Sonya
Piano
About Sonya
Sonya Shalyagina is an experienced piano teacher, performer, and composer with a diverse background in music education and performance. She holds an Associate of Arts from the Moscow Conservatory, where she specialized in piano performance, pedagogy, and collaborative piano, and a Bachelor of Arts in Film Scoring from Berklee College of Music. With over seven years of experience, Sonya has taught private and group piano lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, focusing on making lessons fun, engaging, and tailored to each student’s needs. Her teaching integrates music theory, aural skills, and performance preparation, creating a supportive environment where students can explore their musicality and showcase their talents in recitals.
Q&A with Sonya
Which musician would you like to play with?
Martha Argerich, Efim Bronfman
Which musician has influenced you the most?
Sergei Rachmaninoff
What can you teach me better on your instrument than any other teacher?
I specialize in helping students go beyond technique to bring out musicality and storytelling in their piano playing. By creating a comfortable, supportive learning environment, I guide students in interpreting music expressively, often using visualizations, emotions, and storytelling to deepen their connection to each piece. My approach is highly adaptable, making lessons both enjoyable and personally meaningful for each student. Through a combination of empathy, creativity, and a focus on fun, I aim to inspire students to achieve their goals while discovering the joy and depth of musical expression.
How did you learn to play your instrument?
I started playing piano when I was four. I always loved the sounds of it. We used to have a grand piano at my grandparents’ home.
What equipment do you play on today?
I have native instruments komplete keyboard and an upright piano by Wurlitzer.
Which personal trait helped you the most while practicing?
Discipline and time management
What does your instrument have that others don't?
Story. My Wurlitzer piano was given by a retired LA philharmonic trumpet player which I found very cool
How do you handle children?
As a piano teacher, I handle each child with a personalized approach, recognizing that everyone learns and engages differently. I focus on really listening to each student, understanding their unique personality, interests, and learning style. By adapting lessons to suit their individual needs, I make sure they feel comfortable, supported, and motivated. My goal is to create a positive, engaging environment that encourages exploration and growth, so that every child can enjoy their learning journey and feel a sense of accomplishment in each step they take in music.
What has been your greatest experience as a musician so far?
Playing at Carnegie Hall and the Great Hall of Moscow conservatory has been one of the greatest experiences for me as a classical pianist
What was the biggest stage you played on?
Carnegie Hall, The Great Hall of Moscow conservatory.
Which record would you take with you to the desert island?
Efim Bronfman - Rachmaninoff piano concerto No 3
Besides music, what else is important in your life?
Family and close relationships
Music style(s)
ClassicalPopMusicals
Level(s) Comfortable Teaching
From beginners to advanced students
What languages can you teach in?
EnglishRussian
Bands, Projects, Notable Performances, Collaborations
I play a lot in chamber ensembles, had master classes with amazing piano professors from all over the world, had an opportunity to play a piano duo on behalf of Berklee College of music
Other Music-related work / goals
Film Composition
Accolades
I’ve successfully participated in multiple piano competitions and festivals in Russia, Italy, Germany, Estonia, USA, Finland
Personal Interests
Composing, Music Editing