Leave your email, phone and how you found us. I read every message and listen to every recording myself.
At this age you know exactly which music matters to you. The piano can be the way to make it yours.
Adults past seventy bring things a younger beginner does not: they know exactly which music matters to them, they listen deeply, and they are not trying to impress anyone.
Online Piano University is free and unhurried. There is no timetable, no test and no one to compete with. You can start with a single lesson today, repeat it as many times as you like and ask me a question whenever you need to.
At any age, learning something new is a way to meet your own mind again. Lessons here are short, in order, and you set the pace.
Songs from your own life, a way to keep your hands moving, and something to do that is entirely yours, whenever you want it.
Playing for your family, in your own home, makes you the center of a moment, not a bystander. People remember it.
What adult students say about Dr. Maria Pisarenko as their teacher · 5.0★ on Yelp, 4.9★ on Google.
★★★★★
“A very knowledgeable teacher and an outstanding pianist... Her attention to detail and expression is incredible. I recommend Masha to all of my friends and everyone is delighted with her instruction.”
— Katerina W., adult student · Yelp
★★★★★
“After being away from piano lessons for 15 years, I'd always wanted to start up again... Dr. Pisarenko is a great instructor for me. She's kind and patient and encouraging... very reasonable rates and top notch instruction. She's the best!”
— Guillo L., returning adult student · Yelp
★★★★★
“I took piano lessons for a few years as a kid... Dr Pisarenko has been wonderful!!! She is very patient, very flexible with scheduling and I have learned so much from her in such a short period of time!”
— Sarah K., adult beginner · Yelp
The songs and melodies that many people in their seventies carry with them, on a piano they can play slowly and beautifully.
Tell me which one you want and I will point you to the lessons that lead to it. Write to me or start the course and aim at it from day one. Titles are named for reference; the sheet music for each is published by its own rights holders.
Send a message or attach a recording. Email, phone and how you found us help me answer you properly.
Short, gentle sessions work best, with rests built in. Warm hands first. If you have arthritis or any pain, ask your doctor what is right for you; I am a pianist, not a physician.
Large-print editions, good light and a music stand at the right height make a real difference. We start with very little notation and add only what you need.
Play a little, then rest, then play again tomorrow. A short notebook entry after each session keeps your place.
You do not need an app. A keyboard, headphones and a browser are enough. The lessons are videos that you can pause as often as you like.
It is not. You can learn to play a piece you love, and play it for your family. That is a real musical achievement.
Lesson 1. Sit comfortably, find middle C and play your first melody by ear. Stop when you are tired.
One lesson a week is perfectly fine. Rewatch as often as you like.
Choose one song from the list and send me a recording of your first attempt.
I am Dr. Maria Pisarenko, DMA, a concert pianist and university professor. I trained in the Russian school at the Central Music School of the Moscow Conservatory and the Gnessin Academy, and I teach at the college level. My work with adult beginners is the reason this course exists. You can read what the press and students say on the press and reviews pages.
I am writing a piano method book for adults who teach themselves, built on the same order as these lessons: sound first, then the hand, then the page. A free note-reading practice app is also in development. Both are works in progress, and anyone on my email list hears first. Join the list or see the books and gear I recommend now.
The first steps, the right instrument and how to practice, in one free PDF from Online Piano University.
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Yes. Adults of every age learn to play, and the course is designed to be paused, repeated and returned to. Your goal can be as simple as one favorite song.
Many people find it enjoyable and calming. I am a pianist and a teacher, not a physician, so for any health question please ask your doctor.
One with 88 weighted keys, a stable stand or bench and headphones if you want quiet. The gear page has my recommendations.
Yes. The free course here is unhurried, uses large clear music on screen, and you can pause and repeat any lesson. You can also send a recording and get a personal written answer from me.
Other decades: Your 20s · Your 30s · Your 40s · Your 50s · Your 60s · All ages
Online Piano University is run by one teacher. I read every message and listen to every recording myself.
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maria@onlinepianouniversity.com
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