I've been yearning to get back into music after giving it up during high school. I decided to opt for the piano and thought I could swing it on my own in 2016. However, I soon found myself dusting my piano regularly b/c I soon gave up on it (learning on your own was not for me). Fast forward to a few months before my 30th, I made it my mission to 1) make the moves/sacrifices needed to learn and 2) find a piano teacher/format that fit the bill. I spent an extensive amount of time looking for a piano teacher in a 15-20 mile radius of me and came across Chatalbash Lessons. Since the first interaction, it was a pleasurable experience. Amy, Sara's helper, provided all the information I inquired about (she entertained some silly questions I had w/ extreme professionalism). This, to me, was a great indicator of how Chatalbash operated. After a healthy back and forth between Amy, I decided to move forward and schedule an interview to ensure that Sara was the perfect fit for me. Right off the bat, I knew Sara would be someone I would love to learn from. She is very considerate, kind, and more importantly possesses the interpersonal skills I was looking for, which to me, makes for an excellent teacher. She demands excellence and expects her students to reach their potential without being harsh, condescending, or overreaching. In the past, at least during my experiences with other music teachers in school, some would write students off if they felt that they were not "worth" the time. I'm now 4 months into learning this wonderful instrument and I could not be more pleased that I choose wisely (and got it right the first time). My biggest worry was running into the same personality I've seen in school, which would have potentially turned me off to learning/prolonging learning. The lab format is brilliant. I originally thought it would hinder my ability to learn/collect feedback, but I was completely wrong. Sara periodically goes around to the 4 of us (max of 4 students per class) to see where we are at, if we need any guidance, and just to make sure we're set. It's also quite lovely to see the age ranges of the students in the class as well; teaching children, teenagers, AND adults takes many different approaches/levels of patience; Sara seems to innately possess this. Outside of the weekly lesson itself, Sara extends herself to her students by having an "open door", via text message, essentially 24/7. I've found myself countless times recording myself, sending it to her for feedback (at all hours of the day, and getting a response in a prompt fashion). This itself has been amazing for the learning process and truly has enabled me to advance rather quickly. All in all, if you're serious about learning the piano, looking to go at a momentum that works for you/your lifestyle, Sara/Chatalbash Lesson is the ideal choice for you. Just remember the success in learning, that you set forth for yourself, not only comes from the weekly lesson but outside as well. If you put in the time, Sara/Chatalbash Lessons will help you reach your goals at a rate that you did not think was possible. read more

I had been looking for a piano teacher for my 9-year-old daughter for quite a while, I had finally received a recommendation to Sara @ Chatalbash Lessons and am super happy that we have met and proceeded with lessons. I will start with the initial process. Thorough and very transparent. Which is very respectable since everyone's time is so precious. The online interest form is easy to use, and you quickly received a text from Sara's helper, Amy, who sets up an initial free lesson with Sara. It was at this lesson that I instantly knew Sara would be a great teacher for my daughter. The first lesson was a one on one with Sara where she spent time to really understand why Noelle wanted lessons (and not why Mom wanted her to have lessons ;) - which really was they start of a beautiful relationship between the two of them. I was able to sit in the studio for this lesson, and I am so happy I could, because just hearing how Sara interacted with Noelle, I knew she would love Sara. She connected on a level with her pretty much instantly. Allowed her to recognize she was a little nervous and that was ok, that she would learn but also have a lot of fun. She was able to get a good understanding of what Noelle wanted and some of her favorite songs she had a goal to play. I remember leaving that day and Noelle saying, "Mommy she's so nice! When is my next lesson?" And that's where the story began. We were able to find a weekly spot that worked well. The lessons moving forward were / are drop off. I could easily sit outside and wait for my daughter and watch, as the studio has a large glass window. Sara uses a notebook for communicating homework and what students should work on. Sara is very good with reaching out to me with some extra things I should know, which is much appreciated. And if I hadn't thought the experience was good enough, we attended our first recital in June of 2022. She hosts the recital in her beautiful yard and runs it like a potluck. Feels so family oriented. I loved Sara's message at the beginning of the recital "Do your best, I know it can be nerve wracking, but YOU GOT THIS. If you mess up, start over, so what! You know how you play at home and in lessons and so do I! Oh, and TAKE YOUR BOW!" It was absolutely beautiful to see that type of support. Sara outlines all the commitment responsibilities of the student's part thoroughly and transparently. There are no surprises when it comes to that. I am so happy we found Sara, and highly recommend her and her studio to all! Considering starting lessons myself ;) read more

5 STARS FOR CHATALBASH LESSONS! One day while leaving a barber shop, my husband looked up and saw the Chatalbash Lessons studio. Knowing I've always dreamed of playing the piano, he signed me up for an introductory lesson as a Mother's Day gift. What was he thinking??? Did he really think I could learn THE PIANO at 56 YEARS OLD???!!! We didn't even own a piano!!! With much apprehension, I went to the introductory lesson and met Sara. Right from the start, she seemed friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and professional. She explained how lab lessons worked; she teaches a maximum of four students at a time who each have their own keyboard and headphones. She attends to each student as they need help throughout the session. The lab setting affords the students to learn and practice at their own pace without a teacher hovering over them - makes the lesson much less stressful! Sara is also available via text or email throughout the week in case of piano emergencies (ha!), and to answer questions and offer encouragement. From that first meeting, I just knew Sara and her teaching style would be a good fit for me. My feelings were reinforced after meeting several other students, some who have been with Sara for years. They all said how much they enjoy the lessons and how much fun Sara makes it for them. So here I am, almost two months in, and I am loving the piano! We purchased the digital keyboard that was recommended and I practice EVERY DAY. It definitely is a commitment, and while Sara never demands perfection (in fact, she always says she expects us to make mistakes - again, making the experience very stress-free), she does try to instill the importance of practice and dedication to learning. If you have any doubts, don't. Go for it. Learning the piano is a wonderful, rewarding gift you can give to yourself and Sara Chatalbash makes it fun and easy. I am finally fulfilling my life-long dream! read more

It's been 2 years since I made the decision to reach out to Sara for my free first trial lesson at Chatalbash Lessons and I can undoubtedly say that not once have I ever regretted it. I started as a beginner with Sara back in the summer of 2016 and I've progressed much further than I ever would have on my own. She's done a terrific job in helping me learn the fundamentals of playing piano as well as the music that I enjoy playing. Despite the hard work and dedication that comes with learning and playing the piano, Sara's guidance makes learning piano easy and fun. She's everything you would want in a experienced piano teacher. Sara is a exceptionally talented pianist who's patient and understanding when it comes to learning the piano but she will make sure that you're focused on practicing and making progress. She's always upbeat and excited to help her students learn and love the piano. Sara is an excellent teacher and an extraordinary pianist. (Seriously, you should hear her play.) She tailors her lessons based on her student's interests, skill level and goals and she'll work with your schedule to fit in a weekly lesson time as best as she can. She happily teaches kids, teens and adults that are willing to learn and take their lessons seriously. Regardless of your skill level, if you're interested in learning to play piano or looking to improve your piano skills, Sara of Chatalbash Lessons is the right person for the job. I highly recommend Chatalbash Lessons to any aspiring piano player looking to learn or improve their piano skills. You can find out more information on her website at, https://www.chatalbashlessons.com/ read more

Chatalbash Lessons is a great place to learn piano! The teacher, Sara Chatalbash, is wonderful! The lab format allows students to learn at their own pace. Students practice with headphones in a lab setting as Sara moves from student to student to offer instruction and feedback. Sara is incredibly supportive as she walks students through each step of the learning process. One of the great benefits of taking lessons with Sara is the opportunity to perform in front of others. Students are given the option (no pressure) to perform in front of their fellow students at small recitals. I was nervous and almost backed out of the first recital I was scheduled to perform at but decided to go through with it and had a wonderful time! Sara and my fellow students were incredibly supportive. I was encouraged enough by this experience to sign up for the next smaller recital before going to perform at a larger recital this past June. The recitals are one of the best features of taking lessons with Sara because they give you something to a goal, something to strive toward. But if recitals are not your thing, don't worry. There is absolutely no pressure. I've learned a great deal in the few short months that I've been taking lessons, and I expect to learn a great deal more in the coming months. If you're looking to take piano lessons in a fun, pressure-free environment, look no further than Chatalbash Lessons! read more

Sara of Chatalbash Lessons has a way about her that is comforting and patient with her students, but at the same time, a bit strict in her approach. In my opinion, this philosophy will go a long way towards achieving a future goal that a student may have, both musically and with life in general. Sara is extremely patient while a student is learning a new piece, and so very excited for the student when he or she "gets it". If a mistake happens during a performance, she takes time to offer encouragement for the next time. My 13 year old son has only been with Sara's studio since November 2017, having started his learning "career" with a local music store only 1 1/2 years prior to that. With Sara's guidance, my son is having fun learning, but at the same time, is pushing himself a bit further than he may have at that music store. Chatalbash Lessons Studio is like part of your family - I am very happy we made the switch and would highly recommend Sara Chatalbash for your student. read more

I thoroughly enjoy taking lessons with Sara. She is so thoughtful, genuine, and is clearly passionate about teaching. She loves what she does, loves playing the piano, and music. She is organized, and always ready to start the lessons. I gained so much confidence from her, and found a new love for piano. It brought joy into my life, and made me even more passionate about music. Sara brings new ideas to the table to help you learn the music such as breaking up the chords, taking it measure by measure, or going through the technique, but she helps you feel the music in ways you would have never thought! Taking lessons with Sara is so much more than just learning the notes, you learn so much about yourself, and as a musician. I highly recommend Jto any beginner, intermediate, or advanced student who is interested in taking piano lessons! Thank you so much Sara. read more

I signed up my daughter Sonia a year ago for piano lessons and I'm amaze with the progress that she has made in such a short time. She said her teacher is fun and funny. I think Miss Sara has a great personality and her lab work approach allow each student to progress at their own pace. The price is also reasonable and there are different days and time for the lessons so you can choose a time that fits you busy schedule. The students work on music or songs that they like so there more engages and not bored learning the same thins as everyone else. My daughter chooses her favorite songs to learn and play for the recitals. Of all the different music teacher out there, I'm happy I was referred to and that I choose Chatalbash Lessons because it made my daughter more interested in learning and playing the piano. read more

I have been taking lessons with Sara for almost 2 years now. When I first started I pretty much knew nothing about playing the piano. I chose Sara because she not only teaches children but adults as well. Sara has a great personality that can mesh with any age group. She has a very effective way of getting her teaching point across and making sure you not only pick up on what she is teaching you but that you improve each and every week. She also puts on a recital every Christmas and a backyard get together every summer as a way to help build self confidence and show friends and family what you've learned. I wouldn't be close to as good as I have gotten without her guidance. If you are serious about learning to play the piano you won't find a better choice for your teacher anywhere. read more

My daughter Sonia has been taking piano classes with Sarah for a year now and she's enjoying her time learning new keys, songs etc. Her interest in piano started with simply piano at home where she learned the basic keys . We were then referred to Chatalbash by my friend because she love the setting and environment and also the one on one lessons. In that way each student gets to learn and progress in their own pace. Sonia has shown progress through her independent practice skills. The lab lessons helped her to become better at practicing as she move faster through her music. read more

My daughter has been taking lessons with Sara for just about a year. It has been a great experience for my daughter as it has not only taught her skills of playing the piano but has also showed her how to perform in front of others. Sara has done a terrific job in teaching. She is very patient and accommodating with the flexible schedules of family life. I look forward to her teaching my daughter for a long time to come. read more

Sara is an amazing piano instructor. When I first started taking piano lessons at her studio, I had no piano experience. However, it has been only 9 months. I'm able to play songs and read sheet music. I love her teaching style and dedication to my progress. She has done an amazing job teaching so many people of all ages how to play the piano. Sara is fantastic! read more

In just three months, I went from no experience at all to reading music, playing longer pieces, and performing on stage. Sara makes lessons fun and enjoyable while also pushing you to be better by holding you accountable to a strict practice schedule and weekly progress reviews. Looking forward to continuing lessons with Sara in 2019! read more

Sara is an excellent teacher. As an adult, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to learn piano at all, but with her guidance I quickly caught on/could read sheet music. She is very hands-on and provides constructive feedback. I really appreciated lessons with her and would highly recommend her to anyone who wants to learn piano! read more

Sara is an amazing pianist and has taught me so much in such a short amount of time. She's passionate and really puts forth such an immense amount of effort. From organizing recitals and potlucks, to finding you sheet music for what you want to play, Sara does it all. I highly recommend her for any skill level read more

Sara is very talented and skilled when it comes to playing the piano. She's able to get a quick understanding of a student's level of playing, what they want to accomplish, and she's able to help them get there. I'd say the lessons here are a great deal for any student wanting to learn how to play piano. read more