our story
We are thrilled to welcome you to Songbird School of Music, a vibrant hub for musical exploration and growth, catering to students of all ages and backgrounds. Founded by Justin and Joe, lifelong friends and accomplished musicians who have spent the past decade touring nationally with their band and have over 20 years of professional teaching experience. Our school is dedicated to empowering musical journeys and creating a welcoming haven for music enthusiasts and parents seeking a professional and nurturing environment for their children's musical education.
Our accomplished musicians guide students through tailored lessons with a commitment to excellence, cultivating a lifelong love for music. We believe in the transformative power of music to spark joy, improve cognitive skills, and promote self-expression.
Whether you're a new parent eager to introduce your child to music, a parent of school-age children looking for lessons, or an adult with a passion for learning an instrument, Songbird School of Music offers a variety of programs to fit your needs. Join us to start a rewarding and enriching musical journey.
Meet Our Instructors!
Justin Reckamp
guitar + bass + voice + songwriting + ukulele
- owner
Music has the power to heal, connect, and express what words can’t. I help students tap into the emotional side of music while building strong fundamentals and confidence. I hold a Bachelor’s in Jazz Performance from Columbia College Chicago, have taught professionally for over 20 years, and continue to perform locally and nationally with my band Mungion—bringing real-world experience and passion to every lesson.
JOE Re
piano
- owner
Joe has deep roots in Elmhurst, where he now proudly teaches. He holds a degree in Jazz Studies and Composition and has spent over 20 years helping students grow as musicians. Joe toured nationally for a decade with his original band, Mungion, and has also performed across the country with the Talking Heads tribute band This Must Be the Band. His teaching philosophy focuses on challenging each student while nurturing curiosity and creativity.
Grace Kraidich
voice + piano
Grace havs a lifelong love for music and a passion for teaching. With experience in vocal performance, ensemble, choral settings, and musical theatre, she helps students grow in musical skill and confidence on and off stage. Grace earned her BA and is currently a master’s student at Judson University, studying Community Music with a focus on teaching and vocal artistry. She believes music builds social and intellectual skills and that everyone deserves the chance to learn, grow, and express themselves creatively.
Catherine Clare
voice + piano + ukulele + guitar
Catherine Clare is Choir Director and Mariachi Teacher at Leman Middle School in West Chicago, directing choirs, mariachi ensembles, and the school musical. A first-generation Filipina-American, she advocates for inclusive, culturally responsive music education that meets students where they are. She believes music should be a welcoming space where students can explore, make mistakes, ask questions, and have fun while growing as musicians and individuals.
Vinny Guido
voice + piano + guitar
Vinny is completing his Bachelor of Music in Music Education at Elmhurst University. Specializing in guitar, classical guitar, and electric bass, he also teaches beginner piano, voice, and ukulele. Vincent is passionate about helping students develop their musical skills and fostering a deeper appreciation for music. He believes all students can become skilled musicians and focuses on music as a way to express themselves.
Ali MarTin
voice + piano
Ali believes everyone, no matter their ability, can make music and has a unique musical talent. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes progress over perfection, helping students explore music as an authentic expression of themselves. Ali is president of University Singers, Elmhurst’s flagship choir ensemble, and previously served as a section leader. Celebrating her 15th year of piano study, she brings experience and passion to every lesson.
Anthony Galang
woodwinds
Anthony is a passionate musician and future music educator from Bartlett, IL, pursuing a degree in Music Education and Jazz Studies at Elmhurst University. He has performed in numerous ensembles, including Jazz Band, Jazz Combo, Concert Band, Flute and Saxophone Choirs and Quartets, and Varsity Band. Anthony primarily teaches woodwinds, including saxophone, flute, and clarinet.
Anthony Galang
drums + percussion
Austin has over 20 years of drum experience, beginning with award-winning solo performances and leading his high school drumline. He studied under Ernie Adams in college and has performed with many bands throughout Chicago, including licensed work and viral drum covers. He shares his passion through private lessons and directing group performances, fostering a fun, creative, and flexible environment that blends solid technique with real-world playing.
Madison Miller
voice + piano
My name is Maddie, and I am a music education major at Elmhurst University. I believe music should be accessible and welcoming for everyone—whether you’ve played piano for years or never sung a note. I aim to create a studio where students feel comfortable exploring their abilities, being themselves, and making mistakes. Music is a beautiful, creative outlet that everyone should experience!
Grant Martin
bass + guitar + ukulele
I’m a bass and guitar instructor with seven years of teaching experience, and I’m passionate about helping students build real confidence through music. Whether someone is picking up an instrument for the first time or looking to sharpen their skills, I believe lessons should feel encouraging, engaging, and tailored to the individual. Let’s have some fun!
Grace Loris
voice + piano
My philosophy revolves around inspiring students to have a passion for music. I want each student to feel supported in a low-stress atmosphere where they learn and create music at a pace that works for them as an individual. I want to help my students gain confidence in themselves as musicians and as people, as well as feel proud of themselves as they go through their own musical journey.
Kayman Klaas
piano
Kayman Klaas is an independent music teacher, performer, and composer with a passion for teaching and building musical communities. An Elmhurst native, he earned his BMus from Columbia College Chicago in Music Composition and Production. His teaching style focuses each lesson to the individual student, helping them find their own voice and encouraging them to share it with the world!
Rebeca Flores
voice + piano
Rebeca is an aspiring music educator currently completing her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Elmhurst University. Rebeca has gained practical teaching experience through multiple practicum placements, including leading and observing general music and choral classes at Westchester Middle School, Elk Grove High School, and schools in the Bensenville District 2. She has also contributed to community music as a co-conductor for an all-ages choral rehearsals at the “Church of the Good Shepherd” in Waukegan, IL!
Olivia Koumoundouros
voice
Olivia is a dedicated and versatile music educator with professional training in both classical and contemporary styles, including pop, rock, and metal. She provides personalized instruction in vocal technique and piano, helping students build strong technical foundations while developing confidence and authentic self-expression.
In addition to teaching, Olivia is an active performing musician. She is the manager and lead vocalist of the progressive metalcore band Sacred May, performing at shows and festivals throughout Chicago and surrounding states. Her real-world performance experience allows her to bring practical insight into her lessons, including stage presence, collaboration, and expressive delivery.