Music Lessons in the Chicago Area

I am a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher currently residing in Chicago. I graduated from University of Illinois-Chicago with a Bachelors of Music in Trombone Performance. Although trombone is my main instrument, trumpet is my first and I practice each (in addition to guitar and piano) diligently every day. Students can expect the same care and dedication in each lesson :).

In lessons you can expect a healthy balance between technique and creativity. While fundamentals are paramount to success on any instrument, I want students to be able to shape their musical journey as much as possible. From the start I encourage a healthy dialogue of expectations for lessons, so as a student’s instrumental vocabulary expands, so does their understanding of their own musical voice.

As a professional artist I have written, performed and recorded with a multitude of ensembles, ranging from experimental indie rock to jazz to contemporary chamber music. I have composed and directed a full length ballet and am currently doing the same for my first production involving puppets! Every day I aim to push my boundaries as a musician and artist and hope to inspire that same drive in my students, whether it be in the arts or elsewhere.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you!

Upcoming Events

Click here to view my Event Calendar!

Contact Me

For more information about hiring me for lessons, performance or composition, please fill out the contact form below. Expect a reply within 24 hours. I look forward to working with you!!

    Read My Google Reviews

    Posted on Google Google
    Jennifer Perez profile picture
    Jennifer Perez
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    August is a talented, kind, and patient teacher. He provides a welcoming environment and lessons are tailored to your goals and skill level. His thoughtful approach makes each lesson both productive and enjoyable.
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    sara hayden profile picture
    sara hayden
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    August has truly been an excellent instructor. As an adult, I wasn’t confident in my ability to learn to play the piano. But August’s talent, professionalism and patience has helped me tremendously. I am so glad to have him as a teacher. More than worth the investment!
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    Melissa DeJesus profile picture
    Melissa DeJesus
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    August is a truly talented individual with years of experience. His zest for teaching and inspiring young musicians is evident with each lesson. He not only motivated my daughter to explore her own creativity but inspired me to pursue mine again. Boyne Music Lessons has been such a rich addition to the community and my family. Looking forward to seeing what is in store for the 2025 year!
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    Laura Wolff profile picture
    Laura Wolff
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    My daughter is 9 and loves her piano lessons!
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    Daniel Ferriss profile picture
    Daniel Ferriss
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    I am an adult piano student of August's and I have been going to lessons for about 3 months. Before lessons I had attempted to self-teach, and I am finding that with lessons I am progressing significantly faster. In addition to piano theory in lessons, August will drill into the music theory of the pieces we cover. Lessons are timely, the rules for rescheduling/cancelling lessons are fair, and the price is fair. There are performance/recital opportunities, which is valuable as well. I definitely suggest August as a teacher!
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    Connie Moreno profile picture
    Connie Moreno
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    August has been an amazing music teacher to both my boys! Extremely patient and dedicated to his lessons. I couldn’t be happier with my decision. My oldest has grown more confident with his guitar skills and my youngest just loves his piano. Highly recommend. Thank you!
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    Skye Winspur profile picture
    Skye Winspur
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    I recommend August very highly. He is an enthusiastic and musically well-rounded teacher!
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    Cindy San Miguel profile picture
    Cindy San Miguel
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    Mr. August has a way to connect with his students that is uniquely incredible. Since my son has started taking piano lessons with Mr. August, my son’s excitement to play has sky-rocketed. Mr. August not only teaches music skills but also thinks about how to build passion for learning and loving music. He is great with kids and super patient. I would highly recommend him as a music teacher to all!
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    John Thephasdin profile picture
    John Thephasdin
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    August is a fantastic piano teacher! He has been teaching my 10y/o son for four months now, coming to our house once/week for 30 mins. It’s been awesome to see my son excited about learning piano and music in general. August is professional, patient, and really understands where my son is at ability wise and is able to customize the lesson for him.
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    Amanda Cornelio profile picture
    Amanda Cornelio
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    August is an exceptional music teacher! He is very knowledgeable in music and super enthusiastic. He will take the time to know your music goals and help you grow. I definitely recommend taking lessons with him as he is also patient and flexible with your schedule.