WHY THE TRADITIONAL PIANO LESSON PATH DOESN’T ALWAYS WORK FOR OLDER STUDENTS WHO WANT TO EXPLORE MUSIC CREATIVELY
Let’s face it, traditional piano lessons can feel a bit like following a recipe with no room to add your own spices. Sure, classic drills and rigid exercises build technique, but for students who want to go beyond just playing the notes, the traditional path can feel, well, limiting.
Our approach is different. We’re all about flexibility, creativity, and connecting to the music on a deeper level. Instead of a “one-size-fits-all” curriculum, we customize lessons around each student’s interests, helping them shape their unique musical style. Want to dive into practical theory, improvise a bit, or play music on the fly without a second thought? Perfect – we make room for that.
For teens and adults who see music as more than just notes on a page, our lessons offer a refreshing, modern take. If you’re ready to build real skills while keeping your creative spark alive, our program gives you the best of both worlds – structure and the freedom to explore music in the moment.
Is this TYPE OF PIANO Lesson For OLDER STUDENTS a good fit?
If you’re looking for more than just traditional piano lessons, you’re in the right place. This program is designed for students ages 13 and up who want to grow their skills while having the freedom to explore their own musical interests. It’s a great fit if you’re the type who wants to really understand what you’re playing, bring your own style into each song, and maybe even jump into a jam session or play music on the fly without missing a beat.
We’re all about creating a learning experience that’s as unique as you are, with lessons that are customized to help you reach your goals, whether that’s building solid technique, diving into real-world music theory, or getting comfortable performing. If that sounds like what you’re looking for, then yes – this program was made for you.
But hey, if you’re after a more rigid, non-flexible, and restrictive traditional approach, we totally get it! In fact, we maintain a "traditional piano lesson” database for just this reason, and we’d be happy to offer referrals. Just let us know, and we’ll point you in the right direction!
EXPERIENCE PIANO LESSONS IN AN INSPIRING, PRO STUDIO ENVIRONMENT
Step into a studio where everything is set up to inspire. Our space features smart lighting that creates a relaxed, creative vibe, helping you feel right at home from the start. You’ll be surrounded by pro-level audio gear and top-tier soundproofing for lessons that are clear, immersive, and distraction-free.
We’ve integrated high-level tech throughout, making it easy to dive into digital music tools and recording when you’re ready. And with large, comfortable studios and welcoming waiting rooms, there’s plenty of space to settle in and focus. It’s a professional environment that’s also warm and inviting—perfect for learning and making music.
SOME REASONS TO EMBARK ON A JOURNEY OF GROWTH WITH OUR PIANO LESSONS FOR OLDER STUDENTS
FOCUS ON WHAT COUNTS: Our piano lessons skip the fluff and dive straight into the techniques that matter, helping you improve your playing quickly and effectively.
MUSIC THEORY THAT WORKS IN THE REAL WORLD: No dry, over-complicated theory here. We focus on practical music theory that’s instantly useful, so you understand why each chord and melody works.
STRENGTH, CONTROL, AND SPEED: Develop finger strength, control, and speed that let you glide through challenging pieces, making even complex songs feel smooth and natural.
CUSTOMIZED LEARNING PLANS: Your goals, your music, your style. Every lesson is tailored to your interests, whether you’re into classical, jazz, pop, indie, or creating something all your own.
A CREATIVE APPROACH TO PIANO: We go beyond just technique to help you bring your personality into your playing, making each piece of music uniquely yours.
PLAY THE SONGS YOU LOVE: Say goodbye to boring, one-size-fits-all songs. Choose music that excites you, making practice something you actually look forward to.
EXPRESSIVE TECHNIQUES FOR PIANO: Learn to play with dynamics, phrasing, and emotion, so your music resonates and connects with listeners, giving your sound that professional polish.
IMPROVISATION AND PLAYING ON THE FLY: Master the art of improvising and playing music in the moment, so you can create on the spot, whether alone or with others.
A FUN, MODERN APPROACH TO PIANO: Our lessons are designed to be engaging and relevant, focusing on skills you can apply right away—no endless, repetitive drills here.
SEE REAL PROGRESS EVERY WEEK (WITH A LITTLE PRACTICE): Each lesson builds on the last, so you can clearly track your growth and see what’s next on your path to piano mastery.
INSTRUCTORS WHO CARE: Our piano teachers are experienced, supportive, and committed to helping you reach your goals in a positive environment—no pressure, just progress.
What They Are Saying About Clarendon Hills Music Academy
Jennifer S.
"My kids have played piano here for about 5 years. We love Derek who is their teacher and the owner. He mixes things up so they don’t get bored and lets them choose their favorite pop songs to play."
Karyn V.
"My CHMA Instructor has been such an encouraging teacher and I have really grown as a musician over the past 5 years. I would highly recommend him. He is a phenomenal piano player and knows all of the theory to back that up. My lessons have been customized to meet my needs and interests over time. My instructor has helped me get up to speed when I joined a blues/rock band. He came up with creative ideas for me to become good at comping and soloing in my jazz combo group. Most memorable is when I needed to learn about 20 songs in a short amount of time and he helped me come up with a practice plan and a way to tackle the songs so that I was ready for the gig on time and not just winging it."
Rory S.
I took lessons with CHMA for a little over a year. Every lesson was brilliant because we went over old stuff, learned new stuff and I was able to bring in questions and songs I wanted to learn. If my teacher didn't know the answer (rarely), it became a learning opportunity for both parties.
CHMA is really in touch with technology, My instructor's passion for his craft, and you as the student, really is a great motivator to practice and be able to learn something new every lesson. Fantastic experience and I'd happily go back!
Tristan R.
I’ve been playing piano for about 13 years I think, but I have never made more progress than I did within my first few months at CHMA. They perfectly cater their curriculum to each individual student, focusing on their specific strengths and interests. They balance typical ‘by-the-book’ learning with more interesting learning in a way that makes learning any topic fun and engaging. This is the place to go to if you want to advance in any way musically!
Jackie E.
Best in town. Best around. The CH Music Academy team is amazing. All ages are welcome. They really take care of Their clients and community. Highly recommend!!!
Hannah S.
I've been taking lessons at CHMA for six years as a voice student, piano student, guitar student, and a member of the Recording Artist Academy. I had tried many different music institutions before coming here, and I've never looked back. I grew as a student, a performer and as an artist in my time at CHMA. Thanks to Derek and the crew at the academy I was able to release my original music on all streaming platforms and have since gotten several hundred plays on my music! Clarendon Hills Music Academy has been a home for me for the past six years and I intend on going back whenever I'm home from school!
Sonja G
My daughter took both voice and piano for a few years with CHMA. I honestly can't say enough good things about it. From the time she was 7 until 10, she grew so much, both musically and with her confidence in singing. Her instructor was a wonderful teacher who never pushed her (unless she wanted to be pushed), and really bonded with her about music.
The staff was amazing, VERY easy to communicate with, and very understanding if schedules change. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Ander Iturralde
Clarendon Hills Music Academy is a truly wonderful place. It is one that has had a deep impact on my life. If you want to dive deeper into your musical interests, and potentially further develop yourself as a whole, it is absolutely the place do it. Its owner, Derek Berg, sets the highest standards not only for himself but for the academy overall, putting together a selection of consistently excellent teachers. Previous to coming across it, I had had very little formal musical exposure, yet the growth that I have experienced thanks to them has been amazing. Whether it'd be piano, voice or almost anything in between that you want to learn or improve on, no matter your age, CHMA is a decision that you will be happy you made.
Jamie Shifley
My daughter has been with CHMA for years. Most recently, she is doing the Recording Artist Academy. This endeavor has helped her grow her skills dramatically. She has developed her voice, but has also learned to write her own songs, and is discovering what her own music style truly is. She looks forward to her lesson each week and excitedly sends me recordings of her own songs. It’s a wonderful program
Steve Loan
I wanted to play piano, but thought that being in my 40's was too late in life to learn. CHMA proved that it is never too late to learn, even if you have no music experience! Derek had me learn with the styles of music I enjoy-Jazz and Blues. After a short while I was playing songs and reading sheet music. He worked in lessons on music theory which really strengthened my understanding of how music is put together. CHMA is a fun, relaxing environment and I can attest that with lessons here, anyone can learn to play no matter what your age.
Suzan Ganzer
I learned so much here about music and recording a song and had a blast!! The instructors are super smart and talented. Great care was taken by the team here in recording my original song to make it the absolute best it could be. Anyone wishing to learn about music / or the recording process would benefit greatly going to this awesome music academy. I know i did! If I could live there I totally would!! Fun, educational, and inspirational. Thumbs up, they rock!!!!
Rita Nelson
I first started taking piano lessons at CHMA when I was really young, and I remember finding it so cool that I got to play music I listened to on the radio. The lessons were really entertaining because not only do you get to learn basic techniques, but also how to improvise and play along with chords and music. You get to basically choose your path and create your own experience. The coolest part about CHMA though is the recording artist program. I’ve loved writing songs since before I can remember, and a few years ago I wanted to start recording and releasing them on platforms. I went back to the academy and started recording, and honestly it’s the highlight of my week as well as a great way to get high quality recordings and work on your own original compositions. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a way to get their music out there or learn an instrument in a more modern way.
Ben Waverley
The best part of CHMA is that the lessons are designed completely around the students’ preferences. The idea that a student can walk into a room and name a tune and instantly have an expert start working on it with them that day is something you don’t find at other music academies. For the most personalized lesson experience, whether it be traditional music lessons or producing a video with the Music Project Lab program that the academy offers, CHMA is the way to go.
Kate Buikema
I’ve been doing CHMA for a year and it’s been amazing having this great creative outlet. The instructors are so passionate about music and helping and encourgaing you in every way they can. I’ve really appreciated all the coaching and it has helped my work so much. It’s a super unique experience and definitely worth doing!
Terms: We offer one free trial per family or individual. If you’ve had a free trial at any point in the past, we welcome you to try a Single Paid Trial.
MEET YOUR PIANO INSTRUCTORS
KATE B.
Kate is a classically trained pianist, producer, and songwriter with a passion for balancing technical foundation and creative expression. Her unique style bridges the worlds of solo piano repertoire and experimental art pop.
Originally from Ukraine, Kate earned her BA from Pomona College and her MFA from the California Institute of the Arts, where she explored experimental piano and music technology while premiering original works.
Kate’s teaching approach emphasizes both the fundamentals of piano performance and the freedom to explore creative possibilities. She blends technique, theory, and artistry in every lesson, encouraging her students to improvise, compose, and experiment.
Whether you're looking to master piano solos or expand into songwriting, production, or beat-making, Kate is dedicated to helping you build a strong foundation while unlocking your creative potential.
CARMEN R.
Carmen is a classically trained piano instructor with a passion for both classical and contemporary music. She began playing the piano at a young age, progressing through private lessons, conservatory training, and university studies.
Carmen is dedicated not only to teaching the fundamentals of reading and playing music but also to encouraging her students to experiment, improvise, and compose. She believes that each lesson should be a blend of playing techniques, music theory, and creativity. This approach helps students unlock their potential as musicians and creators.
As a full-time music streamer and performer, Carmen understands the healing power of music. She aims to create a holistic learning environment where students can find a safe space in music. For Carmen, music is not just an artistic tool but also a practical exercise to achieve relaxation and happiness in everyday life.
Her goal is to provide students with a structured yet enjoyable routine, building their confidence to achieve their musical aspirations.
TIFFANY D.
Tiffany, a passionate musician since age six, began her journey composing melodies on her family's piano. Now an educator, she shares her enthusiasm for music with students of all ages, guiding them from novices to proficient pianists. Centering her teaching philosophy on empowering students, Tiffany inspires them to believe in their musical prowess while emphasizing music theory and creativity. She takes the time to build strong relationships, understanding students' interests and goals to offer personalized guidance.
Tiffany encourages parental involvement and is dedicated to helping students discover talents and interests, fostering love and appreciation for music even in those lacking initial confidence. Her students can expect an inspiring, supportive environment that nurtures their musical abilities and cultivates a lifelong passion for piano playing.
DEREK BERG
Derek Berg is the creator of the Piano Rebellion High-Level Piano Training system and a CHMA High-Level Certified instructor with 40,000+ hours of piano teaching experience. Immersed in music from an early age, Derek studied jazz piano with Wellington Schiller—Frank Sinatra’s preferred Chicago pianist—continued his training at The Chicago Academy for the Arts, and later toured nationally with the band Phix.
He has performed with artists including Sugar Blue, Michael Travis (String Cheese Incident), Darren Garvey (Elephant Revival), Dave Uhrich, Adam Greuel (High Hawks), Paul Murin (Deadphish Orchestra), Chris Sheldon (Steely Dead), Bob Lizik (Brian Wilson’s touring band), Brian Adams (Great American Taxi), John Kattke (Further), and Chicago radio legend Kevin Matthews, and has collaborated with producers Frank Pappalardo and Brad Nye.
After years on the road, Derek founded Clarendon Hills Music Academy (CHMA) to connect technique with creativity through innovative, contemporary programs. Today, through Piano Rebellion and CHMA’s High-Level track, he helps students transform skill into artistry—building confident, original musicians who can create on their own terms.
Terms: We offer one free trial per family or individual. If you’ve had a free trial at any point in the past, we welcome you to try a Single Paid Trial.