As a piano pedagogue, I believe that music education should be holistic, nurturing not only technical and artistic skills but also creativity, self-expression, and emotional development. My teaching approach draws from a rich blend of traditions, including both the Russian and American piano schools, as well as Slavic and Middle Eastern musical cultures. In addition to my classical training, my deep engagement with jazz has been a fundamental part of my academic journey. My first thesis at the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory was titled Jazz Traditions in Academic Music through the Art of Kapustin, where I studied the intersection of jazz and classical music through the work of the renowned composer and pianist Nikolai Kapustin. This research gave me a thorough understanding of jazz's stylistic elements and its integration into academic music, and it continues to inform my teaching and performance practice. This background uniquely equips me to deliver comprehensive jazz instruction alongside traditional piano studies.

By integrating these diverse influences, I aim to provide a comprehensive and multifaceted piano education. While the Russian and American schools may offer different methods, their combined strengths enable me to offer a well-rounded educational experience that fosters both technical mastery and artistic growth in students. The Russian piano school emphasizes technical precision and rigorous discipline, focusing on finger strength, dexterity, and virtuosic technique. It also places great importance on emotional depth, interpretation, and expression. These foundations are essential for any pianist aiming for mastery. Alongside this technical rigor, the Russian tradition instills a strong background in music theory, including ear training, harmony, counterpoint, and form analysis. I firmly believe that these elements are crucial for developing a deep and well-rounded understanding of music, allowing students to interpret compositions with greater insight.

On the other hand, the American piano school brings a refreshing emphasis on individualism, encouraging students to explore a wide range of musical styles, from classical to jazz, popular music, and beyond. This approach nurtures versatility and a personal connection to the music, allowing for a more relaxed and natural technical style that fosters artistic freedom. This emphasis on creativity and stylistic diversity enables students to discover their unique voices and express themselves with confidence and authenticity.

By combining these approaches, I strive to cultivate a balanced and adaptable teaching style that supports the development of the whole musician. My pedagogical methods are rooted in technical proficiency, but I am equally committed to nurturing each student’s personal and emotional growth as a performer. I guide students toward a personal connection with their repertoire, encouraging them to think critically about their interpretations and to explore a range of stylistic approaches. By drawing on the strengths of both the Russian and American piano traditions, I seek to develop well-rounded musicians who can confidently navigate a wide range of musical challenges, while cultivating a deep and meaningful connection to their art.