Programs
Private lessons for every age
Two ways to study: private lessons from about age four through adulthood, and PreK classes for ages 2 to 5.
Private lessons
One student, one teacher
Private lessons have been the heart of the New York Conservatory of Music since 1998. Every student, whether a young child at a first lesson, a teenager preparing for exams, or an adult returning to a childhood instrument, studies one on one with a teacher who is a concert artist or an experienced educator.
Student and teacher choose the repertoire, pace, and goals together. The teaching follows the European conservatory tradition, and the feel is a family school. Theory and ear training are part of every lesson, not a separate class.
One teacher, one student
Weekly private lessons of 30, 45, or 60 minutes, matched to the student's age, level, and ambitions. Partner lessons with a spouse, relative, or friend can be arranged upon request.
A faculty of performing artists
Our teachers hold degrees from The Juilliard School, Yale, Eastman, and leading European conservatories, and they treat every student like family.
The stage as part of the curriculum
Students perform in our recitals at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Steinway Hall, Yamaha Artist Services, The Liederkranz Foundation, and other venues. Before student recitals, Dr. Stryjniak holds master classes where performers run through their pieces and get his coaching.
Examinations & competitions
The Conservatory prepares students individually for the RCM, ABRSM, and NYSSMA examinations. Dr. Jerzy Stryjniak personally supervises preparation for major international competitions, including the Van Cliburn and Chopin Competitions.
In person or online
Lessons take place at our Upper East Side studios, or online anywhere in the world, with the same instructors and the same standards.
Every style, seriously taught
Bach, Broadway, or bebop: classical and jazz piano, strings, brass, voice in every style, and composition, all taught with the same care.
By age
A path for every stage of musical life
Usually from age 4
Children
Private lessons usually begin around age four, though every child is different, and some are ready a little earlier or later. Children who aren't ready yet start in our PreK classes. Our teachers know how young children learn. They build real technique and a good ear, along with confidence and focus that help outside music too.
- Private Lessons
- Recital Performances
- A Complete Musical Foundation
Middle & high school
Teens
Teens get a weekly private lesson with a teacher who knows them well. They can prepare for RCM, ABRSM, and NYSSMA exams and perform in our recitals at major New York halls, which helps with conservatory and college applications.
- Private Lessons
- RCM · ABRSM · NYSSMA Preparation
- Recital Performances
All levels welcome
Adults
It's never too late to start, or to come back. Our adult students range from first-time beginners to accomplished amateurs, and professional musicians looking for additional coaching on their repertoire are welcome too. Many beginners play comfortably, and enjoy it, within a few months. Adult recitals and get-togethers run through the year.
- Private Lessons
- Adult Recitals & Social Events
- Competition & Exam Preparation
Ages 2–5? Begin in our PreK Division
The Conservatory’s youngest musicians discover music through colors, movement, rhythm, and a variety of instruments in small Sunday-morning classes. From there, children can move on to private lessons here.
Instruments offered
Find your instrument
Lessons are 30, 45, or 60 minutes, in person on the Upper East Side or online worldwide.
- Classical Piano
- Jazz Piano
- Guitar
- Bass Guitar
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Double Bass
- Brass
- Contemporary Voice
- Classical Voice
- Composition
Our studios are home to Steinway and Yamaha grand pianos. See the pianos
Not sure where to begin?
Call the office. We'll suggest a teacher and set up a free trial lesson, with a $50 refundable deposit.