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EnglishWhat Is Katie Mellas Piano Studio?
Updated
Katie Mellas Piano Studio is a private piano teaching practice based in the Willowbrook, Downers Grove, and Oak Brook areas of Illinois. The site describes a studio built around customized lessons for beginning through advanced students, taught by an instructor with over 15 years of teaching experience and training in piano pedagogy. If you are looking for a local piano teacher who adapts to a student's learning style and goals, this site is the studio's introduction and contact point.
Who teaches, and what are the qualifications?
The instructor, Katie Mellas, states that she began piano lessons at age 6 and has continued learning since. Her teaching background includes:
- Over 15 years teaching beginning through advanced students
- Training in piano pedagogy (the method and practice of teaching)
- An undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts: Psychology and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Teaching experience dating back to high school
Her musical training extends beyond piano pedagogy. According to the site, she has studied orchestrating and composing more than two dozen scores for community orchestras and ensembles, organ performance at Naper Settlement, music theory and composition, and vocal techniques under an operatic instructor.
The site also lists specific instructors and programs she has studied under:
| Instructor / Program | Credential listed |
|---|---|
| Jane Baldridge | B.A. in Music Education, NCTM, Certified Piano Instructor — pedagogy classes and coaching |
| Scott Mayer | M.A. in Choral Conducting — private piano lessons and composition techniques |
| Donna Shinn | Music Instructor and church pianist — private and group lessons |
| Erin Anders and others | Private piano and theory lessons |
What is the teaching approach?
The studio's stated goal is to instill a love of music, on the premise that music is fun and enjoyable. Two principles stand out on the site:
- Lessons are customized to the individual. The instructor says she uses creative techniques to motivate and inspire students based on their learning style, and tailors lessons to each student's specific needs and goals.
- Methods are evaluated and adjusted. She describes a core principle of reviewing her own techniques and adjusting them to be more effective and to help students succeed.
The site reports that this approach has helped many students win school competitions, play for friends and community, and perform in talent shows. The stated aim is for students to develop skills for their own enjoyment and for playing in their community.
What do students say?
The site includes two student testimonials:
- Hannah: "I really love writing music, and Katie helped me organize my compositions and turn them into some songs and even print them out on my own sheet music!"
- Lilliana: "My experience with Katie is great. She is teaching me so many great things. I would definitely recom…" (the excerpt is cut off on the site)
These suggest the studio supports composition and songwriting alongside standard piano instruction, at least for some students.
Who is it for?
Based on the site's own description, the studio suits:
- Beginners through advanced players
- Students who want lessons shaped around their learning style and personal goals
- Students interested in composition or creative work in addition to playing
- Families in or near Willowbrook, Downers Grove, and Oak Brook, Illinois
What the site does not specify
The provided site content does not list lesson pricing, scheduling details, or whether online lessons are offered. Those specifics are not stated in the available material, so anyone interested would need to ask directly.
How to get more information
The site's main calls to action are Lesson Details and Contact me. If you want to know about rates, availability, or whether the studio fits your level and location, contacting the studio through the site is the practical next step.