Rick Cinquemani

Lessons Offered

Where are Lessons Offered

About Me

Rick Cinquemani has a varied musical background, which has contributed to the unique philosophy of his studio. He has written 20th century symphonic compositions, as well as music in the popular idiom. He has studied with the composer Dr. John Downey, concert pianist Judit Jaimes and jazz educator Alan Swain. He has functioned as theory chair for the North Shore Music Teachers Association and is presently the chairperson for the Skokie chapter of the National Piano Guild. He has also been in a number rock bands and warmed up for acts such as Merle Saunders and Jefferson Starship. 

My Musical Education Background

Rick Cinquemani has a BFA in Music Theory and Composition from UWM with a focus on piano performance and percussion. His piano studies were with Judit Jaimes, percussion with Pavel Burda, compostion with John Downey and jazz studies with Alan Swain. Balancing his musical studies was a focus on psychology and language acquisition.

Genres and Subjects Taught

We provide lessons tailored to a student's age and interests. However, especially with young beginners, we lay a good foundation of classical technique, theory, repertoire, and good knowledge of keys, scales, chords, etc. These are all important for a student's enjoyment of their newfound language. Once these are learned, any musical genre becomes possible - and enjoyable. Jazz/blues improv or anything! Students can get extra help when "stuck". They learn good self-esteem as they learn to divide and conquer their knowledge. In short, we teach that successful, happy people know how to "do what they don't feel like doing in order to get what they want". Then we teach how to do this efficiently.

Lesson Rates

Lessons are one to one - teacher to student. The fees are $106.00 per hour. 30, 45 and 60 minute lessons are given, depending upon the needs of the student and the availability of the teacher.

Ages / Skill Levels Taught

The lessons are given to those of all ages, but interviews are required for students below the age of 6 years.

My Certifications and Awards

Rick Cinquemani was on the National Guild Honor Roll for the years of 2003, 2004 and 2005. His band was also voted Chicago's third favorite in 1994, for which he was invited to play the Vic Theatre in Chicago.

My Musical Influences

Chopin, Miles Davis, Keith Jarrett, Shostakovich, Dr. John, Rachmaninoff, Jimmy Smith, Bill Evans, Judit Jaimes, The Beatles

Service Area

Marny T
Skokie, IL

Jack (7) practiced your way and he really got it, had fun and mastered the section. The next day he insisted on playing the piece through from beginning to end, but it was quite sloppy and he was frustrated. I suggested that he try just the bit we had worked on the day before and it was beautiful, which really impressed him. Claire (my 10-year-old) today insisted that I “play the games” I had played with Jack during his practice, because she felt left out. We did it on one of her new pieces and she quickly saw how well it worked. Thanks again!

Pamela M
Park Ridge, IL

I believe you’ve been telling my daughter “how to practice” for quite some time. As you know, it is very hard to get any information out of a child after lessons. It was a very informative and useful opportunity to sit down with you and get a complete overview of how to practice. Parents should be very strongly encouraged to attend. I ONLY WISH YOU WOULD HAVE HAD THIS SEMINAR MUCH SOONER!

Bernie L
Chicago, IL

I am most thankful to you for the teaching you provide that goes beyond the keyboard. My boy has learned a lot about setting goals and then working towards them. Participating in Guild and Achievement in Music helped in that regard. I also think he has gained self-confidence through this piano experience and that is so important in everything he will do in life. Thank you so much for everything you have done.