My daughter took piano for a couple years from a teacher near our house. She's a smart kid, but she didn't seem too inspired to practice. I didn't think she was getting that much better either. But a friend of mine told me that her son was going to a place in Skokie and really enjoyed it. I've heard him - he's actually pretty good. So I enrolled my daughter for piano lessons there - it's a small, but cozy setting not far from the Skokie Library. I could take out some books while she had her lessons. Anyway, I was impressed with the way the studio owner informed me about what to expect. He told me that my daughter would do well at piano as long as she, her teacher and I were on the "same page" about how she should practice and how often etc. I don't know much about playing music so I went to the class for student parents - it was free and very illuminating. They also gave my daughter many more materials than just songs - it's much more thorough and she's having fun.

My children attended two other music studios in the past - with varying degrees of luck. As I have a strong music background, I wanted theory and scales/chords etc. taught, as well as basic piano. But I didn't want my children traumatized by great pressures. It must be fun, but complete and balanced. They should be able to read music well, maybe improvise, and be able to play with grace and confidence. At Five Hands Piano Studio there is a casual, "family" atmosphere. Mr. C. (the owner) has young children of his own and is great at keeping things fun for my kids. There is a well-balanced curriculum and a computer lab with music video games. The proof, however, is in the recitals - very expressive performances. I decided to study music there as well. There is versatility in the offerings. I'm studying recording software and jazz, while my kids are getting a good classical background. The bonus is the mentor relationship Mr. C. has w/my kids. Big bang for the buck