Dr. Chen Piano Studio

First and foremost, it's CRUCIAL to acquaint yourself with the students. At Dr. Chen Piano Studio, we start by getting to know each student — their age, experience level, learning style, and goals. We usually begin with a trial lesson to assess their musical background and determine the best learning path forward. From there, we match the student with a suitable teacher from our team based on their needs and personality. In the first few lessons, we focus on building trust, introducing core concepts (like posture, hand shape, and basic technique), and gradually tailoring the curriculum to the student's interests — whether classical repertoire, pop songs, or creative exploration. We also provide regular communication with parents and offer lesson notes to help track progress. Our goal is to make each student feel supported, motivated, and empowered in their musical journey from the very beginning.

Dr. Yezi Chen, the founder of our studio, holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree and previously served on the piano faculty at Temple University and the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC). With over a decade of experience, she has taught students of all ages and levels — from young beginners to advanced pianists preparing for competitions and college auditions. Our teaching team is composed of highly trained and dedicated musicians, all of whom hold degrees in music performance, music education, or related fields. In addition to their academic qualifications, every teacher undergoes a rigorous selection and training process to ensure they are familiar with a wide range of teaching materials and methods suitable for students at all levels. Whether a student is just starting out, returning to piano after a break, or aiming for conservatory-level study, our teachers are equipped to guide them with expertise, structure, and care. We believe in thoughtful, individualized instruction that balances technique, musicality, and enjoyment — all delivered in a warm and supportive environment.

Yes, we offer a clear and consistent pricing structure for private one-on-one lessons at Dr. Chen Piano Studio: 30-minute lesson: $37.50 per lesson 45-minute lesson: $56.25 per lesson 60-minute lesson: $75.00 per lesson Students may choose the lesson length based on their level, age, and goals. We're happy to help new students determine the most suitable option during the initial consultation.

Dr. Chen Piano Studio was founded with the goal of creating a professional, inspiring, and supportive environment where students can thrive musically. The studio is led by Dr. Chen, who began teaching during her graduate studies and has since taught at both UMKC and Temple University. With years of experience working with students of all ages and backgrounds, she understands the importance of high-quality, personalized instruction. Building on this foundation, our studio brings together a team of well-trained, dedicated teachers who share a passion for music education. Each teacher is selected for their musical expertise, teaching experience, and ability to connect with students. Together, we provide a consistent, nurturing learning experience where students can grow in confidence, skill, and musicality. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for auditions or competitions, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

At Dr. Chen Piano Studio, we work with a wide range of students—from young beginners as young as age 4 to advanced students preparing for exams, auditions, or competitions. We also welcome adult learners, whether they are returning to piano after a break or learning for the first time. Our team of teachers has experience working with students of all levels, learning styles, and goals. Some students come to us for a fun and enriching hobby, while others pursue a more structured and rigorous path. Regardless of the goal, we tailor our approach to meet each student where they are and help them grow with confidence.

One recent event that stands out is our summer studio recital (yes-- our studio proudly hosts two studio-wide recitals each year!). We had students of all ages and levels perform, from young beginners playing their very first solos to advanced students presenting more challenging repertoire. What made the event especially meaningful was the warm, encouraging atmosphere. Families came together to celebrate each student’s growth, and it was truly inspiring to see students cheer for one another. Events like this reflect what we value most at Dr. Chen Piano Studio: musical growth, confidence, and community. It’s always deeply rewarding to watch our students shine and feel proud of how far they’ve come.

Look for a teacher or studio that not only has strong musical qualifications, but also understands how to connect with students and adapt to their learning styles. A good teacher should offer clear structure, consistent feedback, and encouragement—especially for beginners. It's also important to find someone who helps you set goals and supports you along the way, whether you're playing for fun or working toward exams and competitions. At Dr. Chen Piano Studio, our team of experienced teachers is trained to do exactly that. We prioritize individualized instruction, open communication with families, and creating a supportive environment where students can truly thrive.

Students should consider what they hope to gain from lessons—are they learning for fun, aiming to build a strong foundation, preparing for exams or competitions, or returning to music after a break? It’s also helpful to think about how they learn best, how much time they can realistically commit to practice, and whether they prefer a structured or more flexible approach. At Dr. Chen Piano Studio, we always start by understanding a student’s goals and learning style. This helps us match them with the right teacher from our team and tailor a lesson plan that sets them up for long-term success and enjoyment. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, knowing your goals can help you get the most out of your musical journey.