Meet Alex Mayer of Lake Forest

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Mayer.

Hi Alex, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Originally from the Chicago area, I began my musical journey at seven years old when my parents enrolled me in piano lessons. They recognized the importance of music education, and I quickly developed a love for learning and performing. Over time, I also picked up the saxophone and joined both the symphonic and marching bands, eventually becoming drum major and conducting the ensemble throughout high school.

Driven by a deep passion for music, I dedicated countless hours to studying piano and set my sights on being accepted into a music conservatory—despite the growing expense of lessons. During that time, I had the privilege of studying under Paulette, an incredible teacher from the Chicagoland area who had even trained her son to attend The Juilliard School. Her kindness, skill, and encouragement inspired me to give back by becoming a supportive and motivating teacher myself.

My hard work led me to become a finalist in several piano competitions and to expand into jazz piano as well. Ultimately, I was accepted into the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music on both music and leadership scholarships.
Today, I’m based in Orange County, where I offer private piano lessons. I travel to my students’ homes to provide flexibility and convenience—especially for busy working parents.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges was the financial burden of pursuing music—private lessons, competitions, and conservatory preparation all add up quickly. There were also emotional hurdles along the way. I still remember performing at the Chopin Youth Piano Competition and having a major memory slip on stage. It was devastating at the time, but experiences like that taught me resilience. I learned to keep pressing forward, to focus on growth instead of perfection, and to use setbacks as motivation to improve.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in both classical and jazz piano—something that sets me apart, as most pianists are formally trained in only one style. My background allows me to move fluidly between genres and to blend elements of classical, jazz, R&B, pop, film music, and oldies into my playing and teaching. I love the balance between structure and spontaneity—being able to interpret intricate classical pieces while also improvising freely.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to find success in several piano competitions, including being a two-time finalist in the Chopin Youth Piano Competition. In addition to performing, I’m passionate about composition. My original piece “Freiheit” earned 1st Place out of 400 entries in the 2017 Gershanov Family Arts & Writing Contest at the Illinois Holocaust Museum.

I’ve also had the privilege of performing with Mike Eldred, a former Broadway singer from Les Misérables. In California, I’ve performed at notable venues such as the Queen Mary in Long Beach and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. I also perform at Senior Living Communities regularly and love giving back.

What I’m most proud of is being able to share music in a way that inspires and connects with others—whether through performing, composing, or teaching. My goal is always to make music approachable, creative, and deeply expressive for both myself and my students.

Any big plans?
Looking ahead, I plan to focus on developing my online presence and creating more unique, meaningful content. I love writing music and hope to build a dedicated space where people can listen to calming, reflective pieces—music designed to help others unwind and find peace at the end of the day.

I’ve also been exploring the idea of launching a project that supports music programs and nonprofit organizations by helping them raise funds and awareness through music. Giving back has always been an important part of my life, and I have a big heart for community service. In fact, I was honored to receive two U.S. Congressional Awards for community service in 2016.

Overall, my goal is to continue growing as a musician, educator, and creator—using music not only as an art form but as a way to bring comfort, inspiration, and positive change to others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alexmayermusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmayermusiclive/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexmayermusic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexMayermusic