Piano Lessons with York Technical College Educator for All Levels

While we’ll certainly touch on essential music fundamentals — like rhythm, technique, and music theory — my main goal is to help students truly connect with music. That starts with learning to play by ear. Training the ear helps build a deeper understanding of how music works and allows students to recognize patterns, melodies, and harmonies in a natural, intuitive way. Whether it’s figuring out a favorite song or improvising a solo, the ability to listen closely and trust your musical instincts is at the heart of what I teach. I also place a strong emphasis on creativity. I love encouraging students to explore beyond the page — whether it’s writing their own music, jamming over chord progressions, or experimenting with different styles. Improvisation is a big part of that. It gives students the freedom to express themselves in the moment and helps build confidence, flexibility, and musical fluency. You don’t have to be a composer to be creative — you just have to be willing to try something new. Above all, I want my students to learn how to learn. That means developing tools they can carry with them for life — not just memorizing pieces, but understanding how music works so they can grow on their own. I’m here to guide, support, and challenge them, but I also encourage exploration and personal initiative. Whether you’re playing for fun, preparing for performances, or just looking to jam, I’ll meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to go. Thanks for taking the time to read this. I’m really looking forward to making music together and watching each student grow in their own unique way. Best, Michael Tristano