Elena Sundquist

Piano

Elena’s approach to teaching piano is truly individual and based on the specific needs of each student. She teaches students of all ages, including children, weaving laughter, fun, and games while gently introducing necessary techniques such as sightreading, music notation, and music theory. Students explore classical and contemporary music and composers, and can learn composition and performance techniques, as well.

Elena believes that learning piano benefits students by developing creativity and improving memory, focus, and coordination while building up perseverance and diligence. Lessons also include historical discussions about the pieces of music and composers. “Understanding the work and mindset of the composer greatly influences the students’ interpretation of a piece of music,” says Elena. “It brings so much fun and joy to each lesson.”

The atmosphere in lessons is inviting, fun, and encourages learning. Elena is very patient and takes the time needed to help young students come out of their shell and enjoy playing and experiencing music. “With very young children,” says Elena, “we climb the beautiful but at times challenging ladder of piano learning through songs, rhythmics, and dancing games.”

Elena excelled at piano from an early age. “My mother was my first piano teacher,” tells Elena. “Music has been the most incredible part of my life since I was five.” Eventually, she studied with the head of the Composition Department at Moscow Conservatory of Music, who was mentored by Shostakovich. She became a concert and studio pianist, as well as concertmaster and accompanist for violinists, cellists, flutists, trios, quartets, quintets, opera, singers, and dancers. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s in piano and music composition in Moscow at the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory and Gnessin State Music College.

Elena is also able to provide certification for those interested in going through the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) program. This 100+ year old program provides graded music exams and assessments in the field of music education and is overseen by four music conservatories, including the Royal Academy of Music in London.

Specialties: Classical, contemporary, performance, notation, sight-reading, music theory, composition, ABRSM Certification

Levels: All

Ages: 5+

Rates: $85 for one hour

Availability: Tuesday – Saturday mornings and afternoons

Online/In-Person: Both

Sign Up for Lessons with Elena!