Best Piano Lessons in Pasadena, California

Pasadena Piano Institute
912 Manzanita Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103 +16262601615 Visit Website
Opening Hours
Monday: 08:00-21:00
Tuesday: 08:00-21:00
Wednesday: 08:00-21:00
Thursday: 08:00-21:00
Friday: 12:00-18:00
Saturday: 08:00-18:00
Sunday: 07:00-19:00
Pasadena Piano Institute
Pasadena Piano Institute is dedicated to fostering a lifelong passion for music through personalized piano instruction. They offer a variety of learning options, including in-person, online, and hybrid private lessons, alongside engaging group theory classes. The Institute emphasizes developing students’ musicianship, tone, and overall musical literacy. Their approach, known as "Lighting a Fire", focuses on inspiring a love of music rather than simply filling students with knowledge. The Institute’s faculty, led by Hillary, provides thoughtful instruction and personalized attention, and they are proud members of the Music Teachers Association of California (MTAC).
What piano styles are taught here?
Classical, Contemporary, Popular Music (adaptable to student interests)
Which age groups are catered to?
The Institute caters to a wide range of ages, including: Preschool (ages 5-7) – Introduces basic musical concepts through games and singing; Elementary School (ages 8-11) – Develops foundational skills in reading music and playing simple pieces; Middle School (ages 12-14) – Builds upon previous skills, exploring more complex pieces and music theory; High School (ages 15-18) – Focuses on advanced technique, repertoire, and musical interpretation; Adult Learners (all ages) – Offers personalized instruction for individuals of all skill levels and musical goals.
What's the pedagogical approach to teaching piano?
Pasadena Piano Institute employs a student-centered pedagogical approach that prioritizes developing musicianship alongside technical proficiency. Lessons are tailored to each student’s individual needs, abilities, and goals. The Institute emphasizes tone, economy of motion, and overall musical literacy. They utilize a progressive curriculum that builds upon foundational skills, incorporating elements of MTAC methodology. The ‘Lighting a Fire’ philosophy encourages a love of music through engaging activities, performance opportunities (including the popular ‘Piano Teams’ where students learn together), and a supportive learning environment. Hillary utilizes a method that incorporates the teachings of N. Jane Tan, an International Steinway Artist at the Well Prepared Pianist Institute, focusing on developing a deep understanding of musical expression and technique.

Colburn Piano Studio
E Orange Grove Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104 +16267918725 Visit Website
Opening Hours
Monday: Not available
Tuesday: Not available
Wednesday: Not available
Thursday: Not available
Friday: Not available
Saturday: Not available
Sunday: Not available
Colburn Piano Studio
Colburn Piano Studio stands out as a distinguished institution renowned for its exceptional piano instruction and its deep commitment to fostering a vibrant musical community. Led by internationally recognized pianist and educator, Janet Colburn, the studio boasts a rich history and a dedication to both artistic excellence and pedagogical innovation. Dr. Colburn’s extensive background, including a Doctorate in Music and collaborations with celebrated artists like Sir Neville Marriner and Sir James Galway, combined with her mentorship from renowned figures like Ozan Marsh, positions the studio as a premier destination for serious piano students. The studio’s active engagement through concert series and affiliations further solidifies its place as a cornerstone of the Pasadena music scene.
What piano styles are taught here?
Classical Piano, Contemporary Piano, Accompaniment (Film/TV)
Which age groups are catered to?
The studio caters to a wide range of age groups, from young children (ages 5-7) beginning their musical journey with foundational skills, through pre-teens (ages 8-12) developing technique and musicality, and teenagers (ages 13-18) pursuing advanced studies and preparing for performance. Adult learners of all ages and skill levels are also welcome, benefiting from personalized instruction tailored to their individual goals.
What's the pedagogical approach to teaching piano?
Colburn Piano Studio employs a highly individualized and results-oriented pedagogical approach, deeply rooted in the principles of Dr. Janet Colburn’s extensive experience and training. Lessons are meticulously tailored to each student’s unique needs, learning style, and musical aspirations. Emphasis is placed on developing a strong technical foundation, fostering musical expression, and cultivating a deep appreciation for the piano repertoire. The studio utilizes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates traditional techniques with modern pedagogical methods, prioritizing student engagement and a positive learning environment.

Pasadena Music Institute
Allen Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
Phone not available
Visit Website Opening Hours
Monday: 00:00-00:00
Tuesday: 00:00-00:00
Wednesday: 00:00-00:00
Thursday: 00:00-00:00
Friday: 00:00-00:00
Saturday: 00:00-00:00
Sunday: Closed
Pasadena Music Institute
Pasadena Music Institute is a piano instruction business dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of music in students of all ages and experience levels. They offer a variety of learning options and a supportive environment focused on artistic excellence. The Institute provides private piano lessons in in-person, online, and hybrid formats, group theory classes, and instrument instruction beyond piano. They also offer band workshops, a Level Up Music Achievement Program with certificates and performance opportunities at the Boston Court Pasadena. The facility includes a state-of-the-art space with a parent’s lounge, ample parking, and observation windows. The staff, including knowledgeable and experienced teachers like Hillary, prioritize student safety and provide exceptional customer service. Students are on a month-to-month basis, offering flexibility, and the Institute has been trusted by hundreds of families since 2011.
What piano styles are taught here?
Classical, Contemporary, Jazz, Pop, Blues
Which age groups are catered to?
The Institute caters to a wide range of age groups, including: Young Children (ages 5-7), Elementary School Students (ages 8-12), Pre-Teen (ages 10-13), Teenagers (ages 14-17), and Adult Learners (18+). Lessons are tailored to each student’s individual needs and experience level, ensuring a comfortable and engaging learning journey for all.
What's the pedagogical approach to teaching piano?
Pasadena Music Institute employs a student-centered pedagogical approach, focusing on building a strong foundation in music fundamentals while nurturing artistic expression. Teachers like Hillary prioritize adapting lessons to each student’s individual needs and goals, balancing new material with focused practice on specific pieces. The Level Up Music Achievement Program utilizes a structured system with certificates and wristbands to motivate progress and foster a sense of accomplishment. Emphasis is placed on creating a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel confident and inspired to explore their musical potential.
Phone not available