PIANO

Ziyi Wang is a dedicated and accomplished pianist currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree in Piano Performance at the University of Maryland, College Park. Ziyi’s musical journey has been one marked by both academic rigor and artistic exploration. Beginning her formal training at the esteemed Manhattan School of Music, Ziyi cultivated a deep appreciation for the piano under the tutelage of Dr. Joanne Polk. She then continued her studies at Boston University, where she earned her Master of Music degree, mentored by Professor Boaz Sharon.

Ziyi’s talent has been recognized through numerous accolades, including success in notable competitions such as New York International Music Competition, United States Open Music Competition. From solo recitals in Boston and New York to guest artist appearances in China, she has shared her love for music with diverse audiences. Her internationally celebrated performances are characterized by their emotive depth. She also cherishes her experiences as an educator, and she has shared her knowledge and passion for music with students at Xinjiang College of Arts in China and the Yamaha School of Music in Boston.

PIANO

Michael Lundien holds a Master of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Maryland, and a Bachelor’s in Piano Performance from Frostburg State University. Michael has been teaching piano for almost a decade, and has performed classical works and piano compositions at several venues, including 49 West, Penn Alps, and St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church. In his free time, Michael enjoys writing music for video games, including works for solo piano, piano trio, and diverse styles of electronic music.

Lessons with Michael are fun, filled with games, and focused on what excites each student’s individual musical interests. Michael carefully guides students through the analysis of the form, harmony, and theory in their pieces so they develop a deeper understanding of their repertoire and build strong habits when learning and memorizing pieces. With a background in jazz piano, Michael likes to introduce some improvisation techniques to younger students so that they are more comfortable playing in all keys. Michael’s students learn to play with exceptional classical technique while playing the songs they know and love, learning about arranging and composition in the process.

PIANO, VOICE

Rhianna Cockrell holds a Master of Musical Arts in Early Music Performance from Yale University, a Master of Music in Voice Performance from University of Minnesota, and a Bachelor’s in Voice Performance from George Mason University. She performs actively as a soloist, chamber musician, and accompanist. Some recent highlights include an album release with Cantata Collective, an artist residency with the Cornell Department of Music, and solo performances with True Concord Voices & Orchestra, The Thirteen, Oregon Bach Festival, South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, Bach Vespers at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, and Kentucky Bach Choir.

Rhianna has been teaching voice and piano for 8 years. She focuses on a well-rounded musical education, integrating music theory, history, improvisation, song-writing, aural skills, and more into lessons. Her specialty in historical keyboards and expertise in voice in addition to her nearly lifelong study of piano offer a nuanced approach to learning—there is almost no impossible gateway to the study of music! Rhianna comes to lessons flexible and open to what interests each student about music, crafting individual goals around where they find joy in their studies.

FOUNDER

Sarah Nelson holds a Master of Music in Piano Performance from New York University. She also holds degrees in Music Direction for Musical Theatre from Webster University and Piano Performance from Northern Arizona University. Critics have called her work “exceptional,” with the ability to “take a score that’s all over the map and make it flow seamlessly.” She has over a decade of experience as a piano teacher, music director, and composer. Sarah has served as a staff accompanist at many universities.

Lessons with Sarah cover everything from classical piano technique, to basic jazz and blues, music theory, music history, sight-reading, and more. Sarah uses tools like Music Mind Games, NoteSpeed, and other cutting edge music games to keep lessons fun and engaging! Her hope is that each of her students leaves their studies with a lifelong love of music.