Message to Future Pianists and Parents
They say we all begin somewhere, why not begin at home?
Whether a new pianist, a resuming pianist, or a parent who is seeking lessons for your child you have displayed curiosity, zeal, and a proactive approach toward reaching your goals. Already you possess the qualities any pianist needs to take the leap and start your musical journey!
Experience
Education and Training
November 2017 - Present
Private and Group Piano Instructor, Play It Forward
During the early years of college Sterling began his career as a private piano teacher for Play It Forward, a program that grants underserved families a scholarship and free piano to begin their children's piano journey. Sterling's influence has helped bring on other highly skilled teachers onto the program and the years spent with the program has provided Sterling with invaluable experience and the opportunity to make an impact.
September 2016 - 2021
Portland Community College - Portland State University
Sterling has attended Portland Community College (PCC) and Portland State University (PSU) where he studied with concert pianist Momoko Muramatsu and Dr. Julia Hwakyu Lee. Both pianists were quintessential not only to the foundation of his technical and theoretical application in his performance abilities but also to the founding of his traveling piano studio.
May 2005 - May 2016
Oregon Music Teachers Association Syllabus Levels 1-10 Examinations
From the age of 6 to the age of 17 Sterling studied under Heidi Bruno, his first piano teacher. During these years Sterling was introduced to numerous festivals, recitals, and studio classes all dedicated to the study of piano. Sterling also completed the Oregon Music Teachers Association's (OMTA) classical piano syllabus, a ten year program created for pianists to reach a high level of musical performance and theoretical understanding. Heidi also graciously contributed lessons during years of financial hardship for his family, an act of altruism that remains had a resounding effect on Sterling's life and has informed his own values as an educator.