Jessica Lee Studio specializes in helping students of all ages and skill levels develop their voices and instrumental skills. During our 45-minute voice lessons, we focus on fundamental vocal techniques like breath support, posture, and resonance, opening up your voice and bringing out your natural sound. I also teach students to play piano, viola, or acoustic guitar. I teach applied music theory, ear training and sight reading, as well as techniques to expand repertoire and polish pieces.
Depending on your goals, you can choose whether to work on classical, musical theater, or popular music. Developing healthy vocal habits is an ongoing process, so I advise regular lessons for best results.
I teach at a pace suited to the student and provide music instruction that’s high quality but relaxed. The instruction is geared toward the student's learning style, personality and goals. Students enjoy lessons while becoming proficient at their instruments.
My teaching method focuses on the individual needs and abilities of each student. This concentrated attention helps you make progress each week.
For younger students, I encourage parents to attend the last few minutes of each lesson to listen to the musical progress made during the lesson, and review with the teacher what to practice during the following week. I focus on the student first, acting as a guide and helping you become a better musician. I believe that this process has a profound, positive impact on you, those around you, and the larger community. I teach students of all ages and ability levels at my home studio in northeast Naperville.
Lessons are personalized and productive; working together we will help you achieve your potential!
“Voice lessons are very professional and my daughter not only enjoys them but learns a lot! Jessica is positive and cheerful and generous with her praise and time!” Lauri C.
"She really loves the piano you are doing with her, as well as the singing. She feels really comfortable with you!" Mia N.
"Thank you Jessica for everything you have done for [my son]. You have done a great job with him." Susan K.
"Thank you for all you do! It is definitely helping them." Yessenia G.
"Thank you so much for all your support." Bindu Y.
Music has always been my first love, even though it wasn't my first career. Although I've spent my life in the world of music, my first career was as a writer. A turning point came after two years of writing for the Chicago Tribune and expanding my skills as a singer and violist, singing with choirs, including the Michael Teolis Singers, and playing in orchestras like the DuPage Symphony. After a family friend suggested cantorial work, I began apprenticing with a cantor, and I landed my first position as a soloist for the High Holidays. I gradually started to realize that I wanted to share my musical knowledge one-on-one with students.
I knew that returning to school as an adult would be challenging, but that the dream of opening my own music studio was worth it. I was already singing with the Elmhurst Choral Union, and the college associated with the group seemed a natural choice to pursue a music degree. So, even though I already had a Master's degree in journalism, I devoted three years to earning a degree in music at Elmhurst University. I also taught voice, viola, guitar and piano at a local music store, and founded and directed a youth chorus.
Now, in addition to teaching these instruments at Jessica Lee Studio, I regularly lead Shabbat and Jewish High Holiday services and act as Choral Director and Sunday School Principal for a synagogue in Joliet, IL.
Recently, Jessica Tobacman recorded several vocal standards at Imagineering Studios, Inc., with her mother, Dr. Joanne Tobacman, on piano. We're excited to share some of the tracks here!
"You'll Never Walk Alone" from the musical Carousel with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and music by Richard Rodgers (1945): This uplifting song has been interpreted by many. My mother and I recorded it together recently and listening to it is one way to lift your spirits during this difficult time.
"Moon River" from the film Breakfast at Tiffany's with words by Johnny Mercer and music by Henry Mancini (1961): My mother and I began playing and singing this together after I graduated from college and moved back home to the Midwest. This song is one of my favorites from the film.