I teach piano in-person (with full vaccination) in San Jose near Campbell and Los Gatos, as well as motivated online students. Please note that I do not offer in-home lessons. Before contacting me, please make sure to check my location in the Union and Camden area of San Jose to ensure it works for you.
I take pride in providing customized learning and music experiences for each unique student. In fact, my expertise in technique, theory, and piano repertoire guarantees that you will progress faster with me than other teachers. I teach all levels from beginners to college entry, and I coach students for performance exams and competitions. I am comfortable teaching both classical and rock piano, as I have classical training (BA classical piano performance, 10 years of private lessons with a Rachmaninoff expert, advanced studies in piano pedagogy, studied at Berklee College of Music), and I also compose crossover music and play with local bands.
My students receive a well-rounded curriculum that includes theory, technique, and repertoire. I provide each student with customized lessons based on their strengths and weaknesses and also provide detailed practice instructions. As a result, my students consistently meet their learning goals and make clear and rapid progress.
My studio is equipped with a six-foot-long grand piano, a Stage 2 Nord Synthesizer, and an upright Baldwin. I typically teach students aged 7-14, but I also work with motivated adults. I offer multiple formal and informal performance opportunities throughout the year, including recitals in a formal hall and small performances on my grand piano.
As someone with a lifelong passion for piano, I am dedicated to sharing my love of music with my students. Whether you are a beginner or a Chopin lover, I'm happy to teach you the beauty of music and the joy of playing.
Musical style:
Classical, Pop, Jazz, I can make recommendations
Service location:
Remotely
Service Reviews
4.5
52 reviews
Service as described
3.9
Communication
4.6
Punctuality
4.9
JF
John F.
Toby is an exceptional and meticulous instructor! After completing two lessons with her, I sense that I'm advancing significantly. I strongly suggest her.
May 11, 2022
CG
Christopher G.
Toby Samantha's piano classes are exceptional thanks to her exceptional abilities in organization, expertise, and tolerance. I strongly suggest her.
March 18, 2022
AS
Amanda S.
After losing touch with piano for many years, I have decided to pick it up again. During our first meeting, Toby witnessed my playing and was able to recommend pieces suitable for my level. She listened to my preferences and made recommendations accordingly, allowing me to select a piece that I was interested in working on. The piece she suggested that I am currently practicing aligns perfectly with my criteria: it is challenging enough to work on techniques, while still being an appropriate level for me. Toby's expertise extends beyond piano instruction; she also teaches music theory and even performed a beautiful piece she composed. In addition, she acquainted me with pieces by various composers. Toby is capable of teaching both beginners and advanced students. Working with her has brought back my love for music and improved my skills. I am excited to continue my piano lessons with her and play more music!
January 5, 2022
MB
Melissa B.
Ms. Tory (Matoush Melodies) has been teaching my daughter Piano since August 2021. She takes extra steps to ensure that the children enjoy their learning experience. Every time there is a new song, she provides them with various options so that the children can select what they want to learn. Additionally, she is exceptionally kind to the children. My daughter frequently tells me how much she adores her teacher.
December 13, 2021
MT
Matthew T.
In December of last year, my seven-year-old daughter resumed her piano lessons via Zoom with Ms. Toby. She had taken a six-month break due to Covid-19. We are grateful to have Ms. Toby during this challenging time. Ms. Toby is knowledgeable and skilled in playing the piano. Her lessons are encouraging, approachable, and patient. Ms. Toby tailors the lessons to suit my daughter's pace and interests by combining theory, finger skills, and music playing in each session. My daughter can now learn a new song in just two to three classes, and she always looks forward to the next one. I am thrilled to see her progress with each lesson.
