Piano Lessons near Somerville and Cambridge, MA. Union Lesson Studios offers piano lessons for kids and adults of all levels. We help students gain the technique, repertoire, and confidence they need to play in practically any style of music. We're conveniently located at 11 Bow Street in Somerville's Union Square. Online lessons are available via video calling.
Bio: Aaron Gratzmiller is a saxophonist and pianist based in Boston, MA. His energetic playing and stylistic versatility has helped him become one of the most active performers in New England, sharing the stage with notable artists in a variety of musical settings. Aaron has 7 years of experience teaching private lessons, and is active in the artistic community through organizations such as the New England Jazz Enrichment Foundation, for which he serves as the Director of Arts and Education. He majored in music at both Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, graduating from Berklee with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance.
Teaching Philosophy: "There are many reasons for studying music; some people seek lessons with specific musical goals in mind, while others are simply looking for a fun and engaging way to spend their free time. I try to address each student’s needs by showing them how to make small improvements each week. On both the piano and the saxophone, this usually involves working on the fundamentals- tone, time, technique, and reading. I also enjoy working with students to select (or even write) real music that relates to their lessons, then helping them through the process of preparing for a performance. Beyond that, it’s all about having fun and trying something new."
Piano instructor Aaron Gratzmiller answers some questions you may have about learning this instrument:
4 years old and up.
Union Lesson Studios provides students need for their first lesson, although a blank notebook can be very helpful. The instructor will recommend books and supplies for future lessons. Books for beginner pianists typically cost less than $15.
There's nothing wrong with starting out on a digital piano, they're less expensive and easier to maintain than acoustic pianos. Look for a digital piano or a hybrid piano with 88 weighted keys if possible. Students often look for an acoustic piano after playing for a few years. Current Union Lesson Studios students can practice on our pianos for $15/hr. Please contact us if you have any questions or need help finding an instrument.
Most beginners learn the basics of music notation, where to find notes on the piano, technique/ posture, and simple songs. Lessons can also include learning songs by ear, writing original music, and playing in contemporary styles.
Advancing students should bring any recent repertoire/ songs, warmups, and methods. Any kind of blank notebook is very helpful. Many advancing students have specific goals in taking lessons here, and that's fine with us!