Supportive Piano Lessons That Build Skill, Confidence, and a Lifelong Love of Music

Julian is a San Diego native who began studying piano at the age of 11. He graduated with honors from the School of Creative and Performing Arts at Chula Vista High School and was awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the Sunny Brown Foundation, as well as a scholarship from San Diego State University, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree under the guidance of Dr. Karen Follingstad and Krysztof Brzuza. He continued his studies in Europe, earning a Master’s degree from the Krzysztof Penderecki Academy of Music in Kraków, Poland, where he studied with Mariola Cieniawa and Piotr Machnik. Julian later completed his postgraduate Konzertexamen at the Anton Rubinstein International Academy of Music in Germany, studying under Mikhail Mordinov. In addition, he participated in multiple piano workshops at the Toscana Musicale Academy in Montaione, Italy, where he studied with Tatiana Zelikman, renowned pedagogue and teacher of Daniil Trifonov. In addition to his formal studies, Julian has participated in masterclasses with distinguished artists including Mikhail Voskresensky, Vadym Kholodenko, Kevin Kenner, Stefan Wojtas, Grace Fong, Charlie Albright, Juho Pohjonen, Antoinette Perry and Alexander Brussilovsky, gaining valuable insight into a wide range of pianistic traditions, interpretive approaches, and performance practices.

Julian is deeply passionate about piano pedagogy and is dedicated to teaching students not only technical and musical skills, but also discipline, curiosity, and independent thinking. He believes that learning the piano goes far beyond mastering an instrument: it fosters strong habits, self-awareness, and personal growth that extend into all areas of life. His teaching approach combines solid technical foundations with creativity, listening skills, and thoughtful musical interpretation, helping students develop both confidence and artistic individuality. Drawing from his extensive performance and academic background, he adapts lessons to each student’s goals, learning style, and pace, whether they are beginners discovering music for the first time or advanced students refining their artistry. He encourages consistent practice habits, mindful listening, and problem-solving skills so that students learn how to learn independently. Julian strives to create a structured yet encouraging environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. His goal is to help anyone willing to learn become more confident, thoughtful, and well-rounded individuals through music, while also creating a fun and supportive environment where students can enjoy the process, learn, and grow. He is always happy to welcome new students and considers it a privilege to teach and guide students at every stage of their musical journey.