student's comments

"Mr. Cech's abilities as a teacher go far beyond piano. I studied with him for 13 years. He arranged lessons with an excellent oboe teacher, helped involve me in an outstanding high school music program, and gave me valuable performance experience with recitals and a concerto. Most importantly, if you or your child's interest advances into piano or music as a career, he has the knowledge and experience to take your playing to a very advanced level, and to help you understand the commitment and instill the discipline that is necessary in order for you to advance.

I chose not to make a career out of music. However, my daughter has benefited directly from my education through Mr. Cech. I help her every day, walking through the hard parts in Clair de Lune and the Warsaw Concerto (Mr. Cech's markings and fingering) and admonishing her to practice and avoid distractions. She does extremely well in school, and I believe this is in part due to the discipline instilled by her musical education.

If you have a child and are considering an education in music, you will not fine! a better instructor than Mr. Cech. The gift he will give your child will go beyond a music education, making hire or her a better, more rounded, more disciplined person, with the ability to bestow the learning on future generations." (Bob Kral)

"I studied piano with Joseph Cech from age 7 through my high school and early college years. Mr. Cech passed his love of music on to me, so much in fact, that I made a decision to dedicate my livelihood to creating music. 

As a successful educator in the northwest suburbs as well as a musical theater performer and musical director in professional Chicago area theater, I credit my musical abilities to the incredible experiences I had under the guidance of Joe Cech." (Steve Sivak)

"I first began piano lessons with Joseph Cech when I was 10 years old and had never touched a piano before. Within a very short time I was progressing rapidly, and as time went on Mr. Cech always found new ways to inspire me to succeed. He taught me about the excitement and challenges of making music, and from him I learned not only the fundamentals of playing the piano, but also the amazing joy of being a musician. 

Under his tutelage I entered and won many music contests, performed on the radio, played with the West Suburban Symphony Orchestra and gave three solo Recitals. Mr. Cech brought out in me a dedication and love for music that inspired me to make music part of my career. When I began my undergraduate degree at Indiana University School of Music, my piano professor was ecstatic at my ability and my musicality and I credit that to Mr. Cech. He is an outstanding piano teacher and I am eternally grateful for all his motivation, encouragement and support."  (Megan Vogus) 

"I studied with Joseph Cech for 10 years, ending when I went on to college to major in piano. During the years I studied with him, Joe provided me with numerous opportunities to play in recitals, competitions and master classes. Joe's teaching methodology gave me an excellent technical grounding, a firm foundation on which I could build my personal musical style. Joe instructed me in musical interpretation, but also encouraged me to develop my own ideas and helped to hone my musical aesthetic.

Joe has long been considered one of the finest piano teachers in the Chicagoland area. He has a loyal following among his current and former students, and their parents as well. Saying, "I study with Joseph Cech" means you are well trained, expressive, and serious about playing the instrument.

Although my career took a different direction and I no longer make my living through music, my years studying with Joe provided me with lessons I use every day. Joe's teaching methodology provided me with the skills to succeed, whether at music or at life. These basic skills, such as attention to detail and a disciplined approach to problem solving, are essential in today's technical work environment. But the most important lesson Joe provides is that there is much satisfaction in working hard and striving for excellence." (Cynthia Hlad)

"One of the distinguishing characteristics of a classically educated and cultured individual is his love and deep appreciation of great music. The ability to play great music is an added benefit that brings lifelong satisfaction and enjoyment. I know of no one more able to impart this wonderful gift than Mr. Cech. As a youngster I had the privilege to study with him for several years.

Unfortunately, because of school, work and other distractions, I foolishly stopped playing the piano. You can imagine how delighted I was when, after not touching the instrument for over 35 years, I was able to regain my technique after a few months of diligent practice--unequivocal proof that Mr. Cech's methods work." (Clifford Kotchka)