My first instrument was the accordion at age seven. I started playing piano by rote when I was eleven. I was playing Classical way before I embarked on my Salsa/Jazz specialty. I studied classical piano at Cañada College under Phillip Ienni, composition with Henry Onderdonk at SFSU, and at UCLA I studied graduate piano with Peggy Sheffield in preparation for passing the graduate exams in piano (requirement for the doctoral program). I have played at many major venues as a young Rock 'n Roller, and later in life, as a Salsa and Jazz pianist. I am enthusiastic about teaching young people about music and the piano.  Having taught beginning piano since the 70s, I am well acquainted with the classical literature. 
  

I grew up in Santa Cruz, California, and began playing piano at age 9 with the help of my older sister who also played piano. During my high school years, I focused on composition, which became my main area of study during college. Through my college training at the University of California in Santa Cruz and San Jose State University I supported myself by giving piano lessons, playing organ and piano for churches, and working as a freelance pianist. Currently, I am happy to be spending my time honing my keyboard abilities, teaching others to love the piano and music in general, and composing new pieces of music. 

Fifty years of keyboard experience, primarily in the classical genre.  Piano instructor for 30 years.  Comfortable with special needs students (ADHD, Tourette's, aphasia).  I specialize in preparing students for higher education requirements and professional careers.

Soprano Elizabeth P. sings and teaches in the San Francisco Bay area.  She received a Bachelor of Music from Gettysburg College and a Master of Music from Duquesne University. A talented performer, Elizabeth captivates audiences with her graceful yet commanding stage presence.  She has been featured twice as a soloist with the Accordion Pops Orchestra at Philadelphia’s prestigious Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.  She has premiered three song cycles by American composer Stephen Senderoff, entitled Spoon River Songs, Old American Songs, and Exits.  She has attended numerous training programs, including the Bel Canto Institute, the Atlantic Coast Opera Festival, the American Opera Studio, Duquesne University’s Lirica Roma, and the Opera Academy of California.  Elizabeth’s performance credits include: Nancy (Albert Herring), Rosine (Signor Deluso), Leonora (The Beautiful Bridegroom), Miss Silverpeal (The Impresario), Rosalinda (Die Fledermaus), First Tourière (Suor Angelica), Amy (Little Women), Nella (Gianni Schicchi), and Carmela (La Llorona).

I grew up in a famous family of classical musicians.  I started piano at age 3, and flute at age 7.  I have been teaching since age 14.  I studied witih Louise DiTullio in Los Angeles and then pursued a career in jazz, and world music.  I have recorded six cds on my own label, Unika Records.  I have a passion for music and I am told that I spread that passion to my students.  I am very good with beginners, but I love advanced players as well.  I am patient and I encourage the student to learn all they can about every angle of music.  I have an extensive resume of folks I have played with, including but not limited to Hubert Laws, Freddie Hubbard, Taylor Eigsti,  Airto and Flora Purim. I attended USC, and graduated with honors.  I compose, sing, arrange and love to share my music that is inside of me with students.