My Teaching Philosophy
A passionate educator, Jimmy Farace serves on faculty at the Merit School of Music Alice S. Pfaelzer Conservatory - Chicago's premier conservatory for pre-collegiate musicians. Additionally, Farace serves as woodwind instructor at Riverside Brookfield High School and maintains an impressive private woodwind studio of high-achieving students throughout the Chicagoland area.
Farace’s conceptualization of student learning is based on Carol Dweck’s Growth Mindset Theory as detailed in her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Farace’s students leave their lessons having obtained the following three things: the knowledge of the historical impact and modern practices of music; the skills to perform written and improvised music in a plethora of styles; and a growth mindset which prioritizes work ethic.
Testimonials
"Our son really looks forward to his lesson with Jimmy each week. Jimmy both encourages and challenges him to be a better musician. He prepared our son so well for his ILMEA District IX Jazz Band Audition. He landed the first Alto part in the top Jazz band!"
— Sara (parent)
"Jimmy adapts really well. Our high school musician plays multiple instruments at different skill levels and like most kids is not always well prepared for a lesson. Jimmy always has a positive and encouraging approach while also challenging our musician to grow."
— Eric (parent)
"I’ve had the privilege of studying under Jimmy since February of 2022 while preparing for college auditions. He quickly helped me realize my potential, both through playing my saxophone as well as in my general musicality. Jimmy has the ability to provide insightful feedback as well as applicable advice and guidance. His words are extremely affirmative and learning under him has always been fun, engaging, and inspiring. I truly believe that taking private lessons with Jimmy for the past year have truly helped me grow as a musician and student. His support is unwavering, and I will continue to study under him as I complete my music education degree."
— Kyra (student)
“I had the chance to start learning the saxophone with Jimmy as my teacher. All my lessons were amazing. Jimmy's tips were great. He was also very patient and I was able to quickly improve and enjoy playing!"
— Alice (Student)