Emi Murata (Piano), MM, NCTM has taught Class Piano, Keyboard Kapers and offered private instruction at the College of DuPage since 1991. She enjoys teaching a diverse population, including children as young as age 3, college majors, as well as retirees. Ms. Murata focuses on her students unique and individual needs, whether they are taking lessons for leisure, for more serious study, or choosing a career in music. Competition winners, students who have limited time to practice, as well as those who have specific goals or special needs, have found success in her studio. Ms. Murata believes that good communication is a major key to success and works towards giving her students experience in a variety of musical styles and genres.
Over 39 years experience teaching piano, theory, sight singing and ear training to all ages and abilities, Ms. Murata served on the faculty in institutions such as Columbia College, College of DuPage, and Sherwood Conservatory. Equally adept at instructing beginner through college levels, Ms. Murata also has a private studio in Oak Park, and is an experienced clinician, has published articles, and enjoys presenting master classes throughout Illinois. An avid spokesperson on the benefits of ensemble playing, her students have performed in this capacity at state and national levels.
Ms. Murata made her debut at age sixteen as concerto soloist with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra. She earned her B.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science, with distinction in Music from University of Illinois at Chicago, and received her Masters of Music in Piano Performance at University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. In addition to performing as a soloist, Ms. Murata is a member of the Murata Piano Trio, Piano à la Quartette and co-organizes the Glorious Grands: A Piano Extravaganza!!!, an 8 Steinway grand piano concert held here at COD’s McAninch Arts Center, and at Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Symphony Center for their Keys To The City Piano Festival.
Emi Murata is an active member of several performing and educational organizations. Former president of both Musicians Club of Women and Salt Creek Music Teachers Association (awarded Music Teachers National Association’s 2011 Local Association of the Year), she was voted Member of the Year by her colleagues at Chicago Area Music Teachers Association as well as Salt Creek Music Teachers Association, and was chosen to be a 2014 MTNA Foundation Fellow, a distinction held only by two other SCMTA members in the Foundation’s 20 year history.
Emi’s passion for teaching is evident, as her students travel from as far as Michigan to study with her, and stay active in her studio for many years. Emi is looking forward to working with you and your individual learning style and catering to your unique needs.