About Irina

My Background

I have been playing piano for more than 30 years and teaching piano for the past 20 years. Music is my life - and my greatest joy comes from sharing this passion with my students.

I've lived in the United States since 1998, but I was born in Russia, where music education is taken very seriously. I began studying piano at the age of eight in the Russian School of Music (1983-1990) in my home city of Smolensk. I graduated with honors from the Smolensk College of Music (1990-1994) and the Moscow Academy of Music (1994-1998).

Teaching Style

My approach is unique because I employ several teaching methods and tailor each lesson to the individual. By selecting musical genres and pieces that resonate with the student, the learning process becomes both effective and fun.

As a teacher, I draw on all aspects of my musical experience to help my students develop into well-grounded, expressive musicians. I try to foster a sense of confidence and creative freedom in all of my students.

I teach students from ages 5 - adult and all skill levels, from beginning to advanced, and offer a total college preparatory background with focus on applied music theory.