Piano Lessons

Location: Richmond Hill

Performing classes are included with lessons.

Contact Vladimir by e-mail (vladimiroppenheim@hotmail.com) or call 905.237.2758

Letter from Vladimir Oppenheim

Dear prospective students,

For more than 25 years, I have been teaching piano and chamber music to students of every age and at every level of expertise: young children, teenagers, and mature adults; absolute beginners, highly competent amateurs, and professional performing artists. I take pride in my ability to reach the students' potential and help them grow into mature musicians.

My teaching is based on the principle that no single approach or method can work for everyone. Teaching must be multidisciplinary and multi-faceted, and my background has given me a unique set of skills that allow me to realize my ideals. I do not believe that learning keyboard technique and piano repertoire can be separated from understanding music theory, developing a grasp of music history and historical performance practice, and expanding students' familiarity with the other arts and with general history. My background in teaching piano in different countries and familiarity with cultures and foreign languages add unusual dimensions to my teaching.

I was fortunate to have had some of the best keyboard training available, and I am adept at diagnosing and solving interpretive and physical issues at the piano.

I choose repertoire that advances students gradually toward their musical goals and toward realizing their potential. To me, technique is not separate from interpretation: they are inextricably bound up with each other.

I believe in teaching students how to analyze what they are doing through an in-depth practicing process, so that they gradually become independent. Taking a student through the long process of development involves also knowing when to hold back information and not overwhelm, as well as developing a supportive and mentoring role as an important figure in the student's life. I believe, too, that my role as a teacher includes motivating and inspiring my students, and I am always aware of having to adjust my demands according to how large or small a role the piano plays in the life and curriculum of each individual student, and what they want to accomplish.

Looking forward to having you as my student!

Vladimir