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Mr. Semanic currently teaches private trumpet lessons at Naperville North HS, Schaumburg HS, Conant HS, and in his home studio in Naperville. He has taught private trumpet lessons at the University of Tennessee, University of Chicago, North Central College, Benedictine University as well as trumpet lessons and master classes at numerous high schools.

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Comments From Past Students

 

I began studying trumpet with Paul Semanic as a high school student—a critical time for music education. Under his instruction, my musicianship and technical aptitude on the trumpet increased dramatically. Paul developed a unique program based on my musical needs and ability allowing me to focus on the areas of my playing that needed the most attention. As a result of his tutelage and direction, I was accepted to the university of my choice on scholarship.   Paul brings to every lesson a commitment and dedication to advancing the growth of his students. You will walk out of each lesson a better musician.

 

Sameed Afghani

previously: Business Analyst and Assistant to the Vice President for Operations, Chicago Symphony Orchestra

currently: General Manager, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Semanic for several years while I was in high school. I met him at a summer camp, and was so impressed by his teaching ability – seeing improvement in just a few short days – that I decided to take private lessons with him. Although I lived in Naperville, I made the weekly trek all the way to Schaumburg to continue my studies. I began in the lowest band at Neuqua, but in just one academic year, Mr. Semanic helped me progress to such an extent that I was placed into the Wind Symphony for my sophomore year. The following summer, I auditioned for and was accepted into the Protégé Philharmonic in Chicago, and Mr. Semanic continued to help me improve all aspects of my playing, from my technical ability to musical expression. His dedication to his students is clearly evident – I still remember practicing Tai Chi together in his basement to help me develop more deep and focused breathing. Under his instruction, I continued to progress, and was placed in Wind Ensemble my junior year, after only starting to play in 7th grade. Mr. Semanic coached me not only with classical playing – which helped me to earn principal chair in the Symphony Orchestra and first chair in multiple musical productions – but he also was able to help me improve my jazz playing, and with minimal experience I was able to earn lead trumpet in the Jazz Orchestra. With his continued support, I was accepted into the prestigious School of Music at DePaul University, one of only three students to be accepted that year, with a $10,500 yearly scholarship for my musical ability. Mr. Semanic is able to bring the best out of his students by encouraging learning in a stress-free environment – lessons with him were focused and productive, while still remaining lighthearted and enjoyable. They were a time I looked forward to week after week, and I loved seeing myself grow as a trumpet player as I continued to learn from him. I never would have been able to become the musician I am today without his guidance.

-  Brynne