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Beyond the Piano

Practicing a solo instrument can be an isolating experience, but what you learn in life impacts you as a musician and as a human in this ever-changing world.

At the Seattle Piano Institute, we incorporate a variety of workshops and seminars designed to expand each student’s musicianship and broaden their knowledge of the world in a fun and interactive way.

Previous workshops include:

Moving Musicians

with Alethea Alexander and Paul Moore. With bravery, humility, a sense of humor, and curiosity, we explore intersections between music and movement.

Expanding the Canon of Music: Exploring Music from Africa and its Diaspora

with Dr. Chapman Nyaho. Dr. Nyaho’s presentation features piano music by composers of African descent from the African continent, the Caribbean, Europe, and the America.

Instrumental Curiosities and Computer-generated Sounds

with Dr. Marcin Paczkowski. This presentation features a variety of instruments used in the 20th and 21st century including computer-based approaches to performing music.

Mindfulness and Performance

with Claire Hipkins LSWAIC, Director of Student Wellness at UW Athletics. This discussion provides insights into using mindfulness to improve your performance.

SPI is a fun and engaging camp that allows pianists to have fun with peers while having an engaging and intriguing experience to grow musical skills. I had so much fun in both of my sessions in SPI and continue to be grateful for all the valuable insights and coaching lessons that were given to me by talented musicians and professionals.
— Tiffany (Student, Session 1, 2025)