Our
Band & Orchestra
Instructors
Fiddle/ Violin
Al Joseph
Al is a highly accomplished and amicable musician, with over five decades of expertise in playing and teaching violin and fiddle. With a keen ear for melody and a passion for teaching, Al has been imparting his knowledge and skills to students at Melody Mart for many years.
Al's mastery of both classical violin and country fiddle has earned him a reputation as a versatile and adaptable instructor. He tailors his lessons to each student's goals and aspirations, whether they want to become virtuosos in the classical genre or master the lively and upbeat style of country fiddling.
Al's approachable demeanor and extensive teaching experience make him an ideal mentor for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are just starting out or seeking to refine your technique, Al's patient guidance and expert instruction will help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential as a violinist or fiddle player.
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Instruction offered on Mondays & Tuesdays
Violin/Beginning Viola
Anokyewaa Oppong
Anokyewaa Oppong Wadie is a violinist with an impressive background of almost 12 years in the field. Her passion for classical violin started at the age of nine, after being inspired by the exceptional musician Regina Carter. From then on, Anokyewaa has devoted her time and energy to honing her skills and perfecting her craft. She has trained with some of the best violinists in the Midwest and Chicago area, learning from accomplished musicians.
Anokyewaa's commitment to her craft is evident in her academic achievements. She graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a degree in violin performance. Anokyewaa's education and training have helped her to develop a unique and dynamic approach to teaching violin. Her family background in education has also influenced her teaching style. She emphasizes care, consistency, and creating a positive and non-judgmental learning environment that fosters growth and development.
As a passionate and dedicated violinist and educator, Anokyewaa aims to inspire and guide her students to achieve their full potential. Whether a beginner or an advanced student, Anokyewaa's lessons are tailored to meet each student's unique needs and goals. With her expertise and experience, Anokyewaa is a violinist and teacher who truly embodies the artistry and beauty of classical violin.
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Instruction offered on Tuesdays & Fridays
Beginning Cello/ Violin
DK Bass
DK (also known as Dakari) is a multi-instrumentalist. He is degreed with over 15 years of experience playing and teaching a variety of instruments. As a versatile educator, he specializes in teaching woodwinds, brass, and beginning strings. His skills range from performing, composing/arranging, to music theory and teaching.
In addition to his musical prowess, DK also serves as the Band and Orchestra sales liaison at their store, making them the go-to expert for all your musical needs. Whether you're looking for advice on selecting the perfect instrument or need assistance with your random musical inquiries, DK has got you covered.
As a dedicated educator, DK offers both private instruction and group classes to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a beginner just starting out on your musical journey or an advanced player looking to refine your technique, DK has the experience and expertise to help you achieve your goals.
With a commitment to excellence in all aspects of music, DK is passionate about helping their students reach their full potential and discover the joy of creating and performing music.
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Instruction offered Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Saturdays
Ensemble Director
Band & Orchestra Liaison
Upright/Double Bass
Jordan Foster
Jordan Foster is a highly skilled musician and instructor at Melody Mart, teaching electric and upright bass to students of all levels. With over 15 years of experience playing and gigging, Jordan brings a wealth of knowledge to his teaching. In addition to his teaching duties, he is also responsible for managing the repair business at the store. If you have any questions about instrument repairs or adjustments, Jordan is the person to talk to. His expertise and attention to detail ensure that all instruments are handled with care and precision. With Jordan at the helm, you can rest assured that your instrument is in good hands.
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Instruction offered Thursdays & Saturdays
Adult Jam Band Coordinator & Coach
Repair Department Manager
Flute & Theory
Esperanza Salgado
Esperanza is a versatile and accomplished flutist with 14 years of experience performing in various ensembles throughout Chicago and the Chicagoland area. Her extensive experience includes playing with orchestras, wind ensembles, Mariachi bands, and chamber groups. Esperanza has also been teaching flute and piccolo for nine years, working with students across different music organizations in Chicago before joining Melody Mart.
Esperanza's journey as a flutist began at Bremen High School, where she discovered her passion for music. She then pursued her B.A. in Music at the University of Illinois at Chicago, specializing in Flute Performance and Musicology. Currently, she is continuing her graduate studies in music.
As a teacher, Esperanza adopts a holistic approach to teaching flute. Drawing on her academic background, she incorporates historical context, form and analysis, ear training, and theory into her lessons alongside instrumental techniques. She aims to provide her students with a well-rounded music education that enables them to develop their skills and deepen their appreciation of music. In her free time, Esperanza creates a music resource blog aimed at supporting nervous musicians. She also composes and records her own music, demonstrating her creativity and commitment to the art of music.
Instruction offered Mondays
Clarinet/Saxophone
Madeline Gloss
Madeline Gloss has been playing clarinet and saxophone since 1951. She attended Ohio State University from 1959 to 1964 where she played in the concert band, Buckeye band, and orchestra and earned her B.S. in Music Education. In 1964, she began her career as a Band Director in Warren, Michigan, Steger, Illinois, and Matteson, Illinois, where she taught for over three decades until 1994.
Her extensive experience as a Band Director has given her a wealth of knowledge that is invaluable to any student. Since 1995, Madeline has been teaching clarinet and saxophone privately at Melody Mart. Her passion for music and teaching has enabled her to develop a teaching style that is both engaging and effective.
Madeline's approach to teaching is founded on her belief that every student has the potential to excel. Her commitment to her students and passion for music education make her a valuable asset to the Melody Mart community. Her expertise in clarinet and saxophone, coupled with her experience as a Band Director and her own musical background, give her a unique perspective that she shares with her students.
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Instruction offered Thursdays & Saturdays
Flute/Trombone/Beginning Band
Dakari Bass
DK (also known as Dakari) is a multi-instrumentalist. He is degreed with over 15 years of experience playing and teaching a variety of instruments. As a versatile educator, he specializes in teaching woodwinds, brass, and beginning strings. His skills range from performing, composing/arranging, to music theory and teaching.
In addition to his musical prowess, DK also serves as the Band and Orchestra sales liaison at their store, making them the go-to expert for all your musical needs. Whether you're looking for advice on selecting the perfect instrument or need assistance with your random musical inquiries, DK has got you covered.
As a dedicated educator, DK offers both private instruction and group classes to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a beginner just starting out on your musical journey or an advanced player looking to refine your technique, DK has the experience and expertise to help you achieve your goals.
With a commitment to excellence in all aspects of music, DK is passionate about helping their students reach their full potential and discover the joy of creating and performing music.
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Instruction offered Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Saturdays
Ensemble Director
Band & Orchestra Liaison
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All Brass/Beginning Band
Gary Weisenberger
Gary has been a dedicated music educator for over a decade. Since 2009, he has been teaching band in south suburban public schools, sharing his passion for music with countless students. In 2017, Gary joined the talented team at Melody Mart, where he continues to inspire and guide young musicians to reach their full potential.
Gary earned his Bachelor of Music Education from Illinois Wesleyan University, where he had the privilege of studying under the direction of many fine educators. He is well-versed in a wide range of musical instruments and ensemble types, including Concert Band, Jazz Band, Jazz Combo, Chamber Ensembles, Marching Band/Drum and Bugle Corps, Pep Band, and Pit Orchestra.
As a strong advocate for the arts as an essential part of any school curriculum, Gary is always excited to take on new students and help them discover the joy of music. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, Gary's expertise and enthusiasm will inspire you to reach your musical goals. Join him at Melody Mart and become a part of a vibrant and supportive musical community.
Instruction offered Wednesdays & Thursdays
Tuba / All Beginning Brasswinds
Hector Lara
Hector Lara is a dedicated and passionate musician who has been playing the Tuba and Euphonium for over 10 years. He currently performs with the Sounds of Illinois Brass Ensemble, where he showcases his musical talents as a member of this esteemed group. Additionally, he serves as the Band Director at The Illinois School in Park Forest, IL for several years, where he has imparted his knowledge and experience to countless students.
Hector's interest in music began at an early age, and he pursued his passion by studying Music Education at Northern Illinois University. During his time there, he honed his skills under the tutelage of renowned tuba players Charles Schuchat and Scott Tegge. This experience helped him develop a deep understanding of the intricacies of brass instruments and music in general, which he now imparts to his students.
As a band director, Hector has gained extensive experience in various band instruments and ensemble types, including Concert Band, Jazz Band, Jazz Combo, Chamber Ensembles, Marching Band/Drum and Bugle Corps, Pep Band, and Pit Orchestra. He strongly believes in the importance of arts education and is always excited to take on new students.
Hector is a fluent Spanish speaker, which has enabled him to connect with Spanish-speaking students and families in the community. He is dedicated to helping students develop their musical abilities and achieve their full potential. If you are looking for an experienced and passionate music teacher, Hector Lara is a great choice.
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Instruction offered Wednesdays & Thursdays