Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Education Partner in Pittsburgh
Founded in 1996, The Pittsburgh Music Academy has dedicated itself to making music education accessible to individuals of all ages. Our approach combines the Suzuki method with traditional instruction, emphasizing both musical excellence and personal development. With a faculty of certified instructors holding collegiate degrees in music performance, we serve approximately 300 students annually through private lessons, group classes, and performance opportunities. Our curriculum spans violin, viola, cello, piano, flute, brass, and voice, catering to beginners and advanced learners alike. Over 29 years, we've cultivated a community where students develop technical skills, self-esteem, and an appreciation for music's transformative power.Our programs include early childhood Musikgarten classes, instrument exploration workshops, and specialized performance ensembles. We maintain two Pittsburgh locations - Greentree and Squirrel Hill - offering flexible scheduling options including summer camps and evening classes. Our graduates include both professional musicians and lifelong amateur enthusiasts who value music's role in personal growth. Through 30+ annual recitals and collaborative workshops, we foster a supportive environment for artistic expression. Our commitment to quality education has earned recognition as Pittsburgh's premier piano instruction provider for 2024.
Services
Violin Lessons
Piano Instruction
Voice Training
Suzuki Method
Group Classes
Recital Participation
Early Childhood Music
Performance Workshops
Brass Instruction
Cello Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- Certified Suzuki instructors with collegiate music degrees
- 29 years of proven success in music education
- Flexible lesson packages for all skill levels
- Performance opportunities at 30+ annual recitals
- Specialized programs for ages 3 months to adults
Services
Violin Lessons
Private and group violin instruction using Suzuki and traditional methods. Certified teachers guide students from beginner to advanced levels through technical exercises, repertoire development, and performance preparation. Lessons incorporate ear training, music theory, and ensemble playing to build well-rounded musicianship skills.
Piano Instruction
Comprehensive piano education for all ages featuring technique development, sight-reading, and repertoire mastery. Students participate in recitals and workshops while learning classical, contemporary, and improvisational styles. Instruction emphasizes proper hand positioning and musical expression.
Suzuki Method
Research-based music education approach emphasizing early childhood development through listening, repetition, and parental involvement. This method cultivates musical ability alongside character building through structured repertoire progression and group learning experiences.
Group Classes
Collaborative learning sessions where students develop ensemble skills, rhythmic coordination, and performance confidence. Classes include instrument-specific technique workshops, chamber music ensembles, and large group rehearsals culminating in public performances throughout the year.
Recital Participation
Students gain stage experience through 30+ annual recitals and concerts at two Pittsburgh locations. Events range from casual student showcases to formal concerts, including solo performances, ensemble pieces, and collaborative works with professional musicians.
People
Jennifer Madge
Academy Director & Violin
Director with 25+ years of Suzuki pedagogy experience. Holds performance degrees from Juilliard and Carnegie Mellon. Specializes in violin instruction for children and teacher training programs.
Anthony Gillingham
Violin & Beginner Piano
Certified Suzuki instructor with 20 years of teaching experience. Performs regularly with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Focuses on developing technical foundation and musical expression in young students.
Becky Keeley
String Department Chair
Cello specialist with master's degree in music education. Leads string pedagogy workshops and develops curriculum for early childhood string programs. Performs with regional chamber ensembles.
Greg Zawacki
Brass Instructor
Only certified Suzuki brass teacher in the region. Former trumpet fellow with Boston Symphony Orchestra. Teaches trumpet, trombone, and French horn using age-appropriate technical development methods.
Amaury Morales
Piano Department Chair
Piano pedagogy expert with doctorate from Eastman School of Music. Develops curriculum for piano technique and sight-reading. Performs regularly in solo and chamber music recitals across Pennsylvania.
Questions
What music education methods do you use?
We combine the Suzuki method with traditional instruction, emphasizing listening skills, technical development, and musical expression through structured repertoire progression.
Are trial lessons available?
Yes, 30-minute trial lessons are available for $30. This allows students to experience our teaching approach and find the best instructor match.
What age groups do you accept?
We teach students from 3 months old through adulthood. Programs are tailored for different developmental stages from early childhood to advanced conservatory preparation.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we host 30+ annual recitals and concerts at two Pittsburgh locations, including solo performances, ensemble pieces, and collaborative works with professional musicians.
What lesson packages are available?
We offer four packages: Comprehensive Enrollment (36 weeks), Lessons Only (18 weeks), Flex Plan (10 lessons), and Associate Membership (group classes only).
How do I register for classes?
Complete our online new student interest form or contact the office directly. Our staff will help determine the best program and schedule your first lesson.
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