Education

Dan's passion for jazz music is obvious in his teachings, whether in a classroom setting, as a clinician, or as a private instructor. He fosters intelligence and creativity in students of all ages, helping them lay the groundwork for a successful practice with clear techniques and exercises that grow both practical and theoretical knowledge. His students return year after year to receive support and instruction as they see their abilities expand through their studies with Dan.

Elmhurst University

Theory class instructor, Independent study, Combo director, Ensemble director, Adult private lessons

Dan is an adjunct professor at Elmhurst University where he teaches jazz improvisation and theory in addition to directing the Jazz Lab Band and combo program. Shown is a video of the Elmhurst University Jazz Lab Band at the Elmhurst Jazz Festival playing Dan’s arrangement of Smack Dab In The Middle.

Private and Online Instruction

In 2020, when the world shut down, Dan was tasked with creating a virtual clinic for the Frank Mantooth Jazz Festival at New Trier High School. Having taught improvisation to high school students for many years, Dan decided to create a video to help young jazz students understand and practice ii V7 I language. Check out the final product below and his YouTube channel for additional practice videos. Dan also teaches private lessons online and in person at his home in Skokie, IL.

  • "Dan Nicholson is one of the kindest and most thoughtful people I have ever met, and his personality shines through his comprehensive mentorship of his students. His concrete methods for teaching abstract concepts in music allow students to learn and grow quickly and in remarkable ways."

    Mark Hiebert — Associate Band Director at Stevenson High School Source

  • “Dan was one of my first teachers in jazz, and was such a great teacher who made everything very easy to understand. He’s taught me everything from the most basic fundamentals of jazz to very advanced harmonic and rhythmic concepts. I could not recommend him enough.”

    Daisuke Kamiuchi — BM in Jazz Studies from Elmhurst University Class of 2025

  • “Dan’s instruction is very organized, comprehensive and custom-fit for each student. In my experience studying with him, I have learned many musical skills such as how to effectively improvise and create a captivating solo as well as personal skills that include how to interact with other musicians in the industry.”

    Tim Gorman — BM in Music Education from Elmhurst University Class of 2025

  • “Dan's profound impact on my growth as a musician stems from his exceptional ability to pinpoint my current skill level during a session, and then build a staircase of exercises to ensure my advancement. If I encounter a challenge, Dan is patient and celebrates every milestone as I master a new concept. Patience and encouragement are among his most remarkable qualities. I consistently leave our lessons energized and eager to return to the shed to practice the new ideas. Beyond being an insightful teacher and active listener, he's also a phenomenal player whose artistry and encouraging guidance continually inspire me to refine my sound and continue my musical journey. I set a goal to play at a jam session last year. Dan helped me not only prep for the jam, but also invited me to join him. I don't think I could have taken this giant step without Dan's support and lessons. I highly recommend Dan if you're serious about growing as a musician.”

    Andrew Ledet — Adult private student