Josh Cohen School of Music | Piano Lessons in Melbourne, Victoria

teachers

Josh Cohen

Gideon Preiss

Jacquie Chia

Claire Madden

Gabby Troup

Our teachers’ broad experience allows them to efficiently assess the different needs and aspirations of students across a wide range of ages and abilities. Each teacher specialises in varying styles and has a unique teaching method and approach. All of our teachers have obtained degrees in music from Austalia’s leading universities, specialising in performance of piano. They are registered with the Victorian Institute of Teaching or hold a Working With Children card.

Josh Cohen (BMus) | modern, jazz + classical | teenagers + adults

Since 1992, Josh's musical experiences have allowed him to develop a broad knowledge of stylistic nuances and technique. He completed his examinations in Pianoforte (AMEB) at an early age and completed a Bachelor of Music at Monash University in 2007, majoring in performance of Jazz and Popular Piano.

Josh performs regularly in solo and group environments at many of Melbourne’s most prestigious venues. He has performed with many bands in a range of styles over the years including Monsoon Moon and My Private Dinosaur. In 2010, Josh organised a sold-out tribute night to the band Radiohead at the Old Melbourne Gaol which featured a full band, string quartet and fifteen-piece choir. This year his focus has shifted to a similar ensemble with original compositions.

Having taught privately for nine years, Josh excels in guiding students of all levels through a varied repertoire. His down-to-earth and relaxed approach ensures that students feel comfortable in expressing and achieving their musical aspirations.

Claire Madden (BMus/BTeach) | classical | all ages

With over seven years teaching piano both privately and as a primary school music teacher, Claire has a wealth of experience to draw upon. She completed a Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Melbourne in 2009 and currently teaches at various primary schools throughout Melbourne.

Music has been an important aspect of Claire’s life from an early age and she believes that the key to learning is engagement and enthusiasm. In every lesson, Claire endeavors to set a collaborative, positive tone between herself and her students. She encourages students to undertake AMEB examinations and always ensures that the learning experience is memorable and enjoyable.

Jacquie Chia (BMus) | classical | all ages

Jacquie completed her Bachelor of Music in 2010 at the Faculty of the VCA majoring in Classical Piano. During her studies, she performed in the VCA's lunchtime concert series held both on campus and at various venues around Melbourne. She was also the recipient of the Music Lovers' Society Award and was invited to perform at their end of year concert.

Jacquie has taught privately for over five years and specialises in teaching classical piano to students of all ages. She believes in a flexible teaching approach that takes into account a student’s natural inclinations and interests without neglecting the necessary fundamentals. Her warm and friendly demeanour encourages all students to strive for their musical ambitions in a non-intimidating and relaxed environment.

Gideon Preiss (BMus) | modern + jazz | teenagers + adults

Gideon is a Melbourne-based pianist and educator who was heavily influenced by jazz greats at an early age. Through many years of training with some of Melbourne’s most renowned jazz pianists, Gideon has established himself within the local scene performing and recording regularly during the last decade. Audio recordings include Phrase's 'Clockwork' (2009), Husky’s 'Quiet Little Rage' (2008), SIB’s 'Drifting Part One' (2008) and the Traffik EP 'The Soul Of The Streets' (2009). Gideon has also performed with Jackson Jackson and Kanye West.

Since completing his music degree, majoring in the performance of Jazz Piano at Monash University in 2007, Gideon has been focusing on various artistic channels and creative projects throughout Melbourne and Australia. He has taught privately for many years in both a public and private forum.

Gabby Troup (BMus) | classical + modern | all ages

Gabby’s love of music began when she commenced piano lessons at the age of seven and has flourished into a deep appreciation for both classical and contemporary music. She sat both practical and theoretical examinations through the AMEB before completing a Bachelor of Music at the University of Melbourne in 2010, majoring in performance of Classical Piano. During 2011, she will be furthering her academic pursuit, studying honours in Musicology.

Gabby believes the music classroom should be a place of enthusiasm and positivity. By emphasising essential fundamentals coupled with her down-to-earth teaching approach, students are guided to fully express their own musicality.

Gabby has performed at public and private events around Melbourne including performances at the National Gallery of Victoria. She has also accompanied various choirs and instrumentalists for AMEB examinations.