A: The Cleveland Institute of Music employs highly qualified teachers to work with students of all ages and abilities. All preparatory piano faculty have at minimum a bachelors degree in music with an emphasis in piano performance and collectively possess hundreds of years of experience instructing pianists of all ages. Many of the faculty are active performers and have achieved local, state and national recognition for their achievements as both teachers and performers.

CIM preparatory piano students travel from all corners of the greater NE Ohio region to pursue piano lessons in the unique and invigorating environment that we strive to provide. Our students have helped establish our department as a preeminent location for piano lessons through their many successes and achievements. Recent highlights have included solo performances with all regional orchestras, including the Cleveland Orchestra, several invitations to appear in Carnegie Hall, an appearance on the nationally acclaimed radio program "From the Top" and top prizes in virtually every local and state competition.

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A: There is no one answer to this question. In general, a six year old can start piano lessons but in some cases children as young as 4 years of age are ready to begin lessons. This decision will be made in consultation with a teacher during an initial interview.

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A: Yes. The CIM preparatory piano department believes very strongly that the quality of the foundation provided to a beginner pianist is crucial to that student's future progress. As such, we have always had a strong commitment to teaching students at the beginner level.

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A: No. We believe in the benefits of individualized instruction as a means to achieve proficiency at the piano. While our students are encouraged to participate in group recitals and master class experiences, the weekly lesson takes place on a one-to-one basis.

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A: The age and level of advancement of a particular student will determine the length of lessons. This decision is made in consultation with a teacher who will attempt to suggest a lesson length that is in the best interests of each student. In general, more advanced students will have a one-hour lesson with beginner students having a 45-minute and in some cases a 30-minute lesson.

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A: Once an application has been filled out (either online or in person), an orientation session is scheduled with the department chair. At the conclusion of this session, the department chair will refer parents to specific teachers with openings at the locations that are being requested. Parents are then free to contact the respective teachers and settle on a mutually agreeable time to all parties. Parents who already know which teacher they want their child to study with are referred directly to that teacher. Lessons take place weekdays from 3-9 pm and on Saturdays from 9-5 pm.

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A: Yes. Learning the classical tradition at the piano is dependent on acquiring sensitivity to the variety of touch and sound that only an acoustic piano can provide. It does not need to be a grand piano! An upright piano in good condition is perfectly adequate.

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A: Lessons take place at the main campus of CIM in University Circle as well as at our satellite locations on the West Side (Fairview Park) and the East Side (Shaker Heights and Orange).

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A: At present the preparatory piano department offers instruction that is grounded in the classical tradition. We believe that a classical training provides the best possible foundation for later exploration of different musical styles.

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