Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.
How much are piano lessons?
Piano lessons cost $40 to $80 per hour, depending on the location, their experience level, and session length. A piano lesson package costs $180 to $350 for five 1-hour lessons. Children's piano lessons and online lessons often cost less than average.
Piano lessons are available for all ages in most cities in the country. Music instructors teach:
Music theory
Sight-reading
Improvisation
How to improve playing or technique
At what age should you start piano lessons?
The best age to start piano lessons is 5 to 9 years, though learning how to play the piano doesn't have an age limit. Playing the piano strengthens fine motor skills, increases flexibility, and improves your memory no matter how old you are.
Are piano lessons worth it?
Piano lessons are worth the money and effort invested over time. Playing an instrument can be beneficial for mental health, and cognitive strength. For smaller budgets, book just a few lessons to get the basics down and continue on your own.
How long are piano lessons?
Piano lessons for beginners or children are typically 30 to 45 minutes per session. Intermediate or advanced lessons are 45 to 60+ minutes per session. Most people have 1 to 2 lessons per week.
Can you learn to play piano online?
Yes, you can learn to play piano online through a webcam or virtual tutorials. Search our list of online piano teacher near you to find an instructor. Online piano lessons are often more convenient than in-person lessons and cost 20% less on average.
How do I select a piano teacher?
Start by searching our list of piano teachers, then:
Get at least three free estimates to compare.
Read reviews on Lessons and Google if possible.
Ask for references from current or recent students.
Make sure they are kind and personable, especially when with children.
Get a written estimate and schedule before the first lesson.
Avoid making a large payment up front. Follow a payment plan instead.
After asking questions and browsing reviews, hire the best piano instructor in your area.
What questions should I ask piano instructors?
When hiring piano teachers near you, ask the following questions:
How long have you been teaching piano?
Do you have a degree in music?
What age do you typically teach?
What genre of piano do you specialize in?
Will you give me a contract or payment arrangement in writing?
Will you allow me to choose some or all of the songs we practice?
Reviews for Downers Grove piano teachers
Recent success stories from people in the Downers Grove area.
Julian H.
I have known Gerald Rizzer for many years. He has a very easy going approach to teaching but on the other hand is extremely good at helping the student improve his or her performances and musical capabilities. He is especially interested in the structure of the pieces the student is working on and can improve interpretations by focusing on that structure.
He is the leader of the well known Chicago Ensemble and his abilities as a professional performing musician are beyond reproach. I highly recommend him.
The Chicago Ensemble
Zuzana S.
Elaine Jones
Mary N.
I’ve been taking piano lessons with John for about a year, returning to the instrument after more than 50 years away. From the start, John has been professional, patient, and highly skilled. He is a stickler for technical correctness, which I truly appreciate, as it’s helping me build a solid foundation and improve steadily. Even though I’m not aiming to be a concert pianist, John treats me with the same respect and commitment he would give any serious student.
He’s always on time, provides clear and constructive feedback, and helps me understand exactly what to focus on during my own practice. The pace of the lessons feels just right, and his expectations are both realistic and motivating. I’ve learned so much under his guidance and would highly recommend him to anyone—whether you’re a beginner or returning to the piano after many years.
John O'Keefe Music
Fred M.
The details of the lessons progression.
The breakdown of segments.
Ease of communication with instructor.
Audio Art Productions
Aroba M.
Frank has been a tremendous help through my advancements in piano technique and interpretation. His application of Italian bel-canto principles, as well as his natural exercises of the hands and wrists, has broadened my technique in indescribable ways. Just by watching his hands play the keyboard, I can apply his principles to create an incredible interpretation from a technical and interpretive standpoint.
Frank Forliano Piano Studio
Suzanne H.
Cynthia is very passionate about music and eager to share her knowledge. I did not start taking piano lessons until I was an adult and Cynthia has been patient while making it challenging for me.
Russakoff Music Studio
Betty B.
She is very patience and understanding
Changing someone's life, one note at a time.
Zexin
She’s very patient and knowledgeable. I learned a ton from her!
Shannon C. Adams Studio
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Nearby piano instructors in and around Downers Grove
