Teresa Reilly

Clarinet

Profile Picture

Qualifications

  • Master of Music, Northwestern University
  • Bachelor of Science in Music, DePaul University

Rate

$100/hr (Scholarships for underserved st

Background & Experience

An avid performer and teacher. Performs regularly with the Chicago Symphony as part of the clarinet section. Has 15+ years of experience teaching private lessons. Testimonials from current students and recent graduates:

"Teresa is a very attentive and supportive teacher. She placed a strong emphasis on technical skill development early on so that I could successfully prepare all kinds of repertoire. Under her tutelage, I advanced through the ranks of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, won prizes at major solo and chamber music competitions, and successfully gained admission to multiple top music schools and conservatories. If you are looking to improve at your instrument and chase new opportunities, Teresa is a great mentor to have by your side.”
-Katia Waxman, Oberlin Conservatory Class of 2021

“When I started working with Teresa, I had 2 goals: to grow as a soloist, and adapt my skills to an orchestral environment. Within 6 months of joining her studio, I successfully auditioned into Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra's Concert Orchestra. Over the next four years, her strategic and wholistic teaching style, exploration of various techniques, and vision of music not as notes on paper, but rather as an experience and story, lead me to a greater appreciation of the vastness of the classical and instrumental music worlds. Four years later, her pedagogy prepared me for a successful audition into Emory University's Orchestra and Wind Ensemble as I transitioned to college. I still use words of wisdom and practice tips she conveyed during my time working with her today, as I continue to expand my scope as a musician.”
-Lucy Mangalapali, Emory University class of 2022

“Mrs. Reilly has been an incredible clarinet teacher for me over the past two years. She's offered me so many resources for learning, and I've grown so much in all facets of my clarinet-playing under her tutelage! With her guidance, I was able to move up orchestras in CYSO, which was one of my foremost goals.”
-Evan Liu, Naperville Central High School Class of 2022
“When I began taking clarinet lessons with Teresa, it had been over 20 years since I had played the instrument. Luckily, Teresa was (and still is) unfailingly patient, friendly, and warm. She is an extremely talented musician and clarinetist with very effective teaching methods. Based on my previous background, she was able to adjust our lessons to cover the basics, but also keep “stretching me” for real improvement. We work on technique, but also musicality, theory, effective practicing, and building repertoire. Thanks to Teresa’s positive and encouraging teaching style, lessons are always enjoyable and I have made significant progress. I highly recommend Teresa for anyone wanting to significantly improve their clarinet playing and musicianship.”
-Alan Reed, Executive Director of Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network


“Teresa Marie Reilly is a superb teacher. Through vivid metaphor and demonstration, she has been able initially to transform my embouchure, which is both invisible to the eye and the key to better playing. Subsequently, her instruction on phrasing, dynamics and rubato have been invaluable. I cannot recommend her highly enough.”
-Tim Wright, Professor Emeritus, Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture

“Teresa Reilly is an example of a great, caring music teacher. She is continually learning new approaches to teaching, exploring old repertoire, and looking for new repertoire. By doing this my growth and interest has grown tremendously. Also her access to a wealth of other clarinet resources can’t be beat. She has a true fun commitment to excellence, both for herself and for her students. In today’s world having a flexible teacher with your growth yet still concerned with getting the work done is crucial. Her ability to work with students in person and online is something to not take for granted. Learning virtually is very necessary in these times and understanding how to teach and having the patience to do so is something many teaching musician do not have. It is also great to have a teacher that tailors her approach with the students personality and musical level. If your looking for some to study with I recommend starting here!”
-Richard D. Johnson, Ravinia Jazz educator and Peabody Conservatory Jazz Faculty