Teaching Philosophy

Teaching method. I follow the traditional rigorous classical teaching method based on traditions of Russian piano school, which I professionally studied for 18 years and taught for 37 years. During the lessons, we work on piano technique, expression, artistry, as well as piano theory. We discuss history of music and work on pieces from different time periods. I do not teach jazz piano.

It is not uncommon that a student who had taken lessons with a less rigorous teacher has developed ineffective technique which limit his progress. With such a student, I have to go back to the basics and teach him or her the correct hands position, hands movements, and touch. It is impossible to overemphasize the importance of these fundamentals. It may take months or even years to unlearn bad habits.

What is expected from students. Piano is a difficult (but extremely rewarding) instrument to learn. I expect students to show dedication and commitment during lessons and at home. Practice during the lesson is not enough. I expect students to practice at home on a regular basis.

Participation in tests and competitions. I encourage my students to take OMTA Syllabus exams and participate in local, state, national, and international competitions. I post information about competitions on my web site and in my studio, and advise students when I think they reached the level at which they can successfully compete. In fact, my whole teaching approach is based on the goal of bringing students to the level at which they can win in music competition of any level and can, if they choose so, pursue a career in music. Participation in competitions is a great motivating factor for kids and winning a medal is a huge reward. I am proud to say that in the 11 years between 2009 and 2020, my students won over 500 awards at various competitions, including 53 medals at the US Open International Music Competition.

In order to win a medal at a competition, a student should practice consistently over many months. Those students who plan to travel to the US Open competition, or participate in any other national or international competition, are strogly advised to request an additional lesson per week and practice daily in order to succeed.

Selection of music. New pieces are selected every semester. I carefully select pieces individually for each student. I offer each student several options and play each of them to the student to help him or her to decide. I use music from all periods - from baroque to contemporary. Every student has its own piece (or multiple pieces) to perform, which no other student in my studio plays.

Organization of lessons. I teach at my home studio. All my lessons are individual private lessons. I do not offer group lessons, with the exception of specially scheduled duet or even trio practices. The cost of such lessons is split between participants.

Music instrument requirements. Even the most advanced electronic pianos do not have the same response, feel, and touch as an acoustic instrument. I expect each of my students to rent or purchase their own acoustic instrument to practice at home. Electronic keyboard is acceptable only for a short period until the student finds a suitable instrument.

Parents involvement. Parents are welcome to attend the lessons. Parents should encourage students to practice daily and schedule time for piano in child's calendar.

Students performances. I rent a concert hall and organize recitals twice per year. Every student is encouraged to perform at these recitals in front of a large audience of parents, relatives, and their guests. I make video recording of each recital and videos of the recital will become available to students.

Some of my students performances can be viewed here