Andrew Clinkman

Andrew Clinkman (he/they)has been teaching music in the Chicagoland area for over a decade and holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music with a concentration in jazz performance. Andrew completed his Music Together® training and apprenticeship with Merry Music Makers in late 2024.

Andrew has also received specialized training on several piano curricula, including Faber and Piano Safari, focusing on early childhood piano pedagogy. Andrew has lifelong experience as a performing musician, beginning their music journey early in life with cello lessons at age 3 and later pursuing guitar upon turning 8. Since relocating to Chicago after completing studies at the conservatory in 2013, Andrew has been an active member of the Chicago creative music community as a member of groups like Moontype, Spirits Having Fun, Marker, and many ad hoc improvised groupings.

Teaching guitar, piano, and ukulele, Andrew pursues a philosophy that prioritizes the importance of embracing the individuality of each musician and fostering a positive and healthy relationship with music. This often includes developing an understanding and enjoyment of harmony and music theory–delving under the hood of what makes a student’s favorite music tick in addition to developing facility and proficiency on their chosen instrument. Every student has a unique personality and something new to say, and provided with the right tools and a patient approach, they can learn to express that personality through music.