Music lessons in Naperville for voice, piano, viola & guitar
 
We work together to achieve your potential
 

COVID-19 Update:

For your safety and ours, the studio is offering online lessons for new and returning students. Please contact us for further information.

Voice Lessons

Jessica Lee Studio specializes in helping students of all ages and skill levels develop their voices. I focus on fundamental vocal techniques like breath support, posture, and resonance, opening up your voice and bringing out your natural sound.

I believe anyone can learn to sing. 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 weekly lessons for best results.

My teaching method focuses on the individual needs and abilities of each student. This concentrated attention helps you make progress each week. Lessons are personalized and productive; working together we will reach our goals!

“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.

Keys to success

  • Find the most workable time to make music, and practice at least 15 minutes each day
  • Mentally rehearse playing or singing at your best
  • Listen to music daily
  • Attend live performances as often as possible
  • Read about performing
  • Practice performing
  • Keep music fun by working with your teacher to select music you like
  • Remind yourself that music lessons are a choice that helps your brain grow and that offers a respite from the stresses of daily life

Instrumental Lessons

In addition to offering voice lessons, I also teach students to play piano, viola, and acoustic guitar. I teach applied music theory and sight reading, as well as techniques to expand repertoire and polish pieces. 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.

“I believe the work you do with the children is amazing.” Alison G.

About


A note from the owner & teacher, Jessica Lee Tobacman

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 College. 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 lead yearly Jewish High Holiday services and perform as a soloist.


Features & Benefits

Feature: 1-on-1 instruction

Benefit: Maximum focus and attention

Feature: Weekly lessons

Benefit: Teaches musical skills in a timely, fun fashion

Feature: 30- or 60-minute lessons, depending on age and focus

Benefit: Helps you enjoy and, simultaneously, progress on your instrument

Feature: Family members are welcome to observe lessons

Benefit: Music as a way for the whole family to deal with stress and appreciate life

Feature: Teaches at a pace suited to the student

Benefit: Music instruction that's high quality but relaxed

Feature: Instruction geared toward student's learning style, personality and goals

Benefit: Students enjoy lessons while becoming proficient at their instruments

Recordings

Recently, our owner, Jessica L. 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.

"Summertime" from the opera Porgy & Bess, with music and lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin, DuBose and Dorothy Heyward (1935): This song is an old family favorite. My paternal grandparents saw Porgy and Bess on Broadway during their honeymoon. Later, my grandfather sang "Summertime" to his three children at night; my father turned this into a tradition as he sang the piece to my brothers and me, and I continue it with my child.

"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.

Blog

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Contact Information

I'd love to hear from you! Please contact me to set up a consultation at my home studio in northeast Naperville or via FaceTime.