Aaron has over 25 years of teaching experience from beginning to advanced students, and from a wide range of ages, racial and/or socio-economic backgrounds. Whether in the classroom coaching/directing ensembles of various sizes, teaching music theory, or in direct, private instruction, his experience and comfortable report with students produces successful, audible results.
Aaron McEvers currently teaches music theory, jazz theory, composing and coaches jazz ensembles at The Merit School of Music in Chicago. He also teaches saxophone at his home studio and at New Trier High School.
Testimonials from Employers / Directors:
“Aaron McEvers teaches private saxophone lessons at New Trier High School, where I have seen his excellent work on display for many years. Aaron’s approach honors the unique musical personality and goals of each student, giving them agency in their development. He also values fundamentals, beginning with sound, and brings his own deep understanding of sound production and technique into the lesson environment. Results speak for themselves, and Aaron’s students are thriving, thanks in large part to his thoughtful and skilled approach. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have Aaron as a member of our music department.” -Nic Meyer, Director of Jazz Ensembles, New Trier H.S.
“Aaron has worked with my students for several years now and the progress I’ve seen is nothing short of amazing.” -Brad O’Brien, Band Director, Lane Tech H.S.
“Students who study with Aaron play with solid fundamentals, a great sound, and are leaders in my band. Aaron has high musical expectations and a great rapport with our students.” -Brian Jacobi, Curriculum Specialist for Instrumental Music, Park Ridge Dist. 64
“I have worked with Aaron for several years and have been extremely impressed with his professionalism as well as his rapport with students. He is an outstanding musician and helps students achieve their best. The improvements in his students’ playing is remarkable and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to enhance their skills.”
-Eric Bachmann, Band Director, Emerson Junior High
Testimonials from Students:
“Aaron has not only made me a significantly better saxophonist, putting me on the path to musical success, but has made me a better jazz musician and person as a whole. His wisdom, knowledge, and expertise about jazz is infectious in every lesson. Every question I ask he’s always got an answer, every mistake I make he’s got a solution, and every time I get confused he helps me understand. The impact he has had on me cannot be overstated. Truly a world class musician, educator, and person.”
-Duke B.
“Aaron is the one teacher I can point to as singlehandedly turning me into a saxophonist. He is an amazingly skilled instructor with a broad range of knowledge and ability concerning all aspects of both classical and jazz saxophone. The value you get from studying with him can’t be overstated.”
-Ben L.
“I took many years of wonderful private flute lessons with Mr. McEvers. He took me from being a struggling intermediate student to being the flute section leader for my high school’s most advanced band. I am very grateful for all that he taught me in terms of tone, rhythm, technique, and exposure to repertoire. With his guidance, I am now intending on auditioning for my college’s orchestra next year, which would never have been possible without him. Thank you, Mr. McEvers!” - Sydney C.
“Aaron has introduced an effective method to improve my improvisation. He has given me material to work with on a daily basis, and he’s also a very good listener.” -Mitchel P.
“I accredit the vast majority of my growth as a young jazz saxophonist to my private lessons teacher Aaron McEvers. Studying with him for the last couple of years motivated me to practice regularly, and going into college as jazz major, I continue to learn something new from him every week. Gives very useful and detailed feedback about every aspect of my playing and technique.” -Taraz T.
“When I first went to Mr. McEvers, I was struggling with my improvisation and my sound. As soon as lessons started, my development grew exponentially… His love and passion for the music is obvious as soon as you enter a lesson”
-Isaac C.
“He's encouraging, demanding, strict, and fun. He's patient. He corrects my mistakes and rewards my progress. He's the best!” -Walter H.
“From intonation to improvisation, Aaron does a great job of instruction and coaching. I like the spirit he brings to the lessons and the music.”
-Julian D.