Irwin Silbernik teaches Guitar, Piano, & Ukulele.

Irwin has a talent for connecting with his students, and tailors their lessons to meet each students’ diverse needs.

He has a true love for teaching. His compassionate and inspiring approach makes each student feel special, cared for, and successful.

Irwin majored in piano and instrumental music education at both DePaul University and the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana. He played Timpani with the De Paul University Symphony Orchestra, which regularly performed in Chicago’s Orchestra Hall.

Irwin received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Illinois in 1974, and his Master’s degree in Music Education a year later, in 1975.

While at the University of Illinois, Irwin studied piano with famed pianist Eugene List, and piano literature with Soulima Stravinsky (Igor Stravinsky’s son).

While still working on his Master’s degree, Irwin began teaching instrumental music in the Champaign/Urbana school systems.

After receiving his degrees, Irwin ran the music programs for a small town in western Illinois.

After teaching in public school systems, Irwin went to work at Karnes Music Company in Des Plaines, Illinois as a guitar and piano teacher.

Irwin founded the In The Pocket Band, which performed at many Chicago are venues, including the Chicago Blues Festival in Grant Park, Buddy Guys, Kingston Mines and more.

In 2014, Irwin founded the Silbernik Music Academy in Highland Park, IL, and is now using his educational and performance experience to teach students of all levels.