Piano Lessons in
South Elgin, IL
Our Approach to Piano Lessons at MECA
We believe every student is unique and different in their own way. Therefore, why should lessons be any different? Each piano lesson is tailored to the individual student’s specific interests and needs.
While focusing on foundational elements such as proper technique, reading music, finger position etc., our teachers also help students learn songs they are familiar with. This includes movie theme music, popular songs on the radio, their favorite classical artist etc. This helps keep students motivated and pushing further to learn each week.
Our approach to
piano lessons
GET STARTED
Piano Lessons Should Be Fun!
We know that an interest in piano may be what first brings you into our school – but having fun is what keeps you coming back! Here at Music Education Center, our goal is for every student to LOVE their music lessons as they embark on a rewarding journey of progress and discovery. We put the “fun” in fundamentals!
Our knowledgeable staff blends a high standard of music education with a creative, student-focused approach that gives students space to discover and nurture their passion for music and the piano. Whether it’s your first time at the keys or you’re a seasoned pianist, our teachers are ready to help you progress quickly toward your goals – while having fun along the way.
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Healthy technique is key to playing comfortably and confidently for years to come. That’s why our teachers start with strong foundations—focusing on hand shape, bench posture, arm movement, and pedaling to support ease, safety, and musical expression.
As students grow, we explore the expressive side of piano through dynamics, phrasing, tempo, and storytelling in music. Along the way, we include elements of music theory and listening skills to support well-rounded musicianship that’s both technical and creative.
We Care About Your Musical Interests & Goals
There is no one-size-fits-all method of piano instruction. Regardless of ability or prior experience, our teachers take an individualized approach to each of our students – underpinned by detailed individual assessments, a personalized learning plan, and one-on-one guidance throughout your musical journey.
While fundamentals and technique are essential, our ultimate goal is to equip students to begin exploring their own personal musical style and interests. Your teacher will work with you to understand where you want to go, and craft a unique plan to get you there. Whether your style is classical or pop (or anything in between), Music Education Center helps students excel in their craft while encouraging the occasional step outside the comfort zone to try something new.
Our Piano Teachers:
Cyndi Crognale
Piano
Piano has been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I began taking lessons when I was 5 years old, and my lessons were truly a highlight in my
Kathy Diem
Piano
Kathy has been playing piano for over 40 years and teaching for over 20. She is very active in her church choir and orchestra as an organist accompanist.
Aaron Marsala
Piano (Beginning & Intermediate), Drums & Percussion
Aaron is a multi-faceted percussionist as well as pianist. His study of music has taken him down many paths. Aaron obtained his Music Education and Music Performance degrees at the University of
Emanuel Perez
Piano
Emanuel, at 19 years old, has been immersed in piano since the age of 6 through private lessons and performance experiences. As the former lead pianist of the South Elgin Jazz Band and a current member of the Jazz Combo at North Central College in Naperville
Grace Bestul
Piano
Grace has been playing the piano for ten years. She has also been learning to play the organ for four years. Grace enjoys sharing her knowledge of music with her students and
Kelvin Lu
Piano
Kelvin has been playing the piano since age 6 and took private lessons throughout that time until starting college. In that span of 12 years, Kelvin played a great variety of pieces
Zak Reiter
Piano (Beginning & Intermediate), Voice, Guitar & Bass
Zak has played the guitar for over 9 years and classical guitar technique for over 5 and has been teaching for over 5 years. Zak has a degree from Judson University where
Paul Bata
Piano, Drums & Percussion
Paul’s journey in music began at age eight with classical piano lessons. He became immersed with Haydn, Mozart, Bach, and Chopin and then later with the Great American Songbook and Jazz.
Gideon Crognale
Cello, Piano, Trumpet
Gideon has been learning music since he was very young. Music has been an enormous part of his life. He currently plays cello, piano, and trumpet. He also participates in the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra as a cellist and in the West Suburban Homeschool Band on trumpet.
Erin Keeny
Piano, Flute
Erin started playing the piano at the age of 4 and took up the flute at 11. During her middle and high school years, she was heavily involved in band, choir, and musical theater. Recently, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Business from Elmhurst University, where she was a member of both the Women’s
Brianna DeWert
Piano
Brianna is currently a sophomore in high school and has been playing for 10 years. Some of her favorite artists are Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Laufey, and Marina and the Diamonds. Her other hobbies include writing, drawing, singing, and taekwondo.
Aidan Klapperich
Piano, Trombone
Aidan is currently a high school student, and has been playing piano for 12 years and trombone for 5 years. This year, Aidan will be performing with the EYSO Youth Symphony and the Sterling Brass Quintet on trombone.
Felipe Feldhaus
Piano
Felipe is a current high school student who began playing piano at the age of 8. It’s been his favorite hobby ever since then! Felipe is both dedicated and focused when it comes to his goals. He works hard to continually improve his piano skills!
Sophie Bestul
Piano
Hi,my name is Sophie Bestul! Starting at age five, I began taking private piano lessons and have continued to do so for twelve years. When I turned eleven, I decided to take viola lessons, as well.
Darío Serrato
Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Piano
Hi there! My name is Darío Serrato, and I’m a music educator, bassist, and multi-instrumentalist originally from central Mexico and now based in Illinois. I specialize in early childhood music education,
How it works
Together we explore student musical goals.
We match students with one of our expert instructors.
Start attending lessons! Parents can receive progress reports each week.
We offer a variety of plans to fit
your schedule & budget
Frequently
Asked
Questions
GET STARTED
What Age Should My Child Start Piano Lessons?
Many students are ready to begin piano lessons around age 5, but every child is different. Some may need a little more time to develop finger coordination, focus, and interest—others may be ready even earlier.
If your child is younger, our Music Explorers program is a great way to introduce them to music in a fun and age-appropriate way. We’re happy to chat and help you decide the best time to get started!
Why Take Piano Lessons at MECA?
At MECA, our piano teachers work with students of all ages and skill levels—helping each one grow through music they love. Whether you’re into classical, pop, or anything in between, we’ll build lessons around your interests while teaching strong fundamentals like note reading, technique, and music theory.
We’ll even incorporate your favorite songs into your lessons to keep things fun and personal. You don’t need a full piano at home to start—an electronic keyboard with at least 61 keys is perfect for beginners. Our teachers are warm, encouraging, and ready to share their love of music with you!
Who Are the Piano Teachers at MECA?
MECA’s piano team includes a wide range of teachers with diverse experience, backgrounds, and teaching styles—so every student can find the right fit. From newer instructors to seasoned professionals, all of our teachers are passionate about helping students grow with lessons tailored to their goals.
We’ll match you with a teacher who meets your needs, whether you’re just starting out, returning to piano, or looking to dive into a specific style or skill.
Do I Need to Know How to Read Music—or Own a Piano—to Start?
You don’t need any prior experience to begin piano lessons at MECA. Our teachers will guide you step by step, including how to read music if it’s new to you.
You also don’t need a full piano to begin—just a digital keyboard with at least 61 full-sized keys so you can practice at home. In general, keyboards are much more economical and require less commitment upfront when it comes to ongoing maintenance and moving costs.
MECA offers a selection of beginner-friendly keyboards for purchase, and our upgrade and exchange program, which applies to select models that we carry in-store, lets you apply the cost of your first instrument toward a more advanced model when you’re ready to take the next step!
Ready to Begin Your Piano Journey?
Whether you’re brand new to piano or picking it up again after a break, we’re here to help you take that exciting first step. We’ll match you with a teacher who fits your goals, learning style, and musical taste—so you can feel supported and inspired every step of the way.
There’s no better way to grow than through one-on-one guidance in a fun, welcoming environment. Let’s discover where your musical journey can take you!
What Will I Learn in Piano Lessons?
Our piano teachers understand that every student is an individual, with personal musical needs and goals. We make it a priority to tailor how we teach and what we teach to your individual needs.
If you enroll here for piano lessons, your teacher will ask you about your favorite type of music, and set goals to help accomplish whatever musical aspirations you have for yourself or your child. Together, you will develop a plan to achieve your goals! We love beginners, so even if you don’t know where to begin, we can help!