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 online 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 virtual piano lessons, Colburn piano students are encouraged to attend 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

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

Group piano classes are offered to students ages 6–12 and are ideal for absolute beginners with no prior experience. Due to its popularity, spaces are very limited. Please contact the Community School Registration Office at cspa@colburnschool.edu to be placed on a waiting list.

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 06/17 - 07/22 Sa 11:15 am - 12:00 pm $260.00
Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Sam Grodin 5yr - 6yr 10mo 06/17 - 07/22 Sa 01:15 pm - 02:00 pm $260.00

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. 

Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Sam Grodin 6yr - 10yr 06/17 - 07/22 Sa 09:45 am - 10:30 am $260.00

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. 

Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Sam Grodin 6yr - 10yr 06/17 - 07/22 Sa 10:30 am - 11:15 am $260.00

Ensembles

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.

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Colburn’s Adult Jazz Workshops consist of musicians who are proficient on their instruments and have some experience in jazz studies. We will explore the jazz genre through active listening, discussion, and application of specific elements of jazz performance. All group members are encouraged to contribute to exchange of ideas and apply concepts by recording themselves to share with the class. New students welcome, please contact instructor Liz Kinnon for more information at ekinnon@colburnschool.edu

Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Liz Kinnon 18yr - 999yr 06/04 - 07/09 Su 12:30 pm - 02:45 pm $218.00
Instructor Ages Dates Days Times Fees
Liz Kinnon 18yr - 999yr 06/04 - 07/09 Su 03:15 pm - 05:30 pm $218.00

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 2022–23 Honors Piano Seminar is scheduled for 6–9 pm on the following dates:

  • October 8: Presentation on “Musical Musings” and Master Class with Fabio Bidini (Colburn Community School of Performing Arts, Academy, and Conservatory)
  • November 19: Presentation on “Historical Instrument” with Jeff Lavner and Master Class with Andrew Park (Azusa Pacific University)
  • February 25: Presentation on “Piano Music of Messiaen” and Master Class with Thomas Lymenstull (Interlochen Arts Academy)
  • March 18: Presentation on “Becoming A Church Musician” with Miji Kim (Colburn Community School of Performing Arts) and Master Class with Inna Falliks (University of California, Los Angeles)
  • May 6: Student Showcase Recital

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.