Andrew Clinkman (he/they) has been teaching music in the Chicagoland area for over a decade and holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music with a concentration in jazz performance. Andrew has also received specialized training on several piano curricula including Faber and Piano Safari with a focus on early childhood piano pedagogy. Andrew has lifelong experience as a performing musician, beginning their own music journey early in life with cello lessons at age 3 and later pursuing guitar upon turning 8 years old. Since relocating to Chicago after completing studies at the conservatory in 2013, Andrew has been an active member of the Chicago creative music community as a member of groups like Moontype, Spirits Having Fun, Marker and many ad hoc improvised groupings.

Teaching guitar, piano, and ukulele, Andrew pursues a philosophy that prioritizes the importance of embracing the individuality of each musician and fostering a positive and healthy relationship with music. This often includes developing an understanding and enjoyment of harmony and music theory–delving under the hood of what makes a student’s favorite music tick in addition to developing facility and proficiency on their chosen instrument. Every student has a unique personality and something new to say, and provided with the right tools and a patient approach, they can learn to express that personality through music. Andrew is thrilled to be a member of the Lyriq Music School team!