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 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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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. .
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.
For students seeking performance experience, the Community School offers a variety of ensembles to build performance technique, collaboration, and a sense of community with other players.
The Ed and Mari Edelman Chamber Music Institute offers one of the most comprehensive and intense pre-college level chamber music learning experiences of any music school in North America. Students are coached weekly by members of Colburn’s acclaimed faculty.
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The Community School has several instrumental ensembles, including small combos and a Big Band each devoted to the performance of jazz repertoire and the development of musical concepts, improvisations, and compositions.
Colburn’s Adult Jazz Workshops consist of musicians who are proficient on their instruments and experienced in jazz studies. Various styles of jazz repertoire are explored and learned aurally along with discussion of theory and approaches to improvisation. This ensemble is a great opportunity to grow individually and as a cohesive unit in an encouraging, challenging environment. All instruments, including strings and vocalists, are welcome.
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 2023–24 Honors Piano Seminar is scheduled for 6–9 pm on the following dates:
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.