
Piano Lessons in Aliso Viejo
Learn Piano with Shooka Afshar
“I specialize in Classical Piano”
About Me
I am a professional opera singer, Harvard Music Award winner, and composer with more than two decades of teaching and performing experience domestically and internationally. I hold a Master’s degree in Classical Vocal Performance from the Longy School of Music and have extensive education and training in Dalcroze Eurhythmics, a movement-based approach that deepens rhythmic understanding and musical expression. I also completed advanced training in vocal therapy and vocal anatomy at Boston Medical Center. I work with students of many ages and backgrounds, helping them develop strong technical foundations, confident musical expression, and a deeper understanding of their instrument.
My teaching integrates classical technique with modern musicianship. I teach voice, piano, flute, and composition, and I introduce students to the basics of music production using professional software such as Pro Tools. Drawing from my Dalcroze Eurhythmics background, I often incorporate body movement into lessons to help students internalize rhythm, phrasing, coordination, and musical expression.
Voice Instruction
Students develop strong vocal technique including breath control, tone production, resonance, diction, and expressive interpretation. I guide singers to understand the physical coordination of the vocal instrument and help release tension in the jaw, tongue, and throat to create a balanced, healthy sound. I work with classical repertoire, musical theater, and contemporary styles while adapting technique to the needs of each student.
Piano Instruction
Students build a strong technical foundation while exploring classical, modern, and pop repertoire. I emphasize finger technique and coordination through pedagogical materials such as Czerny and Hanon exercises, then expand into repertoire that strengthens musical interpretation, rhythm, phrasing, and expressive playing.
Young Beginners
I also work with very young students beginning around age three. For early beginners I often use the Faber piano series, which introduces rhythm, reading, coordination, and listening in a structured and engaging way. I can also adapt to other methods depending on the goals of the family.
Flute Instruction
My flute instruction follows a classical pedagogical approach focusing on breath support, tone development, articulation, and phrasing. Even beginning students develop a clear tone, proper technique, and musical awareness from the start.
For students interested in composing or recording their music, I also provide guidance in composition and the basics of music production.
I design individualized lesson plans for each student to support clear progress toward performances, auditions, competitions, or personal artistic development while building confidence and musical expression
Lesson Details
Teaching Experience
16 years
Students I Teach
Young Children (3-5 years), Children (6-12 years), Teens (13-17 years), Adults (18-65 years), Seniors (65+ years)
Music Styles
Classical, R&B/Soul, Gospel
Where I Teach
I Also Teach
Voice, Flute
Pricing
30 Minutes
$55
per lesson
45 Minutes
$80
per lesson
60 Minutes
$100
per lesson
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Studio Location
Address
Freedom Lane
Aliso Viejo, MA 02134
Teaching Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Travel Distance
Up to 25 miles from studio