Student Comments

"Dear Jennifer,

In the ways music connects and harmonizes, so words cannot, though
nevertheless I will try to thank you insofar words allow!

Thank you for transparently listening, for opening yourself to the
reality of my situation and crafting--and as it often happened,
marvelously improvising!--dynamic lesson plans in sync with what best
assisted me, regardless of the methods and styles you might have
preferred. How rare it is to learn from someone with extraordinary
talent: to see that ability unfold in our lessons without
intimidating, overwhelming, or interjecting. Somehow your insight was
spot-on every time you motivated me as a person, a student, and most
germanely, a piano player. Your simple yet uncanny metaphors explained
the theory underlying technique without betraying the subtleties of
technique. Each time I sat next to you to play, I was amazed (and
perplexed, if you believe it) at how much not only I learned, but also
how much you took in and responded to in a matter of moments.

We adults often have a million tasks we insist we must address before
we pursue those interests that truly make us come alive; however,
through your undying patience, keen intuition, and gentle
encouragement, you proved that without such joy in our lives, nothing
else is worth pursuing.

What an ineffable joy it has been to learn from a musician with your
remarkable flexibility, attuned guidance, and open listening. Thank
you for supporting me, for stretching me musically, and for simply
allowing me to be. I am forever grateful.

With warmest wishes,
Shruti "

"Jennifer's life experience really show[s] in her teaching. In just 2 short lessons, she has drastically impacted my approach to practice and even my overall view of music and its place in my life. Thanks, Jennifer!"

Daniel T., Student

“In a matter of weeks, Jennifer has turned a musically ignorant 33 year-old with a dream of playing piano, into something resembling a music-reading pianist. I can walk up to a piano and play some Beethoven or The Beatles thanks to Jennifer's effective teaching style and patient tutoring. To say I could actually read and play a simple piece of music after my very first class is not an exaggeration. I am impressed with my own progress and that is thanks to Jennifer.”

Rachel A., Student

"Jennifer Kelly was a great introductory piano teacher for my children. They looked forward to their lessons each week. Jennifer handled them beautifully, offering fun, instruction and progress all in one. Jennifer paved the way to a successful piano future."

Sara S., Mother of 2 Students

"Our 6-year-old son just started piano lessons for the first time, this summer at the park district with Jennifer McCabe. After a few lessons, we asked him if he likes piano, and he responded, "I LOVE it!" It has now been about two months and he likes it more and more every week. Jennifer McCabe is a caring, kind, and patient instructor, and she chooses books, pieces, and exercises that are at a perfect level and that he really enjoys practicing and playing. We recommend her highly."

Jennifer H., Mother of Zachary