Christie Chiles Twillie 4556 N. Beacon Street, Unit 1, Chicago IL, 60640
Instruments:Piano, Theory
Styles:Classical, Kids, Other
Levels:Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Experience:25 years
Rate:$70 / hrShare
Personal Statement
Playing music is both a joy and a skill that I feel almost everyone should have the opportunity to try. In lessons, I help children and adults learn to play in a manner that is easy and comfortable. As you settle into lessons we will go farther and deeper into your playing without stress or any feelings of “I can’t do it.” I use materials that are appropriate for the individual. We will spend time on technique and theory because you will need that knowledge to develop your playing. I am primarily classically based, however, I also use also of music from movies, pop music and musical theater to develop potential. If you want to play for fun, major in music, or play professionally I would be a good fit for your family. All I ask that is your are open and honest in lessons about practicing and realistic goals for yourself and the amount of time you have for study.
Education / Training
First and foremost, I am a mom and understand the importance of putting individuals in a setting where they can learn to their full potential and be successful while enjoying what they do. I use a variety of piano methods such as Schaum, Thompson, Czerny and the Hal Leonard. All technical work and Theory students are from independent materials. I teach students ages 7 and up. Lesson Lengths are 30 minutes, 45 minutes or an hour. I like working with little people. We work well together and have fun. I know this is can be a parental concern when considering a teacher with my experience and background but I can assure you everything will be just fine. Of course big people in lessons do just fine too. If parents and students are interested, I am happy to take them to formal exams such as through ABRSM Royal School, or AIM. We can also do piano competitions and adjudicative events I have one or two student recitals each year and my students study for many years and thrive in their lessons. If you are applying to performing arts high school or a college piano program, I am happy to assist with your audition preparation.
My Bachelors and Masters Degree studies were in Piano Performance at West Virginia University, and Ohio University. I also have a minor in Dance from West Virginia University.
Piano Teachers: Charlotte Giles, Peter Amstutz, and Sylvia Henry (Eckes)
Master Classes: Nelita True and Christopher Taylor
Chamber Music Coaches: Rudolph Haken, Stephen Boe, Jean Barr, and Howard Beebe
Ive taught beginner to professional level pianists for over 20 years now. I teach Piano Pedagogy courses and workshops to teachers, serve as pianist and Music Director for many Musical Theatre productions in Chicago, and have a piano trio called Pivici.
I was a Young Artist Concerto Competition winner in 1995 the recipient of the Marion Anderson/Alvin Ailey Award for Excellence in the Arts. I have been featured as a soloist and chamber musician with the West Virginia State University Choir, West Virginia University Symphony Orchestra, Opera Columbus, Ohio University Graduate String Players, The Columbus Womens Orchestra, at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and on West Virginia Public Radio.
I have judged competitions for the National Federation of Music Clubs, NAACP Act-So Competition and the Tiferith Israel Young Jewish Competition and was an adjudicator for the Kentucky Arts Council Artist-In-Residence program and all Piano Lessons In Your Home events.
I am a member of the Evanston Music Club, MTNA, the Illinois Music Teachers Association (ISMTA) and Chicago Area Music Teachers Association (CAMTA).
In my full time position, I the director of a very large music school and their continuing education program. I have been with the school for 13 years now.
I look forward to hearing from you regarding private lessons. New and transfer students are welcome.