piano class
Group Piano Classes at Hyde Park Suzuki Institute
Discover the joy of learning piano in a supportive group environment where students build musicianship, confidence, creativity, and lifelong musical skills.
Why choose Piano Class?
Piano Class combines the excitement of learning with peers and the individualized attention students need to succeed. Through engaging activities, ensemble playing, movement, rhythm games, and performance opportunities, students develop strong musical foundations while having fun.
Students will:
✓ Learn to read music
✓ Develop healthy piano technique
✓ Build rhythmic accuracy
✓ Understand melody and harmony
✓ Perform confidently
✓ Make music together
Meet Your Instructor
Meet George T. Cooper, Jr.
George T. Cooper, Jr. (“Geo”) is a pianist, composer, conductor, and educator with more than 40 years of experience in music education and performance. A graduate of Fisk University with a Bachelor of Music in Piano, he currently serves as Conductor and Accompanist for Uniting Voices Chicago and has been Minister of Music at The Congregational Church of Park Manor since 2007. George is also the founder of the Ella Sheppard School of Music, where he provided free music education to hundreds of children. At Hyde Park Suzuki Institute, he is passionate about helping students build strong musical foundations, confidence, and a lifelong love of music through engaging and collaborative Piano Lab classes.
Fall 2026 Classes
Elementary
📅 Wednesdays |🕕 6:00–6:45 PM- Ages 11–13
- Develop technique, musicianship, and confidence through collaborative learning.
- Fall Term Class Dates: 9/16, 9/23, 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/9
Intermediate Beginners
📅 Mondays |🕔 5:00–5:45 PM- Ages 8–10
- For students ready to expand reading, rhythm, and ensemble skills.
- Fall Term Class Dates: 9/14, 9/28, 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21
Young Beginners
📅 Wednesdays |🕔 5:00–5:30 PM- Ages 5–7
- Perfect for students beginning their musical journey.
- Fall Term Class Dates: 9/16, 9/23, 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/9
Why Parents Love Piano Lab
1. Small Class Sizes
Students receive individualized guidance while learning alongside peers.
2. Collaborative Learning
Children learn from each other while building teamwork and listening skills.
3. Performance Opportunities
Students celebrate their progress through informal performances and community events.
What to Bring
Just Bring Yourself!
✔ Keyboards are provided during class.
No instrument is required for the first class.
We’ll guide families on recommendations for home practice.
Ready to Get Started?
Join Piano Class This Fall
✔ Small Classes
✔ Experienced Instructor
✔ Keyboards Provided
✔ Performance Opportunities
FAQ
Do I need to own a piano?
No. Keyboards are provided during class.
Does my child need prior experience?
No. Beginner classes are designed specifically for students with little or no previous piano experience.
What age groups are offered?
5–7
8–10
11–13
Are there performances?
Yes. Students participate in performance opportunities throughout the year.
Where are classes held?
Hyde Park Suzuki Institute
(Congregation Rodfei Zedek)