Piano Lessons in Rochester, MN

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Learn Piano with Us

Whether you aspire to play Bach or Alicia Keys, our dedicated piano instructors will help you become the pianist you want to be. Our faculty will introduce you to the fundamentals of sight-reading, technique and theory, and incorporate your favorite songs into your lessons. You do not need a piano at home to take lessons; a simple full-size electronic keyboard will suffice for the first six months.

Our piano instructors are warm and friendly and get to know each student and parent on a personal level. We work with each individual or parent to craft a lesson plan that fits the student’s unique needs and favorite type of music. Whether you’re playing in local bands, a seven year old taking their first lesson, or a fifty year old returning to the piano after many years, our teachers will share their love for the piano and help you set goals to achieve your musical aspirations.

Our Approach to Piano Lessons

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Piano Lessons Should Be Fun!

We know that an interest in piano may be what first brings you into our school – but having fun is what keeps you coming back! Here at Rochester Music Academy, 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), Rochester Music Academy helps students excel in their craft while encouraging the occasional step outside the comfort zone to try something new.

Our Piano Teachers

Our piano faculty have received their musical education from such prestigious institutions all over the country. Some have toured the US and Europe, and bring over 25 years of professional performance and teaching experience to your lessons.

Brian Hamilton

Brian Hamilton

Piano, Guitar/Bass/Ukulele, Drums, Brass, Woodwinds, Percussion

Brian describes himself as ambitious, easy going, and cooperative. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Instrumental Music Education K-12. His main instrument in college was the tenor saxophone.

Chuck Whitcomb

Chuck Whitcomb

Piano, Clarinet, Saxophone

Chuck holds a B.S. in Music Education and a M.M. specializing in low brass. He is a former church musician, and a member of the Rochester Symphony Chorale. Chuck believes music education is important because it is a gateway to many possibilities.

Vona Murrell

Vona Murrell

Piano

Vona describes herself as friendly, patient, encouraging, and supportive. Her education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Music, English, and Religious Studies, as well as some post-graduate work in Sacred Music.

Catherine Kim

Catherine Kim

Piano

Born in South Korea, my journey led me to the United States following the completion of my undergraduate studies. Subsequently, I embarked on a path that saw me achieving a master’s degree at Indiana University, Bloomington, followed by a doctorate at the University of Minnesota

Rebekah Novinger

Rebekah Novinger

Piano

As a composer in many forms, Rebekah Novinger’s music has filled the theater, concert hall, and studio. Coming from Rochester, MN, she went to Boston to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Berklee College of Music focusing in composition, film scoring, and conducting.

Diana Mann

Diana Mann

Piano

Diana has been a private piano teacher for over 35 years, working with students of all ages & abilities, including adults. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Instrumental Music Education.Her major instrument was Piano, with a minor in Organ.

Kate Rogers

Kate Rogers

Voice, Piano

Kate first became interested in music as a young child in church and started developing her interest through musicals, school choir, and gained confidence as a young performer through theatre, small and large singing ensembles, and singing, lessons.

Sally Olmstead

Sally Olmstead

Piano, Voice

Sally was born and raised in Wichita, KS, and her love of music began when she started group piano lessons at age 5. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. 

Stefanie Tranchida

Stefanie Tranchida

Voice, Piano

Stefanie Tranchida is originally from metro-Detroit, and she recently moved to Minnesota after living in Italy for the last seven years. While abroad she finished her Masters Degree in Music Education at Conservatorio di Musica G. 

Rachel Willoner

Rachel Willoner

Voice, Piano, Flute

I’ve been involved in music for 20+ years. I learned music by playing the flute for 16 years however, my love for music was always coupled with the theater and I tend to lean towards the musical theater realm strongly. 

Jonathan Mattson

Jonathan Mattson

Piano

Pianist Jonathan Mattson has been an active soloist, collaborator, and chamber musician. Jonathan received a B.M. in piano performance from the University of Kansas, and an M.M. in piano performance at Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

We offer a variety of plans to fit your schedule & budget

Weekly

30 min

$140

Monthly

Great for learning the basics and building strong foundations.

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Weekly

60 min

$280

Monthly

Longer lessons, great for motivated musicians.

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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’s a good age to begin piano lessons?

Certain aspects of piano technique, such as interval reach, can be physically challenging to a young child. At the same time, there are plenty of basics to learn before large interval reach is necessary. Rochester Academy of Music suggests beginning instruction no younger than age six. Have no fear: beginning at this young age will give your child plenty of time to progress in their keyboarding skills.
While children make up a good percentage of our student roster, we also love to work with adults. There is no such thing as being too old to learn to play piano. It has no age limit!
So, if you have the desire to learn, we have the desire to teach you—no matter your age.

Do I have to know how to read music?

‍No. All skill levels are welcome!

Do I need a piano to learn the instrument?

No, you do not need a piano at home to take lessons. A simple full-size electronic keyboard will suffice for the first 6 months. We do offer rentals at $25/month for 12 months.

Are there piano recitals?

Absolutely! Every November and June, our students have the opportunity to perform. We do not charge students a fee to perform. And admission is free, so you can invite all of your family and friends.

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 why not get started today?

Guitar

We love Rochester!

It is a great Music School, My daughter and I enjoyed all classes 🙂

— Kelly

Violin

So glad we found you!

My daughter started learning the violin. Her teacher is great with children, she loves her lessons! I am glad we found the academy.

— Shahriar

Incredible Staff

Very professional and heart-warming staff! Thank you for the great times we spend at your school! Highly recommended place and teacher(s)!

— Jessica

Great instruction!

I enjoy the lessons and appreciate the time that my instructor will take to explain a musical technique or concept that I do not understand.

— Paul