​Thinking about buying your first guitar? That’s an exciting step—but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. Before you head to the music store (or start scrolling online), here are a few helpful things to consider.
You Don’t Need a Guitar to Start LessonsFirst things first: if you’re brand new to guitar, you don’t need to own one before starting lessons. At our studio, we have both acoustic and electric guitars available for students to try out during their sessions. This can be a great way to get a feel for what kind of guitar you enjoy before committing to a purchase.
What Kind of Guitar Should You Buy?To figure out what kind of guitar to purchase, it’s helpful to know what kind of music or playing style you’re most interested in. Here's a quick guide:

• 🎸 Acoustic Guitar (steel/nickel strings): Great for beginners and those who want to strum, sing, and play popular songs.
  
• 🎸 Electric Guitar: Ideal for those who want to play rock, jazz, blues, or anything that needs an amp and some distortion.
  
• 🎸 Classical Guitar (nylon strings): Perfect for classical music and fingerstyle playing.
  
• 🧒 Smaller Guitars for Kids: For children under age 9, consider a smaller-sized guitar that’s easier to hold and play.
  

Visiting a Music StoreOnce you know the type of guitar you’re looking for, visiting a store like Guitar Center can be an eye-opening (and fun!) experience. You’ll be able to try out a variety of guitars and amps, and it can be incredibly motivating to physically hold and hear the instruments in action.
Even if you don’t buy anything, the trip is worth it. It’s a great way to explore what feels and sounds right for you. That said, wouldn’t it be even better if you already knew a few chords or riffs before stepping into the shop? That’s why we often recommend taking a few lessons before making a purchase—it gives you more confidence and helps you make a better-informed choice.
Shopping Online or Buying UsedIf you prefer shopping online, there are some great options out there:

• Guitar Center’s used section is reliable and offers a return policy.
  
• Amazon can be convenient, but be sure to read reviews carefully and avoid no-name brands with poor feedback.
  
• Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp can offer amazing deals—but proceed with caution. Always inspect the guitar thoroughly for structural issues and playability before buying.
  

Still Unsure? We’re Happy to Help!
If you or your child is considering learning guitar but aren’t sure where to start with buying an instrument, feel free to ask us for advice! Whether you're testing guitars during your lessons or need help evaluating an online find, we’re here to make sure you start off on the right foot.

If you're learning music in Chicago, you’re already part of something bigger. This city is one of the birthplaces of electric blues, a genre that transformed American music and shaped the sounds of rock, soul, R&B, and beyond. Whether you're taking piano, guitar, voice, violin or drum lessons, understanding the blues gives you a powerful foundation—and there's no better guide than the Chicago Blues Guide.
This incredible local resource offers everything an aspiring musician needs to plug into the scene:

• Listings for blues jams where you can hear and play live music in real time
• Concert calendars and local show previews
• Reviews and music recommendations from writers who know the scene
• Interviews and articles that explore the roots and future of Chicago blues

Blues isn’t just a genre—it’s a language. Learning to listen, interpret, and play blues teaches you how to feel music, not just read it. That’s what makes Chicago such a special place to grow as a musician. From Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy to today’s torchbearers, this city has always been a creative engine for music with soul.
Whether you’re a beginner learning your first chords or an advanced student expanding your style, immersing yourself in the local blues scene can deeply enrich your musical journey.
We recommend checking out Chicago Blues Guide often to stay informed, inspired, and connected to this living tradition. It’s not just a great resource—it’s a reminder that Chicago music is still very much alive, and it’s waiting for you to join in.

While this is not a book per say it's a program designed to get kids playing, learning and loving music. It is a music foundations class so it doesn't focus only on piano but teaches the fundamentals of music to prime kids for later music education and a lifetime of learning, playing, and loving music.

​📘 Piano Adventures by Nancy and Randall Faber
A tried-and-true method that kids love. The Primer Level introduces reading, rhythm, and musical expression through colorful illustrations and well-paced songs. As students grow, the series continues to build their skills step by step.

​📘 Piano Adventures Accelerated Series
Older students new to piano can jump into this faster-paced version of Piano Adventures. Still start with the Primer if you're brand new—then move confidently into Level 1 and beyond.

📘 Adult Piano Adventures by Faber
This all-in-one book is perfect for adult learners. It combines technique, theory, and engaging repertoire in a format that’s approachable and rewarding. No prior experience required.
🎶 Adult Piano Adventures: Popular Book 1
Once you’ve started with the main method book, this one adds familiar pop and jazz tunes to the mix—great for motivation and variety!
📘 Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course
Another solid choice for adult beginners. Clear instruction, well-sequenced lessons, and a straightforward style make it a favorite for those who want a more traditional approach.

📘 Béla Bartók – For Children, Vol. 1 & 2
Inspired by Eastern European folk tunes, these short, expressive pieces are full of character and nuance. Perfect for students ready to explore more sophisticated rhythms, harmonies, and phrasing.
🎼 First Lessons in Bach (Book 1 & 2)
A beautiful entry point into Baroque music. These short pieces by J.S. Bach help develop independence between the hands, as well as a deeper understanding of melody, harmony, and counterpoint.

​📘 The Real Book (Sixth Edition)
An essential resource for any jazz musician. It’s not a method book, but a collection of lead sheets for hundreds of jazz standards. Great for students who want to start exploring improvisation, chord voicings, and the language of jazz piano.

Whatever your age or musical interests, there’s a piano book out there that will meet you where you are and help you grow. These books are all excellent companions for students beginning their lessons in Chicago—especially at studios like ours that prioritize fun, creativity, and musical expression.
🎶 Want help choosing the right book or getting started with lessons? Contact us—we’re here to help you fall in love with the piano!

If you are are taking Chicago violin lessons and it's time to purchase an instrument this article is for you. There are several excellent shops that offer quality instruments and knowledgeable staff to help you find the right fit.

When buying a violin, size matters—especially for beginners. Most adults will use a full-sized (4/4) violin, but for children, it’s essential to choose a violin that matches their body size. Learning on an instrument that’s too big can lead to poor technique and physical strain. A properly sized violin helps young players develop good habits and play comfortably from the start.

Two great local options are Caesar’s Music of Illinois and the Old Town School of Folk Music Store. Caesar’s Music has a longstanding reputation for quality string instruments and attentive customer service, while the Old Town Music Store offers a wide range of student and professional violins and can help guide you or your child toward the right size and setup.

If you’re not ready to commit to purchasing an instrument, many local music shops also offer violin rentals, which can be a smart, affordable way to get started—especially for growing kids who may need a larger size within a year or two.

And for those looking for pure convenience, sites like Amazon offer a variety of beginner violin kits that can be delivered to your door. While in-person shops provide more personalized service and setup, online shopping can be a quick solution if you know what you need.
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No matter how you choose to get your violin, the important thing is to find the right fit so you or your child can play comfortably and confidently.

If you're just starting piano lessons, you don’t need to own a piano right away. Many students begin with just their lessons and still make great progress! Once you're feeling ready to start practicing at home, that’s a great time to look for an instrument—and buying a used keyboard or electric piano can be a smart, budget-friendly choice.
Here’s what to look for when shopping for a used keyboard:

✅ Weighted Keys (This Is a Must!)
To develop proper finger strength and technique, you'll want a keyboard with fully weighted or semi-weighted keys. This makes your practice feel more like a real acoustic piano.
Pro tip: Avoid keyboards with very light or springy keys—they’re usually not ideal for building good habits.
Look for terms like:

• Weighted keys
• Touch-sensitive
• Graded hammer action

✅ 88 Keys (Full Keyboard Size)
A full-size piano has 88 keys. While smaller models with 61 or 76 keys can work for absolute beginners or small spaces, having all 88 keys gives you more room to grow.

✅ Pedal Options
As you learn more music, you’ll want to start using the sustain pedal (that’s the one that makes notes ring out). Make sure the keyboard either:

• Comes with a pedal, or
• Has an input jack so you can plug one in

Even better: some models come with a built-in three-pedal unit, just like a real piano.

✅ Comfortable Setup
Don't forget the basics:

• A sturdy stand keeps the keyboard secure
• A bench or adjustable chair helps you sit at the right height
• Proper setup can prevent strain and make practice more enjoyable

✅ Reliable Brands
Here are some trusted names that make great digital pianos and keyboards:

• Yamaha (P-Series, Arius, Clavinova)
• Roland
• Kawai
• Casio (especially Privia models)
• Alesis

These brands offer reliable quality, even when bought used. Try looking for models that originally sold in the $400–$1000 range—they're often a great value when secondhand.

🔍 Where to Shop
Looking for a used keyboard? Check out:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• OfferUp
• Reverb.com
• Local music stores (some even include a short warranty on used gear!)

🛠 Quick Tip Before You Buy
If possible, test the keyboard—or ask the seller for a video—to make sure:

• All the keys work (no sticky or silent ones)
• The volume and power controls function
• It sounds good and feels comfortable to play

👋 Need Help Choosing?
Not sure if a keyboard you found is a good fit? Ask your teacher! We’re always happy to take a quick look at a listing or help you find a model that suits your goals and budget.

Learning piano should feel exciting—not overwhelming. Start with lessons, explore at your own pace, and when you're ready to play more at home, a good used keyboard can be your best first investment.

​Our Winter Recital was nothing short of spectacular! The day was filled with incredible performances, heartwarming moments, and the joy of sharing music with friends and family. From our youngest beginners to our seasoned performers, every student brought their unique energy and talent to the stage. We are so proud of everyone who participated and grateful to our supportive community for making this event unforgettable. Take a look at some of the amazing memories captured from the recital!

Our spring recital this year was a wild success! Thank you to everyone who participated and watched/listened. Here are some photo highlights of the day!!

Here is our instructor Casey Laughlin demonstrating how to play the major arpeggio on guitar. This lesson applies to both electric and acoustic guitar.

Practicing the major arpeggio is highly beneficial for guitarists, offering a deep understanding of chord construction and enhancing both technical proficiency and musical expression. An arpeggio is the individual notes of a chord played in succession, and practicing the major arpeggio helps guitarists become familiar with the fundamental building blocks of music. By practicing the major arpeggio, guitarists develop a strong sense of harmony, as they learn to navigate the notes that make up a major chord. This knowledge is crucial for improvisation and composition, as it allows players to create melodies that complement the underlying chord progression.


Moreover, practicing the major arpeggio improves a guitarist's finger dexterity and coordination. Playing arpeggios requires precise control over each finger, helping to develop strength and agility in both hands. This technical proficiency translates into smoother and more confident playing across all styles of music. Additionally, practicing arpeggios enhances a guitarist's ear training, as they learn to identify the individual notes of a chord by ear. This skill is invaluable for playing by ear and improvising, as guitarists can more easily identify which notes will harmonize with a given chord progression.

Below is a video of our guitar instructor Casey Laughlin demonstrating how to play the major pentatonic scale. To learn how to play and use this scale in a step by step, fun, and achievable way book a trial lesson with Casey! 

Practicing the major pentatonic scale is highly beneficial for guitarists, offering a versatile and melodic foundation for improvisation and composition. This scale, derived from the major scale, consists of five notes per octave, creating a simple yet rich sound. By practicing the major pentatonic scale, guitarists develop a strong sense of melody, as the scale's structure encourages the creation of memorable and expressive musical phrases. This makes it an excellent choice for soloing and creating guitar licks that stand out in various musical contexts.
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Moreover, practicing the major pentatonic scale helps guitarists understand the harmonic relationships within a key. Since the major pentatonic scale shares the same notes as its relative major scale, players can easily see how the scale fits into a broader musical framework. This understanding is invaluable for guitarists looking to expand their musical vocabulary and create more sophisticated compositions. Additionally, the major pentatonic scale's simple and symmetrical pattern makes it easy to transpose to different keys, allowing guitarists to explore new tonalities and expand their musical horizons.