Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're considering piano lessons or booking a performance, find answers to common questions below.
Piano Lessons
I welcome students of all ages, from children (6+) to teens and adults. Each age group receives age-appropriate pedagogy and repertoire selection tailored to their developmental stage and musical interests. Whether you're a child beginning your musical journey, a teenager preparing for exams, or an adult fulfilling a lifelong dream, you'll find a supportive and inspiring learning environment.
Absolutely not. I teach students at all levels, from complete beginners taking their first steps at the keyboard to advanced pianists refining their artistry. For beginners, we start with fundamental technique, hand position, and simple pieces. For advanced students, we explore complex repertoire, interpretation, and performance preparation. The journey is tailored to exactly where you are.
I offer flexible location options to accommodate your needs. In-person lessons are available in Zug and the surrounding area in Central Switzerland. I also offer online lessons via video call, which have proven highly effective and allow students from anywhere to benefit from professional instruction. Online lessons provide the same quality of teaching with the added convenience of learning from your own home.
Lesson duration and frequency are tailored to each student's age, level, and goals. Typically, lessons range from 45 to 60 minutes and occur weekly to maintain consistent progress. For younger beginners, 30-45 minute sessions may be more appropriate, while advanced students preparing for performances or exams may benefit from longer or more frequent sessions. We'll discuss what works best for you during our initial consultation.
Lessons encompass a holistic approach to piano playing. You'll develop proper technique (hand position, finger independence, scales, arpeggios), explore repertoire spanning Baroque to contemporary styles, learn music theory integrated with practical playing, develop interpretive skills to bring pieces to life, and prepare for performances when desired. The goal is not just to play notes, but to make music: to express yourself through the piano with both technical command and emotional authenticity.
Yes, I have extensive experience preparing students for examinations and competitions. Whether you're working toward ABRSM, Trinity, or other music qualifications, or preparing for a piano competition, I provide structured guidance on required repertoire, technical exercises, sight-reading, and aural skills. Performance preparation, both technical and psychological, is a key part of this process.
My teaching philosophy centers on a simple truth: technique serves expression, not the other way around. While rigorous technical training is essential, and I'm trained in the Moscow Conservatory tradition, the ultimate goal is musical authenticity and personal expression. I believe every student has a unique voice waiting to be discovered at the piano. My role is to provide the tools, guidance, and inspiration for that voice to emerge, creating a space where practice becomes a form of self-discovery.
Lessons are CHF 120 for 60 minutes or CHF 90 for 45 minutes. I also offer 10-lesson packages: CHF 1,080 for ten 60-minute lessons, or CHF 810 for ten 45-minute lessons. Each package gives you 10 lessons for the price of 9, so one lesson is complimentary.
Absolutely! I encourage prospective students to book a trial lesson. This gives us both the opportunity to meet, discuss your musical goals, assess your current level, and ensure we're a good fit. The trial lesson is a genuine lesson experience, not just a consultation, so you'll get a real sense of how we'll work together. Contact me to schedule your trial lesson.
Concert Booking
I offer a range of performance formats to suit different venues and occasions. These include full-length solo recitals (90-120 minutes with intermission), shorter solo programs (45-60 minutes), chamber music collaborations with vocalists or instrumentalists, festival appearances, and elegant performances for private events such as weddings, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. Each program can be tailored to the specific atmosphere and audience of your event.
My repertoire centers on the piano's most expressive voices. I specialize in Romantic works (Chopin Nocturnes, Ballades, and Études; Rachmaninoff Preludes; Schumann; Beethoven Sonatas), Impressionist masterpieces (Debussy Préludes, Images, Suite bergamasque; Ravel), Baroque treasures (Bach Well-Tempered Clavier, French Suites, Partitas), and contemporary pieces including original compositions. Programs can be customized to your venue's theme, season, or audience preferences. View my complete repertoire for more details.
Yes, absolutely. While I have signature programs ready to perform, I'm very open to creating customized programs tailored to your venue's theme, season, or special requirements. Whether you're seeking an all-Chopin evening, a journey through Impressionism, a Baroque focus, or a mixed program spanning different eras, I'll work with you to create an experience that resonates with your audience and fits your event's vision.
For optimal performance quality, I require a concert grand piano in excellent condition, ideally a Steinway, Yamaha, Bösendorfer, or equivalent professional instrument. The piano should be professionally tuned shortly before the performance (within 24-48 hours is ideal). I'm happy to discuss specific technical requirements once we confirm the booking. A pre-performance sound check is also essential to ensure the best possible musical experience for your audience.
For the best availability, I recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for weekend performances or dates during popular concert seasons (fall and spring). However, I understand that sometimes opportunities arise on shorter notice, so please don't hesitate to contact me even if your event is approaching. I'll do my best to accommodate your timeline if my schedule allows.
Yes, I'm based in Zug, Central Switzerland, and regularly perform throughout Switzerland and internationally. I've performed in venues across Europe, including France, Sweden, Turkey, India, Ukraine, and Russia. For international engagements, we can discuss travel arrangements, accommodation, and logistics as part of the booking process. I'm excited to bring live piano music to audiences wherever they may be.
Performance fees vary based on several factors including program length, travel distance, venue type, and any special requirements. I'm committed to working within various budget ranges and finding solutions that make live classical piano accessible. Please contact me with details about your event (date, location, program preferences, and venue type) and I'll provide a detailed quote tailored to your specific needs.
Yes, upon booking confirmation, I provide high-resolution photographs, a professional biography in various lengths (short, medium, long), detailed program notes for your selected repertoire, and any other materials you need for your marketing and promotional efforts. I want to make the administrative side of the booking as smooth as possible so you can focus on creating a wonderful event.
Absolutely. I have extensive experience in chamber music and collaborative performances. I've worked with leading national ensembles and distinguished vocalists throughout my career. Whether you're seeking a piano and voice recital, instrumental collaboration, or ensemble performance, I bring sensitivity, musicality, and professionalism to every collaborative project. Please share your vision, and we'll explore how we can create something beautiful together.
I understand that circumstances sometimes require changes to event dates. My cancellation and rescheduling policy aims to be fair and flexible while respecting the commitment both parties have made. Specific terms will be outlined in our performance contract. Generally, the earlier you notify me of a change, the more flexibility I can offer. Please contact me as soon as possible if rescheduling becomes necessary, and I'll work with you to find a solution.
I am delighted to perform throughout Switzerland and neighboring countries. For events requiring travel beyond Central Switzerland, reasonable transportation costs are added to the booking fee. I am also available for select international engagements. Please inquire about your specific location and event details.
Most venues provide a grand or upright piano as part of their facilities. For locations without an instrument, I can coordinate professional piano rental to ensure the highest sound quality for your event. All arrangements are discussed during the booking consultation to ensure a seamless experience.
Absolutely. Performance duration is tailored to your event's needs, whether you require an intimate 30-minute ceremony set, several hours of ambient reception music, or continuous coverage throughout your celebration. We'll design a timeline that complements your event's flow perfectly.
Yes, I collaborate with exceptional violinists, cellists, and vocalists to create duos or trios for clients seeking a richer ensemble sound. These arrangements add depth and elegance to cocktail hours, ceremonies, and receptions.
I welcome special song requests and custom arrangements. With sufficient advance notice (typically 4-6 weeks), I can prepare pieces that hold personal meaning for you and your guests, ensuring your event's soundtrack is truly unique.
Booking is confirmed with a 30% deposit upon contract signing. The remaining balance is due 7 days before your event. I accept bank transfer, TWINT, and invoice for corporate clients. A simple performance agreement outlines the date, time, location, duration, and repertoire expectations. Cancellation policy: 60+ days before the event receives a full refund minus a small processing fee; 30-60 days receives 50% refund; less than 30 days, the deposit is retained.
Still Have Questions?
If you didn't find the answer you were looking for, I'd be delighted to hear from you directly. Every inquiry is unique, and I'm here to help you find the information you need.
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