concerto competition. She has received specialized training in the Suzuki method and has taught in the CSA Program at NIU. Outside of her musical pursuits, Claire enjoys collecting plants and cherishes quality time with her husband and dog Rambo.
Register here to secure your spot!
Key Benefits
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√ Join weekly 45-minute classes with our dynamic Simply Group Class Instructors
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√ Come to learn and meet new people along the way! Countless life-long friendships have formed through the unique social setting of an group class
√ Guitar runs in four, 9-week leveled sessions from Sep - Jun; Suzuki Violin runs in three, 11-week leveled sessions from Sep - Jul
√ Opportunities to perform in our Winter and Spring Red Carpet Events (optional)
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√ Guitar: each 9-week level is $180. Suzuki Violin: each 11-week level is $220; all books are included in the annual $50 Registration Fee
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Group Guitar: $180.00 per level
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Group Suzuki Violin: $220.00 per level
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View our class policies
*All Simply Group Lessons meet at 13919 E. Illinois Hwy. in New Lenox.
FAQs
2023-24 Season: Group Guitar runs in four, 9-week leveled sessions. Group Suzuki Violin runs in three, 11-week leveled sessions.
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Tuition for each Group Guitar Level is $180 per student. Tuition for each Group Suzuki Violin Level is $220 per student. Our annual $50 registration fee covers the cost of any books used for class.
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Upon registration, we can assist you with any instrument rental needs as necessary.
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Your musical success—from start to finish—matters to us. You can start by contacting us for a free phone consultation. We’ll answer your questions, get to know you better, and help you find the instruction style that fits you best.
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If you already know what you’re looking for, go ahead and enroll directly from the schedule above. Your credit card will not be charged until you receive notification that your enrollment is confirmed.
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Enroll at any time! You don’t have to wait to begin lessons or to jump into a class. You can start when you’re ready and pause lessons if you need to. Visit our Customer Care page for more details about enrollment and payment information.
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