For more than forty years, Pawel Checinski has trained students and professional pianists in preparation for concerts, competitions, recordings, and further musical studies. Pianists from across the world have sought his expertise in performing the repertoire of Fryderyk Chopin. Students of Dr. Checinski have competed in numerous local, state, regional, national, and international piano competitions. Competitions in which his students have participated include the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Competition, the International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians, and the Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition for Young Artists. Many of his students have received prizes and awards for their competition performances.

The unique teaching philosophy of Pawel Checinski has captured the attention of piano students and pedagogues in the U.S. and abroad throughout his career. His ability to completely focus on students, regardless of age or level, allows him to develop as many pianistic qualities as possible in any teaching setting. Dr. Checinski’s teaching methods allow all students to explore numerous avenues of reaching their fullest potential. Those who study with him learn the importance of the physical aspects involved in playing piano, the many ways to produce sound, and accurate stylistic interpretation. Pawel Checinski instills the value that music is one of the most important means of human communication and self-expression.

The following is a comment from one of Dr. Checinski’s longtime students: “You are totally present when working with me. There is a never-ending journey into each note, each dynamic and pulse that awakens me to how it all fits together. You can suggest a change in hand shape, a relaxation of finger, an openness of breathing that immediately makes seemingly impossible passages work. You are tough and honest but always encouraging. This is a rare gift that I only find in the best teachers of any discipline.”

Dr. Checinski currently offers private lessons and coaching sessions at his Logan Square studio in Chicago, Illinois, and the Eola Music Center in Eola, Illinois (located next to Naperville and Aurora). Studio lessons are taught on Steinway grand pianos. Online lessons are offered via Skype. Depending on location, occasional in-home instruction may be arranged. Each lesson is a minimum of one hour. Performances are encouraged but not required. Dr. Checinski accepts students of all levels, including beginners, intermediate students, advanced students, teachers, and professional pianists. He is also available for adjudications and master classes at schools, colleges, universities, and private settings.

To inquire about studying with Dr. Checinski, please submit the online form on the “Email” page.