Ava GabouryEver tried playing piano but ended up sounding like a clumsy elephant stepping on keys? Yep, that was me not too long ago. My piano journey began (and promptly ended) with a valiant yet misguided attempt at our last team-building event.
After many YouTube piano tutorials, I thought I was on my way to becoming the next concert pianist. Until the Waterview team told me my piano playing sounded so chaotic, it could evacuate a building quicker than a skunk’s spray.
Clearly, YouTube tutorials and sheer enthusiasm wouldn’t cut it. So if you, like me, want to play the piano without sounding like a catfight, then this article is for you!
I’ve scoured Vancouver to find the top piano lessons that welcome anyone and everyone, regardless of whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your skills. Here’s my list of all the best places for piano lessons in Vancouver.
| How much does it cost to take piano lessons in Vancouver? If you want to take piano lessons in Vancouver expect to spend at least $40 an hour. This price is just an estimate and will vary depending on the experience of the piano teacher, the location, lesson length and more. |
How We Chose
1. Torey Zachary Piano Studio
Address: 2668 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2G3, Canada
Contact Details: +16044179520
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 3 PM to 9 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday – 3 PM to 8 PM
Friday – 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Website: Torey Zachary Piano Studio
Torey at Torey Zachary Piano Studio has over 35 years playing and two decades of teaching the piano and has already taught all ages of students.
Whether you’re just starting to figure out where middle C is or you’re preparing to dazzle at the Royal Conservatory of Music exams, she’s got your back.
Each lesson with Torey is like having your own musical tailor—she crafts the session just for you. Into Beethoven? She’s got you. More of a Billie Eilish fan? No problemo.
And for the kids? She doesn’t just hand them a book and hope for the best. Oh no, the little Mozarts in the making get a practice swag bag! We’re talking goodies and gadgets that make mastering the piano more of a treat than a chore.
However, getting lessons with Torey isn’t all that easy. You’ve got to apply to be considered for lessons, but some students of hers told me it makes it feel all the more exclusive.
Pros
- Piano learning games & resources
- Recitals & events
- Online/in-person classes
- From ages 5+
Cons
- Must apply to be considered for lessons
Customer Reviews
Patient and understanding teacher
“I was apprehensive to start learning piano as an adult but Torey made me feel so at ease. She is such a patient and understanding teacher! Couldn’t recommend her more.”
– Niamh Byrne, Google Reviews
Understanding and able to make lessons productive
“Our 10-year old has been learning piano from Torey for just over a year and it’s been a wonderful experience. Torey is able to hold our son to a high standard in his playing when he’s feeling engaged and motivated and yet she’s also very understanding and able to make lessons productive even when he’s been finding it hard to practice. We’ve really seen our kid’s playing and relationship with music deepen as a result.”
– Bhavana Vahi, Google Reviews
2. Dio Piano School
Address: 1549 Marine Dr #305, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1H9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-446-1089
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 2PM to 9PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Website: Dio Piano School
Dio Piano School is ideal for those deeply interested in classical piano, offering exceptional instruction, personalized learning paths, and high-end pianos.
From what I’ve observed, the instructors here are passionate, piano-obsessed maestros who are all about getting you from hitting random keys to making those keys sing, no matter if you’re five or fifty-five.
They’re big on building a solid foundation—music theory and technique—and students actually put on a performance here.
And for all of you dreaming about Royal Conservatory of Music accolades, from what I’ve heard, Dio’s might be your golden ticket. They’re all up in that curriculum, with Steinway pianos that are basically the Rolls Royce of pianos.
So, if you’re itching to unleash your inner Elton John and dive into some pop, jazz, or, dare I say, rock, you might have to look elsewhere. They are classical music aficionados to the core.
And, given the Steinway brag and the top-tier teaching squad, the cost of their piano lessons is not pocket change.
Pros
- Performance opportunities
- Builds a strong musical foundation
- Royal Conservatory prep
- Steinway pianos
Cons
- Limited genre focus
- Cost
Customer Reviews
Exceptional piano education and nurturing environment
“As a parent, I wanted to extend my deepest thanks for the exceptional piano education and nurturing environment you provide. Your dedication to excellence in music education has not only enriched our child’s life but has also brought a profound joy and appreciation for music into our family. Your school stands out as the best in Vancouver, and we feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of your musical community. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and for being such a positive influence in our child’s growth. I would also like to mention that you have the highest standards in piano teaching. The quality of your instruction and attention to detail in every session is truly exemplary. This outstanding level of education clearly demonstrates your commitment and expertise in the art of piano. With heartfelt gratitude. Helga”
– Helga alerasoul Google Review
More motivated now when it comes to piano practice
“I can’t say enough how thankful I am getting my son enrolled at Dio. My son started taking piano classes late May this year. He could barely recognize notes 3 months ago but is now working on rcm 2 exam and also able to understand music. I found it really helpful is that , at Dio, they often arrange recitals/competitions where students get more chance to perform what they have learned. Music is an Art, u share your feelings and stories by performing to the audience ! My son is also doing theory class in group , he struggled at first but I can see that he improved a lot on sight reading and is able to decode the piece he works on. He also get more motivated now when it comes to piano practice as he knows other kids are also doing the same so he is not alone : )
Thanks Hiva & Dio and all the amazing staff!!”
– Vicki Google Review
3. Mermi Music Academy
Address: 117 E 15th St E, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2P7, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-240-4263
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 3:30 PM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 3 PM
Website: Mermi Music Academy
I spoke with a few of the instructors at Mermi Music Academy to get some insight on their teaching styles and even took a trial lesson myself.
Shania’s all about hitting those contemporary vibes, making you feel like the next pop sensation. Maite, on the flip side, is your go-to for diving deep into the classical piano world.
And Winnie? She’s your digital guru for piano lessons, proving that yes, you can totally vibe and thrive in online lessons.
From what I noted from my own trial lesson, they understand that the fun factor is key to keeping you glued to the keyboard. It doesn’t matter if you’re barely tall enough to reach the pedals or if you’re jumping back into your childhood dream.
And from what I’ve heard from different students, they’ve got tons of recitals and opportunities—perfect for showing off those piano-playing skills.
But if I had to nitpick, snagging a lesson felt a bit like playing musical chairs, but when I finally got a lesson booked, the lesson went smoothly.
Pros
- Variety of instructors
- Performance opportunities
- Fun and educational lessons
Cons
- Scheduling difficulties
Customer Reviews
Ms. Maite is exceptional, skillfully maintaining her interest throughout each lesson
“About a year ago, we made the transition to Mermi School of Music, and we’ve been thoroughly impressed ever since. Not only has our daughter’s learning journey flourished, but the overall experience with the school has exceeded our expectations. The owner is truly remarkable, radiating genuine enthusiasm for her students’ progress in a manner that makes learning enjoyable. Continuously brainstorming ways to enhance the learning environment, she fosters a supportive atmosphere where children thrive. The school exudes warmth and a strong sense of community. Our daughter’s teacher, Ms. Maite is exceptional, skillfully maintaining her interest throughout each lesson. Without hesitation, we highly recommend Mermi School of Music to anyone in search of a top-notch musical education.
Lisa M”
Mermi possesses a remarkable talent for connecting with her students
“Mermi has been an exceptional piano teacher for my daughter. From the very first lesson, my daughter was captivated by Mermi’s warm and engaging teaching style. Mermi possesses a remarkable talent for connecting with her students, making each lesson not just a learning experience, but a joyous event. Her passion for music is contagious, and it’s clear in the way my daughter’s eyes light up whenever she talks about her piano classes. What sets Mermi apart is her ability to tailor her teaching to suit my daughter’s individual learning style. She’s patient, kind, and incredibly supportive, nurturing my daughter’s growing love for music with every lesson. Under Mermi’s guidance, my daughter has not only improved in her piano skills but has also developed a deeper appreciation for music as an art form. We’re so grateful for Mermi’s dedication and the positive influence she has had on my daughter. Thank you, Mermi, for being such a wonderful and inspiring teacher!”
– Sarah Ragab Google Review
4. Beethoven at Home
Address: 170-422 Richards Street Vancouver, BC
V6B 2Z4
Contact Details: +1 800-380-0850
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Website: Beethoven at Home
Beethoven at Home obviously doesn’t actually involve conjuring the spirit of Ludwig himself for piano lessons. Instead, I chatted with Neal, who makes learning piano cosy and convenient—right from your own living room.
Neal’s got this whole spiel about choosing piano teachers with the sort of care you’d expect when selecting a fine wine.
And from what I heard from various students, the instructors here don’t just know a few chords, but rather they have credentials and the kind of teaching skills that make you believe maybe, just maybe, you could give ol’ Ludwig a run for his money.
However, from what I noted, you don’t exactly know who your piano teacher is until they show up. But the good news? If the teacher is not a good fit for you, you’re not stuck in a musical mismatch—they’re all about finding you the right fit.
Of course, this kind of personalized, come-to-you service comes at a pricier cost than an average piano lesson. And note that those who like being able to have performances and recitals will miss out on such opportunities.
Pros
- In-person & Online lessons
- High quality piano teachers
- Can change piano teachers
Cons
- Limited interaction with instructor before lessons
- No performances and recitals
- Expensive
Customer Reviews
Students get to find a teacher that works with them
“I am a piano teacher and I listed myself on Beethoven at Home since the summer of 2021. it has been a really great experience with the owner (Neal) and my students. The service is easy to use for teachers because they handle the marketing and billing. You get to arrange your own schedule with the students. They also require a background check on new teachers so students know the teachers are safe to be around kids. They pay for travel if the teacher is willing to travel to the student’s house. Students get to find a teacher that works with them. So far *knock on wood*, it’s been great using Beethoven at Home and I have really good relationships with students and their families”.
– Stella Tsai Google Review
Teachers can pinpoint their playing problems and make corrections online
“I am a retired professional oboist and I find teaching through Beethoven at Home to be a convenient and effective method both for me and for my students. Technology has advanced to the point where, for the most part, you can pinpoint their playing problems and make corrections online. The few times I’ve had to have direct contact (for repairing an instrument, for instance) the student was able to get to my house or I was able to set up an appointment with a repair person I knew. BAH is easy to work with and has always been available for questions or clarifications. And when the Covid isolation is over, no doubt many students will return to in person lessons, but I do think many will decide to continue online.”
– Betsy Raum Google Review
5. Ben Wong Music Studio
Contact Details: +1 778-847-7812
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Website: Ben Wong Music Studio
Ben Wong Music Studio is perfect for aspiring musicians looking to level up their skills in a supportive and dynamic environment. From chatting with students to sitting in on a class, they’re all about mastering music with a comprehensive toolkit approach.
Under the guidance of Ben Wong, who could easily be considered the Yoda of piano teachers, students get a mix of music theory, rhythm training, and sight-singing, all designed to build a solid musical foundation.
And the studio’s focus extends beyond just playing pieces to encompass preparing for RCM exams, choir auditions, and even university auditions, offering mock exams for the best prep.
And for those aiming to improve their sight-reading, the studio turns you into a pro, making you as comfortable with scores as you are with scrolling through your phone.
However, securing a lesson with Ben Wong might require some flexibility due to his busy schedule.
Pros
- Exam and audition prep
- Strong sight reading focus
- Comprehensive piano education
Cons
- Teacher availability
Customer Reviews
Ben Wong has this uncanny skill to understand my learning style
” I’ve had several teacher’s over the year’s. They were all good teachers but l always left my lessons more confused and disenchanted about my ability to learn and progress as a musician. Then l met Ben Wong. Ben has this uncanny skill to understand my learning style and he breaks things down in such a way that things actually makes sense ( gone are the days of me feeling worse about my musical education after a lesson ) lt has been replaced by an excitement to learn and more importantly l’m actually seeing improvement in my playing and retention of knowledge. If you are looking to truly grow as a musician l highly recommend Ben Wong. Simply put he is the best teacher l have ever had.”
– Only Gets Better Entertainment Google Review
He’s amazing, super friendly, very knowledgeable and great at explaining things for me to understand
“I’ve played piano for a year and a half now, finally decided to get lessons from Ben Wong who I met through a friend. He’s taught me so much already, slowing down my practicing for parts I’m trying to play fast has really upped my game, before I was trying to speed through stuff too fast and wasn’t able to play it properly but with his help and knowledge he’s helped me understand how to properly learn pieces that before I wouldn’t have been able to learn at my current skill level. He’s amazing, super friendly, very knowledgeable and great at explaining things for me to understand. If you’re trying to to learn piano, this is the guy to learn from. Thank you sensei. The best in the business!”
– Shawn Michael McHattie Google Review
