About the Pianist Program

The Pianist Program enhances the training of students in grades 7 through 12, whose goals include a performing or academic career. In addition to the instrumental music theory, history, and the musical elective curriculum, the Pianist Program offers classes in solo performance training, piano skills and style topics, score and sight-reading, piano ensemble, and chamber music. World-renowned visiting artist teachers offer regular coaching to students in the Piano Masterclass. Among some of the noted artist teachers who have shared their insights with the students, include: Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Garrick Ohlson, Frederic Chiu, Alexander Kobrin, Peter Takács, Kevin Fitz-Gerald, Lucinda Carver and Norman Krieger. 

Student Experience

Students in the Pianist Program receive a comprehensive arts education that offers young musicians a college-preparatory curriculum with specialized training in piano. The piano faculty are artist-teachers of international stature, who continuously perform and present clinics in major musical centers around the globe. The program’s state-of-the-art keyboards and concert instruments enable students to create music at the highest level and experience the concert atmosphere of top recital venues right on campus. Students receive ample performance experience on and off campus, both solo and collaborative. Additionally, students work with an inspiring caliber of guest artists, university faculty and industry leaders regularly in the Piano Masterclass.

  • “I always walk away from class having learned something new. My classmates inspire me to become the musician I want to be, and my teachers give me the guidance to make that a reality.”
    Brianna Satow – Class of 2017
  • “My success in college is directly related to the vast performance opportunities at OCSA. OCSA taught me great time management, which is an invaluable skill in life.”
    Danielle Braga – Class of 2015

Preparing Students for the Future

The entire curriculum of the Pianist Program is modeled after a college curriculum, and as such, students undergo vigorous preparation for college admission and auditions. The repertoire being studied reflects the requirements of National Association of Schools of Music. By the time the Pianist Program students graduate, they will have acquired all the skills necessary for success at a university or arts conservatory program. Weekly masterclasses are designed to hone performance skills, and the numerous performance opportunities students are given further equip them with the confidence to tackle any audition.

To learn more about the Pianist Program curriculum, click here.