Why Learn Piano?
Piano builds a strong foundation in musical understanding, helping to develop strong listening skills and a keen sense of pitch and rhythm.
Piano visually lays out music theory in an intuitive way. This makes it an excellent starting point in musical education.
Playing the piano improves memory, enhances coordination, and the music patterns promote logical thinking.
A wide range of Piano repertoire lets students learn to express their creativity through music.
Learning a piece, performing at a recital, or mastering a new skill helps students build confidence through achievement.
Focus for Every Stage
| Beginner | Intermediate | Advanced | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Goal | Confidence and joy at the piano | Expressive, fluent playing | Emotional depth and refined polish |
| Technique | Proper posture, hand shape, 5-finger patterns | Scales, arpeggios, and easy studies (Czerny) | Virtuosic etudes (Chopin, Liszt), refined tone control |
| Music Theory | Note names, rhythms, and basic symbols | Key signatures, chord progressions | Harmonic analysis, historical styles (Baroque to Modern) |
| Musicality | Loud/soft contrast, legato vs. staccato | Shaping phrases, basic pedaling | Rubato, advanced pedaling, personal expression |
| Repertoire | Fun method books, folk songs, Disney tunes | Sonatinas (Clementi, Kuhlau), character pieces (Burgmüller, Schumann), and pop/jazz | Major sonatas (Beethoven, Mozart), concertos, major works by Bach, Chopin, Rachmaninoff |
Student Highlights
Daryl
Rachmaninoff "Prelude Op.23 No. 5"
Rachmaninoff "Prelude Op.23 No. 5"
Avril
Chopin "Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2"
Chopin "Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2"
Luke
Yurima "River Flows in You"
Yurima "River Flows in You"
Frequently Asked Questions
Private lessons offer customized instruction, faster progress, and correction of bad habits—none of which apps or group classes can fully provide.
At least as long as their weekly lesson—typically 15–30 minutes a day for beginners. Consistency matters most.
- Set a regular practice time and create a distraction-free environment.
- Offer encouragement and celebrate your child’s progress.
- Sit with your child occasionally and ask them to show you what they’re learning.
- For young beginners, short, frequent sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones.
Yes! For young children (under 7), parent observation is encouraged. Older students may benefit more from independent lessons—we’ll find what works best.
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to reschedule. Late cancellations are forfeited, as the time is reserved exclusively for your child.
It happens! I personalize lessons to keep things fresh and engaging, and we adjust goals when needed to reignite motivation.
We start with fun and familiar songs. As students grow, they explore classical styles, pop, jazz, and more based on their interests.
Yes! Intermediate students are encouraged to join local events like the Sonata & Sonatina Festival to build confidence and performance experience.
Twice a year—winter and spring. Recitals are low-pressure and a great way for students to celebrate their progress.
Student Testimonials
“Lavinia always makes lessons fun and helps me understand hard music. I started learning with her when I was 7, and now I can play pieces I never thought possible. She helped me prepare for my first recital and I felt so proud!”— Emily (11yo), learning since 2021
“I used to be nervous about playing in front of people, but Lavinia encouraged me every week. Since I started lessons with her, I’ve learned to play with more confidence and even won my school’s talent show!”— Jason (14yo), learning since 2019
“Ms. Lavinia explains things in a way that makes sense and always finds music I love. I began lessons with her last year, and now I can read music and play my favorite movie themes. Piano is my favorite part of the week!”— Sophia (10yo), learning since 2024