About Me
Dr. Lubov Laura De Valois is a Russian born concert pianist, soprano opera singer and a distinguished piano and vocal teacher. She has two Masters Degrees from St. Petersburg conservatory, one in music performance and the other is in pedagogical education with a specialization in child psychology and music. She also has a PhD degree in music history, theory, and composition from the Russian Institute of Art History. In addition to her education, she has a vast amount of professional experience in teaching and performing in both Europe and the US.
Dr. Laura was born in St. Petersburg, Russia. She started studying piano from the age of three at the prestigious St. Petersburg Conservatory Pre-college division for the gifted. This is an internationally recognized music school for the young and talented prodigies. Lessons in piano, ear training, music theory, composition and singing were held 6 days per week and required 3 – 6 hours of daily practice.
Dr. Laura started her stage performance at the tender age of four and won first prize in Prague at the age of seven, won first prize in Poland’s Chopin competition. She went on to study music and graduated from the finest music school, conservatory and university. Her performance career took her to many countries and performed with several of the best orchestras around the world. She also performed many solo piano recitals and sang opera in the finest European theatres. In addition, Dr. Laura was also the solo pianist for St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra in Russian for three years.
Besides performing, Dr. Laura loved the creative process of composing. This passion started at the age of five, and she has written many original compositions, recorded CDs and published books with her own music. While in the conservatory, she studied with two greatest Russian composers Sololov and Banecich. She also took private lessons with Dunaevsky, who is a famous soviet composer. Dr. Laura was a member of the house of St. Peterburg’s composer and won a scholarship that took her to Florence Italy during her PhD study. She went on to compose music for theater, children choirs, and taught others how to compose and improvise.
In 1999, she moved to the USA and taught college level piano, voice, music history and music appreciation courses around the Western Illinois area. At the same time, Dr. Laura started her own private studio “Valois Academy of Music and Performance Art”, teaching students to play classical piano and voice singing in Bel Canto style.
For more than three decades, she has taught piano, voice, music history, theory and composition. She gives her heart and soul into teaching and it is her greatest joy to watch her students flourish into a performing artist.
Never skip a day of practice! Practice on the days you eat.
- Dr. Laura
Academy Overview
Valois academy of music for performance art is dedicated to the teaching of piano and vocal training from young beginner to advanced performer. The overall goal is to not only play or sing the correct note but rather be able to analyze and perform with understanding and artistry.
Piano
Weekly Piano lessons with individualized lesson plans to develop technique, theory, sight-reading, musicality and performance skills
Voice
Weekly voice lessons to develop health techniques such as breathing, posture, vowel pronunciation, pitch accuracy and dynamic range
Studio
Best in class Steinway grand piano and digital piano for recording and playback
Recital
It is a big holiday for kids to play their pieces with pride and joy!
Online and Master Classes
Online sessions and master classes are now offered
Competition and Exam
Local, regional and national competitions.
ABRSM exams are encouraged for advanced students
Piano
Beginning students master basic piano skills with various method books. Intermediate and advanced students learn pieces by composers representing each of the four style periods of music history: Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary. These composers include Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, Chopin, Liszt, Rachmaninoff, Kabalevsky, and Bartók, etc.
Each student will have an individual plan assigned with a variety of music designed to develop technique, theory, sight-reading, musical interpretation and performance skills. Music history and composition literacy are always incorporated in the lesson plan to increase student’s general music knowledge and promote music appreciation.
With proper teaching techniques and correct hand position starting from day one, students can play classical music in just few month and reach intermediate level after 2 years and senior level in 3 to 4 years and playing at virtuoso level by 6 years.
Voice
Through a variety of vocal exercises and practices routines, my students sing in tune with beautiful head voice and clarity. My goal is to take the unique sound of your voice and add to it and enhance it.
Studio
For online lessons, I use multiple HD cameras connected to computer and TV monitor. I also use external microphone and speakers for excellent sound quality. As needed I also do video recording of the challenge spots to help my students to practice at home.
Recital
Why is it important to do recitals? It not only helps for the students to show the result of their semester practice, but also helps to feel “stage presence”, work on stage fright feelings and get used to playing in public.
Online and Master Classes
For master class students, this is a great opportunity to learn from the best. With online sessions, I was able to open the studio to a greater audience around the world. Whether you are preparing for a Piano competition, performance or vocal audition, I can help and take your performance to the next level. In a typical master class, student would play a polished piece and I will identify areas of improvement and show them how they can work and what to do to make it even better. Excellence performance comes from understanding of the music and composer’s original intent. With my years of performance and composition training, I can help students in realizing this connection and translates into their performance. Contact us from the web form and we can get started.
Competition and Exam
Why choose Valois Academy?
"Rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul." - Plato
Do you want a teacher who can share their passion for music and the piano, and kindle it within you or your child? Do you want a professor who will make lessons fun and interesting at the same time?.
These are the keys to finding the right instructor, and this is exactly what I offer you. All these things make my lessons great, for I love to teach; in fact I am sure it is my life purpose.
I want to introduce you to the wonderful world of music. I want you to improve! In fact, I guarantee, whether you are 5 or 70, you WILL improve!!! You will see great results within a month or less!
We will work hard, but have fun in the process. Who knows, perhaps you or your child will one day become one of our nation's greatest, sing on Broadway or play in an Orchestra!
Students Taught
Student Competitions
Student Awards and Recognitions
Years of Teaching
Let's get connected!
This could be a great chance for you, your child, or maybe just someone you know. For private lessons feel free contact me at lauramusicschool2440@gmail.com, or give me a call at 630-800-8439 for information or to schedule a private lesson.
Sonata by Mozart K 330 in C major
Vicky is my piano student. She played today on our winter recital and gave me chills! She put so much passion and elegance in her performance and so much grace! ❤️
Sonatina in F major by Anton Diabelli, op 168, No. 1
Shawn, 7, is my piano student. I teach him only for 1.5 year. Very talented boy! He feels passions in music.
The Queen Of the Night by W.A. Mozart
Davin, 14, is my voice student.
Les Sauvages by Jean-Philippe Rameau
Finally, we got the final tempo on Les Sauvages by Rameau. Was very hard to do it with online lessons. My 10 y old piano student, only 1.5 yrs of piano study. I was happy for her. She is a hard working girl to get to this result so fast! The video was made from her home as our online recital. We still have "stay at home order" and study piano online.
To hear some of Dr. Laura's own original work, here are few videos.
Magnolias under the snow- my coronavirus escape
This is my original composition. The lyrics and music composed and performed by Lubov Laura De Valois, May 17, 2020. The song was composed on the real story. I had a magnolia tree under my window blooming in May, but suddenly we got a snow storm, and magnolia’s petals were falling under the heavy snow, as parts of my heart. And I thought to compose this song, using Magnolia under the snow as a metaphor to what is going on right now in the world with Covid-19, life never will be the same...and I composed the lyrics how I dream every night to do an escape from this cold and unappreciative World, but all boarders are closed now....and I am stuck... In the end I am singing “ why all dreams are usually finishing with pain”... hope everyone who are struggling with lost and frustration can share my feelings that I put deeply into the music and the words.
Dream: An original composition by Dr. Lubov
Dreams. or our thoughts. Sometimes they are peaceful and calm; sometimes are dark, gloomy, and rush like clouds. We can be relaxed and we can become inflamed. I tried to put it into my music and depict the sound of our minds, hearts and souls.
Spring, Thaw: Another original composition by Dr. Lubov
This is my original composition from 2001, "The Spring, Thaw". I like to compose the program music and I always depict a picture in my music. I see the early Spring, with a lot of ice; and rivers start moving when ice is thawing. Wind, rain, water runs from the hills coming to the rivers. There is flood and all fields, roads, and banks cover with water. The nature is waking up after long winter. Maybe somebodys heart starts waking up too and feels the strong passions, movements, and a lot of thoughts are running though the mind.
Events
Watch live masterclass in session with Dr. Laura
Topic: The Path from Middle C to VirtuosityWhen: August 11, 2020 8:00pm - 9:00pm CST
Detailed event and live session link can be found here.
Testimonials
Bashlova Family
Music Student
"Dr. Lubov Laura De Valois has been teaching my three kids for a few years before we moved to Texas. In each of these years of studying, they improved in technique, knowledge of theory, musical hearing and sense. Lubov is a perfect teacher - experienced, careful, patient, inspirational. She really knows how to get kids motivated. Her ways of teaching are very effective and creative, it has kept my children’s interest in music and made them better all-around persons. Their piano and voice lessons with Lubov were some of their best memories growing up. We really appreciate everything that she has done for us. I would highly recommend her as a teacher."
Allie Schultz
Voice Student
"I took voice lessons with Dr. Lubov all throughout middle school and high school. Now, as a grown woman, I consider those lessons to one of the most formative experiences of my life. Not many experts can teach. Lubov is the rare exception. I still remember her tips for breath control and head singing to this day. Between her skill and teaching ability, she brings more to her lessons than just technique. Each week I learned little more about music history, music theory, and even the anatomy of singing. It’s the reason her students do so well, so young. More importantly, Lubov makes music personal. She tailors each lesson to her student’s voice, goals, and personality. That being said, she goes above and beyond to know who her students are as people. I was always incredibly touched by the thought she put into teaching me. This attention to detail set me up for success every time I approached a new piece. Lubov taught me how to sing—yes—but she also taught me about creativity, responsibility, and empathy. I am incredibly thankful for having her as both a role model and a friend."
Svetlana Ostrovskaya
Mother of Anton 12, and Anna, 5
"Anton have decided to become opera singer after he started to take Lubov's (Laura) voice lessons 2 years ago when he was 10 years old. During his study with Lubov he participated in many events where he was singing and many people were impressed by his voice, saying he has a natural talent. I think that 80% of his accomplishments belong to Lubov's hard work with him. I also bring my 5 years old Anna to Lubov that teaches her piano - it is not easy to find a teacher who can start teaching kids at such an early age and Anna loves her piano lessons. We moved to another area and come to Lubov from Prospect Heights, which is about 1 hour away from Aurora, but we believe that her lessons are worth our longer commute time."
Helen Tang
Mother of Cynthia
"Before my daughter Cynthia became Miss Lubov’s piano student, she played piano with me at home for almost a year. I taught her ABC knowledge like notes and hand positions. I knew she progressed slowly with me, but I was pretty sure I wouldn’t set her up with a teacher that is not right for her. A lot of time and effort was spent to find a right piano teacher, until we met Miss Lubov. She is such an example of perfect combination of passion and techniques. Being an academically educated musician, she has a lot of valuable things to offer to students: history and theory of music, playing skills and attitude to music. She not only teaches Cynthia how to play the instrument correctly with hands, but also teaches her how to understand music with heart and soul. Cynthia has learned techniques and also gradually learned to ENJOY music. I have taught Cynthia for about a year myself, and I know how difficult it is to get a 5-year-old learn and keep her interested in the meantime. But Miss Lubov is so great with kids. She knows how to encourage kids and how to dig out student’s latent capabilities. When Cynthia first started, she could put 2 hands together but played simple kid’s songs. Within a month or so, she was on a classical Sonatina, with a lot better hand position. It was such a progress with leap and both my husband and I were amazed! Definitely Miss Lubov should take the credit! Cynthia has taken piano lessons from Miss Lubov for about 2 years. As a witness of her improvement, I feel so fortunate that we found Miss Lubov. Once when I heard my 7-year-old say “Miss Lubov is the best piano teacher in the history of the world”, I knew her experience with Miss Lubov will be a precious part in her life."
Patti Bianchi
Oswego, IL
"Lubov’s impressive music education, combined with her background in child psychology, makes her the ideal piano and voice coach for all ages. Lubov develops a customized plan for each of her students – tailored to fit their individual skill sets and learning style – and executes it with a friendly and positive approach. Lubov has been teaching my two sons (ages 7 and 9) piano for over four years now. She is a passionate teacher that sets high standards for her students. I especially admire the way she is able to explain even the most difficult piano techniques with simple analogies that a child can easily understand. Under Lubov’s guidance, my boys have acquired the skills and confidence to perform at recitals and school events, and at a level above and beyond their peers. Lubov’s love and enthusiasm for music has even inspired my children to take an interest in singing this year, and they have already performed their first solos in public. I highly recommend Lubov – she is hands down the best music teacher in the Fox Valley area!"
Tracy Kwong
Naperville, IL
"My two kids who are 10 and 8 years old have been taking piano lesson with Ms. Lubov De Valois for the past 4 years. Ms. Lubov DeValois is a very dedicated teacher who is serious about teaching her students on musicianship and techniques. She is knowledgeable and introduces her students to a wide range of composers and music. She is patient and has a love for children. My kids really enjoy having her as their piano teacher."
Kris Hollarbush
Mother of Connor, 7
"De Valois has been teaching Connor (7years old) and I for two years. She is an outstanding instructor with many great qualities. My son and I feel her greatest quality is that of compassion. She truly cares for the growth in musical knowledge in each one of her students."
Michael Fedorov
Father of Kate, 7
"We are very happy with our daughter Kate’s piano instructor, Lubov de Valois, and highly recommend her as a talented, passionate and friendly music teacher. Since Kate started piano lessons (February 2008, at zero level), she advanced very noticeably. Furthermore, our daughter started demonstrating more achievement in other disciplines. Kate developed patience and went ahead in school subjects… One example of better results that we believe to have been influenced by music lessons is the recent ISAT score where Kate advanced to 98th percentile. With this very positive experience, we plan to continue piano lessons for Kate and start engaging our younger children, too."
Roberta Wojcik
Waterman, IL
"In February of this year (2008) I had joined our church choir. I soon realized that it would be very beneficial for me to take some voice lessons. After browsing the internet I chose to send Laura an email inquiring about her lessons. The thing that attracted me was that she said whether you are 5 or 70 you will "improve. She responded quickly to my email and then we spoke on the phone. I found myself feeling very comfortable with her and I set up my first voice lesson for that same week. I had never had a voice lesson in my life until this year and I do not read music. I took lessons from February through May at which time I had to discontinue due to life's circumstances. In three months I not only improved, but I learned so much from her. She is an outstanding teacher and has such a passion for music and what she does. She has been blessed with a beautiful gift that she chooses to share with each of us. In addition, she is a very hard worker and gives her total self to each student and each lesson that she teaches. She believes in us, even if we do not believe in ourselves. As time went on Laura and I have become very good friends. I believe that nothing is a coincidence. I could have chosen anyone off the internet and I was drawn to Laura. She was sincere, compassionate and cares about each and everyone of her students. Her goal is to give you all that she can so you can learn and improve and take your desires for music to whatever level you choose. Even though Laura and I do not see each other often we have become a great support to one another. I value and treasure our friendship. I feel God has blessed us both by having us meet. She is a wonderful person and a gifted teacher and I am so grateful she is a part of my life! I love music whether singing or listening and my plan is to someday return to taking lessons and Laura will always be my instructor!"
Victor and Tracy
Parents of students age 4 and 6
"We are very grateful to have found Laura as the piano teacher for our 6-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter after a long exhaustive search. With only a few lessons, we noticed marked improvement in my son’s technique and sight-reading skills. With Laura’s help, our daughter has accomplished much more than we thought would be possible for a young child. Because of Laura’s pedagogical training, she is very good at identifying problem areas and very effective in correcting them with her unique methods. She is very good to work with and she is genuinely committed to our kids’ musical success. We cannot be more pleased with our choice of our piano teacher."
Val
Parent
"Luba is a rare combination of piano virtuoso and opera diva. I've been always amazed by her ability to understand a piece from first sight. Even the best musicians first need to read what to play and later think about how to play it. Luba gets the heartbeat and the pulse of the piece right away. She always has some picture or story in her mind for each piece. I guess here her opera talent helps a lot. After all the opera is a visualized music or musicized story depends on how you look at it. The vocal training gives Luba yet another dimension in her understanding of music. She hears voices! And instruments. For Luba there is no such thing as solo piano music. Behind even the simplest piano piece she hears a complex harmony of instruments and choir voices that help her figure out the dynamics and the internal anatomy of the piece. Before Luba we have had six piano teachers for about two years period. Simon is a fast growing (musically) young man and many teachers found it difficult to handle the challenges of having an ambitious "prodigy"-like student. I would not say Luba was ready for him either, but she is a quick learner and eventually found the right "wax". I feel Simon learns from her things that he cannot learn anywhere else. Ability to see pictures and story behind the music, to hear the voices and hidden instruments, to see every piece as a multidimensional structure is exactly what makes a good musician exceptional. After working with Luba for about a half year Simon applied and was accepted in the advanced division of the Tuition Free Conservatory at the Merit School of Music, Chicago. The school offers private lessons at discounted rates but we decided to keep Luba as our main private teacher, because ... well because of all the qualities mentioned above."
Policy
This policy has evolved from many years of my private teaching experience as well as other piano studios throughout United States. It aims to benefit your child musical study every minute of every lesson.
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Lesson and Attendance
Weekly recurring private lessons are prearranged and especially reserved for each student during the school year. A limited number of absence and make-up lessons are allowed during the school year. Make-up lessons are not guaranteed, it will only be arranged when there is a mutual time available. During the summer, a minimum of eight lessons are required within June, July and Aug. For current enrolled students, here is the link to the Absence and Make-up form.
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Tuition
Monthly tuition is due in advance, no later than the first week of the month. The total amount is based on the hourly rate and number of classes per month. A late fee of $10 will be charged if the payment was not received within the first week of the month.
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Instrument and Home Practice
Student must have an acoustic piano either upright or grand, no electric piano as the proper hand technique will not be accomplished. Practice assignments will be written in an assignment notebook; students are to practice the entire assignment daily and record the practice time daily in the notebook. A minimum of 60 minutes practice time is recommended for students who are 6 years and older.
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Teacher and Parent Conference
Conferences between the instructor and the parents will be conducted multiple times during the year, usually after each recital or competition. This time is to mutually define the student’s learning goals and objectives for the year and as well to discuss progress and next steps.
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Termination Policy
In the event a student desires to discontinue piano lessons, four weeks advance notice is requested. Notice should be given in writing via email in addition to verbal notification. Lessons can also be terminated at the discretion of the teacher for any reasons such as lack of practice, frequent absences, frequent makeup requests, behavioral problems, delinquency in payments, or failure to abide by the policy.