What Will My Child Learn?

Start playing songs by the second lesson
Able to sight read notes within the first year
Confidently understand all 24 key signatures
Will play through well known classical pieces

At Rae of Sunshine Music, we pair our curriculum with the Suzuki Method — a nurturing approach that views music as a language. Developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, this method emphasizes:

Learning by listening and imitation
Memorization and repetition
A natural, expressive approach to technique
Students learn to play with confidence and joy while building discipline and focus.

What to Expect

Teacher drives to your home every week for lessons (30 minutes)
Listen to recordings every day
Practice lesson repertoire 5 times per week
Regularly play through music portfolio
Perform in our 2 recitals each year

What do Students Need to get started?

We welcome beginners and intermediate learners of all ages (children 5+ and adults)! To help students thrive, we ask that they:

Have access to an instrument for regular practice (this is key for progress!).
Come ready to engage with their teacher’s guidance in a supportive environment.
Be able to focus comfortably in short, 15-minute lesson segments (we build stamina together over time!).

Our lessons are designed to meet students where they are – all we require is a little curiosity and excitement to learn!

Ready to get started? Choose your location below :

About the Owner

Renae grew up in a challenging environment and found solace in music, which served as an escape from her difficult reality. Not only did music provide her with a mental refuge, but it also helped her navigate the world and acquire essential life skills that she might not have learned elsewhere. After 15 years of professional training with various instructors, Renae began teaching piano and violin to a handful of students during her college years. With 15 years of teaching experience, she has successfully guided over 200 students, several have chosen to pursue a career in music. The inspiration for launching Rae of Sunshine Music stemmed from her extensive experience working in other studios and her commitment to addressing the needs of the families she served.

Why Multiple Locations?

You may be curious about why we serve two distinct regions of our state. Renae was born and raised in the greater Peoria and Henry County areas, which is why she chose to establish Rae of Sunshine Music in her hometown. This community holds a special place in her heart, especially as many local schools are reducing their music and art programs. Renae aims to provide musical opportunities and invest in children who can really benefit from the transformative power of music.

During the pandemic, Renae relocated from Peoria to the Chicago West Suburbs. She decided to expand the business in the suburbs, with the vision of developing both locations and ultimately fostering a connection between them over time.

_{Rae of Sunshine Music offers music lessons in: Kewanee Galva Neponset Osceola Elmira Bradford Wyoming Germantown Hills La Fox Sugar Grove Aurora North Aurora Batavia Geneva Montgomery Oswego St Charles Naperville South Elgin Wayne West Chicago}

Helping children discover confidence and creativity through piano, violin and viola — with fun, personalized instruction from a passionate teacher who cares.

We specialize in 1:1 instruction for ages 5+, using our RAE curriculum with the proven Suzuki method to develop musicianship, discipline, and joy in every student.