Piano

Piano student and teacher

We believe using classical music as the basis for piano lessons provides students a strong foundation upon which they can build musicianship. We offer private piano lessons to students from age five to adults. Auditions are held three times a year, typically in August, January, and June; however, appointments may be made throughout the year. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced.

At every level, performance is emphasized. In addition to private piano lessons, piano students are encouraged to attend and participate in studio classes, monthly departmental workshops, and school-wide recitals, all of which allow students to exercise performance skills.

Advanced students may have the opportunity to participate in the Ed and Mari Edelman Chamber Music Institute.

Private Piano Lessons

Private lessons by our accomplished faculty offer students focused instruction so they remain challenged and continuously progressing. Lessons may vary in duration based on an instructor’s determination. Of course, practicing newly acquired skills is mandatory for future success. Therefore, we ask all piano students to secure access to an acoustic piano (minimum 66 keys).

If you’re interested in enrolling in piano lessons, please fill out our online inquiry form. Space is limited.

Group Piano

The Group Piano program offers a range of classes for beginner-level students ages 5–12. In this program, students can embark on their piano studies by learning about the fundamentals of technique and developing their musical literacy in a supportive group setting. Please note that space in this program is limited. Please contact the Community School Registration Office at cspa@colburnschool.edu to be placed on a waiting list.

Group piano classes are ideal for the absolute beginner with no prior experience. Students should have access to a piano or keyboard at home.   

Please contact the instructor at sgrodin@colburnschool.edu prior to enrolling. 

Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Sam Grodin 5yr - 6yr 08/24 - 05/10 Sa 01:15 pm - 02:00 pm $1235.00

Group piano Beginning I summer session is a continuation of the 2022-23 curriculum. Students should have access to a piano or keyboard at home.

Please contact the instructor at sgrodin@colburnschool.edu prior to enrolling. 

Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Sam Grodin 6yr - 10yr 08/24 - 05/10 Sa 11:15 am - 12:00 pm $1235.00

Beginning II registrants should have taken at least one semester of piano classes/lessons. Students should have access to a piano or keyboard at home.

Please contact the instructor at sgrodin@colburnschool.edu prior to enrolling. 

Group piano Intermediate I registrants should have at least 1 year of piano classes/lessons. Students should have access to a piano or keyboard at home. .  

Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Sam Grodin 7yr - 12yr 08/24 - 05/10 Sa 09:45 am - 10:30 am $1235.00

Group piano Intermediate II registrants should have at least 1.5 year of piano classes/lessons. Students should have access to a piano or keyboard at home.

Please contact the instructor at sgrodin@colburnschool.edu prior to enrolling. 

This is a class for serious high school musicians (vocalists and instrumentalists) who are not pianists. Students will learn basic piano technique and functional skills. Students must be able to read music prior to enrolling and have at least 2-3 years of rigorous musical training. 

 

This class will be highly beneficial for students who want to go on to major in music, as keyboard skills are a requirement at all major universities and conservatories.  

Honors Piano Seminar

The Honors Piano Seminar is a unique combination of lectures and master classes designed to help students develop an individual style and personality in performances. The seminar will feature presentations and master classes with world renowned pedagogues. Participating students must be age 13 and up.

The 2024–25 Honors Piano Seminar is scheduled for 6–9 pm on the following dates:

  • October 26:
    • Presenter: Annie Bosler “Applying to Music Schools”
    • Master Teacher: Kevin FitzGerald, USC
  • February 8:
    • Presenter: Blair McMillen “Boost Your Repertoire: Piano Music That Works”
    • Master Teacher: Blair McMillen, Bard, Mannes
  • March 8:
    • Presenter: Janice Ying “Wellness and Injury Prevention”
    • Master Teacher: TBD
  • April 26:
    • Presenter: Sam Grodin “Tone Production”
    • Master Teacher: Dmitry Rachmanov, Cal State Northridge
  • May 24:
    • Student Showcase Recital
    • Presider: Teresa de Jong Pombo

Registration does not guarantee actual participation as a performer in the master classes. All students must be pre-approved to enroll by Mrs. de Jong Pombo. Please contact instructor prior to enrollment at tdejongpombo@colburnschool.edu.