EAST HARRIET PIANO STUDIO
Piano studio in Southwest Minneapolis teaching the art of playing the piano.
EAST HARRIET PIANO STUDIO
Sarah Kuzel-Leslie, Instructor
Boutique piano studio in Southwest Minneapolis providing holistic and creative instruction to help students reach their goals at the piano.
INSTRUCTOR BIO
My love of the piano began as a child growing up in northern Minnesota. An inspiring music program, records from the library, and my mom's piano playing created inspiration and fostered this love. I was able to play a wide range of music, accompany the school choir, and play in jazz band. In my late teens and early twenties I won prizes in a number of local piano competitions, including the Schubert Club and Marvin O. Mechelke II Piano Scholarships. I also had the honor of serving as a Liberace Scholar. I completed a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance, summa cum laude, from the University of Minnesota School of Music. One highlight from my time at the University was taking part in the City Arts Program, where we studied how art can be used as an agent for social change.
After graduation I ran a highly successful private piano studio from 1999-2004, teaching students ages seven through eighty-five while working with local arts non-profits. I began casually teaching the past few years, and am excited to formally open a studio once again.
Influential teachers include: Carol Heimer, Joseph Zins, Paul Shaw and Jill Dawe.
As an instructor, I look for what inspires my students- from Bach to Billie Ellish-while also drawing from my background to provide a strong foundation of musicianship.
TESTIMONIALS
A few years ago, Sarah began working with my teenage daughter who was proficient in piano, but burnt out. Sarah helped reignite her passion and love for piano. Observing Sarah deftly guide her to a more advanced level of play prompted me to take lessons from her, something I had always wanted to do, but as a beginning adult student, was quite hesitant to undertake. I'm so glad I did! Sarah's enthusiasm for the piano, her deep knowledge of music and technique, her patience and encouragement all contribute to making her an excellent teacher, whether for a beginning adult student like me, or an accomplished high schooler like my daughter. We have both grown immensely in skill and have truly valued and loved our lessons. And I can add how thrilled I am that I am now able to play my own Bach and Mozart pieces, not just listen and enjoy while others perform!
Kris M
As an intermediate, adult piano student I appreciate Sarah’s individualized approach to instruction. She is a skilled pianist who shares her broad knowledge and enthusiasm for the piano and music during lessons. She encourages me to step outside my comfort zone by introducing new composers and different genres of music. I find Sarah’s patience and positive nature motivating, the result of which is that my technique has improved and I have a renewed enjoyment in playing.
Penny J
Sarah is an absolute gem. She taught piano to my daughter, Mary for two years and after every single lesson, my daughter came home happy with a spring in her step and music in her heart and brain. Sarah listened to my daughter in regard to what she wanted to accomplish. When she learned specifically what Mary wanted to study, Sarah identified specific songs, pieces, and movements that targeted her interest and ability, while expecting Mary to improve with every lesson.
Additionally, she challenged Mary to explore music that was out of her comfort zone. Sarah’s teaching style is coated in patience and her own passion for piano and piano performance. Sarah methodically taught Mary to break down the pieces for accuracy and emotion, while supporting her on her successful musical quest to include confidence, happiness, and gorgeous pieces of music by ancient and modern composers.
The opportunity to study with Sarah was truly our good fortune.
Karen B
CONTACT ME
Please e-mail, call or text for up to date studio information.
612-327-5118
Creativity takes courage.
Henri Matisse
