Piano Lessons in Palo Alto, CA

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Our Approach

Piano Lessons for All Ages & Musical Styles

We believe every student is unique and different in their own way. Therefore, why should lessons be any different? Each piano lesson is tailored to the individual student’s specific interests and needs.

While focusing on foundational elements such as proper technique, reading music, finger position and more. Our teachers also help students learn songs they are familiar with. This includes movie theme music, popular songs on the radio, their favorite classical artist etc. This helps keep students motivated and pushing further to learn each week.

In-studio or in-home piano lessons available.

Our Approach to Piano at Melody Academy of Music

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Piano Lessons Should Be Fun!

We know that an interest in learning piano may be what first brings you into our school – but having fun is what keeps you coming back! Here at Melody Academy of Music, our goal is for every student to LOVE their music lessons as they embark on a rewarding journey of progress and discovery. We put the “fun” in fundamentals!

Our knowledgeable staff blends a high standard of music education with a creative, student-focused approach that gives students space to discover and nurture their passion for music and the piano. Whether it’s your first time at the keys or you’re a seasoned pianist, our teachers are ready to help you progress quickly toward your goals – while having fun along the way.

We Emphasize Healthy Technique

Healthy technique is critical to lifelong enjoyment of the piano. Our first priority is teaching strong fundamentals, including hand, wrist and arm technique, bench position, and pedaling. We believe that full-body instruction is essential to musicianship and safeguards students from injury.

Once the fundamentals are in place, you and your teacher can craft the story you want your music to tell. Our qualified teachers will assist you in developing musicianship and exploring nuance through dynamics, pausing, phrasing, and varying tempos. Learn with us as we infuse elements of music theory and music history into our well-rounded approach to fostering musical excellence.

We Care About Your Musical Interests

There is no one-size-fits-all method of piano instruction. Regardless of ability or prior experience, our teachers take an individualized approach to each of our students – underpinned by detailed individual assessments, a personalized learning plan, and one-on-one guidance throughout your musical journey.

While fundamentals and technique are essential, our ultimate goal is to equip students to begin exploring their own personal musical style and interests. Your teacher will work with you to understand where you want to go, and craft a unique plan to get you there. Whether your style is classical or pop (or anything in between), Melody Academy of Music helps students excel in their craft while encouraging the occasional step outside the comfort zone to try something new.

Our Piano Teachers:

Paola Rapaj

Paola Rapaj

Piano

Paola Rapaj Kraja, who holds both a M.M. and M.Ed., is a seasoned pianist with over 20 years of experience in the realm of piano study. She earned dual master’s degrees from Charles University and the Prague Conservatory, majoring in piano performance and education.

Yaqing Wang

Yaqing Wang

Piano

Yaqing has dedicated the last 20 years to classical piano training, recently under the guidance of Dr. Omri Shimron at Cal State East Bay. Beginning her musical journey at five, she initially focused on piano before exploring other instruments. 

Parker Ohara

Parker Ohara

Piano, Guitar & Ukulele

Parker, a native of the Bay Area, hails from San Jose with a deep-rooted passion for music. Boasting over a decade of expertise, Parker is a seasoned guitar and piano instructor committed to empowering students with the essential skills for musical excellence. 

Ray Lin

Ray Lin

Cello, Piano, Guitar, Ukulele, Bass

Ray Lin has studied Cello and Composition at New York University, the Colburn School and New England Conservatory. He has studied with esteemed artists such as Clive Greensmith, Mark Churchill, and David Fulmer. 

Sanjana Mantha

Sanjana Mantha

Piano, flute

Growing up, Sanjana watched her cousins play the piano and was inspired by them to learn herself. She started taking lessons when she was 7 and continued to expand her musical skills in middle school when she started playing the flute and french horn. 

Ashley

Ashley

Piano

Ashley Chen graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance under the instruction of Dr. David Kaplan.

Jay Gubbi

Jay Gubbi

Sax, Piano, Guitar

Jay is a Bay Area local who studied music both in and out of school. Once introduced to the recorder, his passion for music grew through studying and playing the clarinet, saxophone, guitar, and piano.

We Offer Simple Pricing to Fit Your Schedule & Budget

Weekly Lessons

30 min

$215

per month

Great for learning the basics and building foundations.

Please note that trial lessons are $50 and only available for private lessons.

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Weekly Lessons

45 min

$310

per month

Great for the budding master.

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Weekly Lessons

60 min

$400

per month

Longer sessions, great for motivated musicians.

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“My older child has been with Melody Academy of Music over 6 years, and younger one started learning piano here two years ago. We have been very happy with our experiences here. Teachers are very professional and have passion in music. ”

— Jie Chen, Parent

What you can expect

Tell us about your musical goals.

Match with one of our expert instructors.

Play music! Parents get progress reports.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What Is the Best Age to Learn Piano?

The minimum age we recommend a student start piano lessons at Melody Academy of Music is 5 years old. For younger students, we recommend an intro to the music program. Starting age will largely depend on the student when it comes to piano or keyboard. So, some students may need to wait longer than others to start. Contact us and we can help determine if your child is ready to start!

Why Take Piano Lessons at Melody Academy of Music?

Piano lessons in Melody Academy of Music provide teachers who instruct on a variety of styles from classical to popular music. Whether you want to learn Bach or Alicia Keys, our teachers are happy to help you become the pianist you want to be. Our piano faculty will show you the fundamentals of sight reading, technique and theory, but they will also incorporate your favorite songs into your lessons. You do not have to have a piano at home to take lessons. A simple electronic keyboard with a minimum of 61 keys will suffice for the first 6 months. Our piano teachers have warm personalities and enjoy sharing their love for the piano with you when you take piano lessons in Melody Academy of Music.

How Qualified Are Your Piano Teachers?

All of the teachers at Melody Academy of Music hold university degrees in music and are experts in their field. Our piano faculty have received their musical education from such prestigious institutions all over the country.

Do I Have to Know How to Read Music?

No. Beginners are welcome! Our lesson plans aim to educate, engage and inspire students.

Do I Need a Piano to Start Taking Lessons?

No. You do not need a piano to start piano lessons, however, we do recommend having a digital piano keyboard in your home to practice between lessons. Also, keyboards are much more economical and require less commitment upfront when it comes to ongoing maintenance and moving costs.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

If you’re ready to jump into the world of keyboarding, we are excited to match you with a teacher that can get you started on your musical journey.
Nothing will enable you to progress more effectively than a one-on-one partnership with an inspiring piano professional.

Let us help you explore and build your abilities in a setting that is comfortable for you. You never know how far you can go until you take that first step, so get started today!

Palo Alto Music School Address

4000 Middlefield Rd Room K-6 & V, Palo Alto, CA 94303
(Rooms K-6 & V)

Hours

Monday11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SundayClosed


Start your musical journey today

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