About Lessons
My piano lessons have a different approach from traditional lessons. I believe learning music is like learning conversation in another language. It needs basic grammar, vocabulary, practice, and experience. My main goal is not only teaching piano skills, but also ear-training to capture the basic structure of melody and harmony.
The studio locates in Arlington Heights, IL 60005 area. Please contact me for more information.
Chieko Garling 224-764-2229 chiekogarling@hotmail.com
Main Cores of Lessons
1. One song from published piano music
All students are required to learn how to read piano music. This expands a lot of possibilities. Various styles are available. Adult students who can already read and want to learn jazz may skip this section.
2. One song learning by ear
After finishing the basic theory and ear training, students will learn songs by ear. This will help to develop good ears and larger repertoire capability.
3. One Exercise - Scale, Intervals, Cadence, Arpeggio, Inversion, Transposing
Most exercises are created by me to emphasize ear training, in addition to develop technical skills.
4. Repertoire
Repetition is the key for a good player. I always come back to the songs my students learned in the past. I make a repertoire list for each student. Sometimes I call one of the songs in lessons.
Lesson Fee
30 minute lesson -$100/a month (4 lessons)
45 minute lesson -$150/a month (4 lessons)- Recommended for intermediate level and higher.
You must have 4 lessons monthly to receive the rate. One time only and free-scheduling lessons are offered as $60/a one-hour lesson.
Piano for Practice
Some say console/upright piano is an extension of art, and electric piano is an extension of toy. Piano teachers generally say that, for practice, any cheep acoustic piano is better than any expensive electric keyboards. To me, it seems a student with an electric piano is less motivated to practice and slower to develop ears. In addition, there are many restriction on learning certain fields such as expression, finger training, and pedal usage. It is highly recommended to have an upright or at least console. Many affordable used pianos are listed on craigslist.com or other site daily. If you are planning to spend some money on an electric, I recommend to spend the same money on a console piano. I am very happy to help you to find a suitable piano. Please ask me if you need a good piano tuner or piano movers.
Performance Opportunities
Students are encouraged to participate the events by the Northwest Suburban Music Teacher's Association such as bi-annual recitals, piano ensemble, competitions, master classes, and grade exams.
Contact
The studio locates in Arlington Heights, IL 60005 area. Please contact me for more information.
Chieko Garling 224-764-2229 chiekogarling@hotmail.com
