Michael A. Wlodek
B.A. Music
Educator - Session Musician - Piano Reprise Producer
Located at 5824 N Northwest Highway, Chicago, IL
Near Jefferson Park Blue Line and Norwood Park Metra
Services
Drum Lessons (All levels)
Half hour (all levels) - $35
Beginner (full hour) - $65
Intermediate (full hour) - $75
Advanced (full hour) - $90
Group Lessons (full hour) - $65, plus $25 for each additional student
Music theory, songwriting, and composition lessons
Half hour - $35
Full hour - $65
Piano lessons (Beginner level)
Half hour - $35
Full hour - $65
Session Work - Contact for quote
Fill-in Work - Contact for quote
Piano and Lo-fi Reprises -
Contact for quote
About Me
My name is Michael Wlodek. I am a graduate of Columbia College Chicago, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Music, with a concentration in drum set percussion.
At the age of seven, my musical journey began. I learned my first song from my brother and in that moment I fell in love with how playing music felt, as well as the way it made other people feel. I then decided to try out drumming at my soon to be drum instructor's house. Instantaneously, he saw the passion I had for the craft.
Performing for over 10 years, I have had experience playing in numerous bands across many genres ranging from rock, metal, funk, and jazz. In addition to this, I have had regional touring experience over the past couple of years.
Further on in my musical journey, I learned audio engineering at Waysound Recording Studio, creating a love for audio and a desire to continue doing work in the field. Being involved in the recording process, I saw how magical it was when the audio engineer was able to bring the client’s vision to life. Seeing a client’s excitement when their music became tangible was such an amazing process that I knew I wanted to be a part of.
Incredible mentors were pivotal for my own growth and success. Imparting a wealth of knowledge, I want to pass on what I know to students whose goal is to find a love for music, and even get to a point where they can showcase that love to others in their own musical endeavors.
My goal is to have a space where I can help musical journeys progress, and use the tools I have to help other musicians. I believe music is a profound art form, and my dream is to assist in bringing out that art in other people and making their visions come to life.
Mission Statement
Quinn Caltrider
“I had a lot of fun taking lessons with Michael, he was very open minded about music and led me to understand things about the drums that I had not realized previously. On top of that, he is a joy to speak with and one of the kindest people on this earth that plays drums. Technically, I am still in awe at his playing and he provided the small stepping stones to build the path for a future of better playing!”
Taryn Moore
“My son, who is very shy and reserved, received drum lessons from Michael. He was able to break my son out of his shell a bit and was very patient and organized in his lessons. I would highly recommend!”
Justin LeBreck (Owner of Waysound Recording Studio)
“I’ve been recording drums with Michael for a long time, and he’s consistently one of the easiest and most reliable people to work with. His strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to using quality gear always stands out. On top of being a skilled drummer, he brings a positive attitude to every session. I always look forward to working with him.”
Matt Bonistalli
“Michael was prepared, he was a fast learner, and played with an energy that matched the songs perfectly. Not only is he a great studio drummer, he is easy to get along with, and has a great work ethic that will make anyone want to collab with him.”
The Pretender by Foo Fighters (2022)
No. 3 by Benny Greb (2023)
Live drum solo in Saying Goodbye by The Fifth Star Band (2025)
Hello, World!
Lesson Planning
I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching. Every student is unique in their abilities and their goals, and for this reason, I offer a free consultation prior to the first lesson so I can effectively plan and tailor accordingly. This can be done over call or text at 1-847-687-5041, email at michaelwlodekmusicgmail.com, or over a video call via Zoom.
Before the lesson, I will write down warm-ups and exercises that will be helpful for the student. After the lesson, I will write down everything we worked on and send a PDF or PNG transcription so that the student will have the resources needed to practice what they learned.
