Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions

Piano Studies FAQ

Q. How is my private piano teacher chosen?

A. Each Piano Performance Major has the opportunity to select a private teacher. You might begin by discussing this with your current teacher, who may be familiar with our Artist Faculty members. You might also look at the Piano Faculty biographies online, as each of our faculty members has unique strengths and specializations. If you have not chosen a teacher by the time you enroll at NYU, you will discuss this matter with the Director of the Program during registration, and she will place you with the best teacher for your individual needs and talents.

Q: Will I be able to work/collaborate with other major teachers in my discipline? For instance, if I'm a student of one teacher, will I be able to play chamber music for or perform in a master classes of other teachers?

A. Yes. It is not unusual for students in one studio to coach with a teacher in another studio, on particular repertoire. Additionally, the annual Artist Master Class offers the chance for students to work with internationally renowned teachers and performers. In weekly chamber music coachings, pianists learn from instrumentalists who play regularly in New York’s top ensembles, such as the New York City Opera, the Mostly Festival Mozart Orchestra, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Ensemble 21, and the Group for Contemporary Music.

Q: Will I be able to take courses in other programs in the music department such as Music Ed, Tech, Business, or Therapy?

A.Yes. These programs welcome performance majors in their courses, although there are sometimes prerequisites. With the help of your advisor, you will discuss how to integrate these courses into your course of study.

Q: Are there a variety of solo and chamber music performance opportunities?

A. Yes. NYU-Steinhardt offers pianists many opportunities to perform in solo and collaborative settings, including Salon Evenings and Interstudio Showcases, as well as concerts presented by the NYU Symphony Orchestra, NYU Wind Ensemble, the Steinhardt at Saklad series, Composer’s Ensemble, and Chamber Music Program. Students perform in spaces ranging from the grand Loewe Theatre to the Ten-Ri Institute, a sophisticated gallery space. All performance majors are required to present two solo recitals. It is also common for Piano Performance majors to take part in the exciting opera and musical theatre productions which take place each semester.

Q: If I've had prior formal music training in Music Theory, History, or Aural Comp, am I eligible to test out of any level?

A. You should speak with your advisor and then the Director of Music Theory Studies. Your excellent performance on placement exams may grant you advanced standing in those classes.

Back to Top

Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions - 35 W. 4th Street, Suite 777 - New York, NY 10012 - (212) 998-5424