Children & Teens
Lessons that are genuinely fun. Music games, creativity, and the joy of learning piano build strong fundamentals and a lasting love for the instrument from the very first lesson.
Lakewood Ranch & Sarasota
Private piano lessons in Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota with Dr. Marjorie Rahima Hohlstein. Four decades of teaching, a doctorate in piano performance, and a studio where every student is met exactly where they are.
01Lessons
Every lesson is built around your goals. Whether that's finally learning your favorite song, nailing a recital piece, or preparing for a conservatory audition. We start where you are and build toward what you want.
Lessons that are genuinely fun. Music games, creativity, and the joy of learning piano build strong fundamentals and a lasting love for the instrument from the very first lesson.
Beginning fresh or returning after many years away, you will find lessons paced to your life and designed to make real, satisfying progress. Repertoire is chosen around what you actually want to play.
Focused preparation for festivals, competitions, and advanced study that sharpens technique, interpretation, and performance confidence. Music theory tutoring is also available for AP exams, college classes, and preparing for entry to college.
Specialized programs for piano lessons for children, adult piano lessons, and music theory and audition prep.
02About your teacher
Music has been at the center of my life since I began studying piano at the age of six. Over the past four decades, I have enjoyed a career as a performer, educator, adjudicator, and mentor, helping students of all ages develop their musical abilities and discover the joy of making music.
I hold a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Piano Performance from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, with a minor in Music Theory. My performance experience includes solo, chamber, and collaborative work, and I was honored to win the concerto competition with the North Carolina Symphony. I have also presented lecture-recitals and educational programs, including research on the Jewish composer Joel Engel.
As a teacher, I believe that every student deserves an individualized approach. Some students study piano for personal enjoyment, while others pursue auditions, competitions, festivals, or advanced musical training. My goal is to help each student develop strong technical skills, musical understanding, artistic expression, and confidence at the piano.
I teach children, teens, and adults—from beginners to advanced students—in a warm, encouraging environment where students feel supported and challenged to grow. Whether you are just beginning your musical journey or returning to the piano after many years, I strive to make lessons both rewarding and inspiring.
I currently teach students in the Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota area and offer a free 30-minute trial lesson.
03From the studio
04In their words
Away from piano lessons for 60 years, I never thought I could learn again — until I met Marjorie. In just a few lessons she taught me how to practice effectively, improve my tempo, and tackle pieces I thought were impossible. Her encouragement keeps me motivated every day.
Marjorie is an exceptional teacher who combines warmth, patience, and professionalism. She creates a safe, encouraging environment where students grow in both ability and confidence. Alexandra genuinely looks forward to her lessons every week.
I’ve been studying under Dr. Marjorie’s wing for almost three years now. She has helped me build my knowledge in piano and music history, develop my musicality, and deepen my understanding of music theory. Each lesson she uses her experience to help me build my repertoire. She is a kind, charismatic and overall amazing teacher. I can’t recommend her enough for students at any level and age. My improvement in piano and music in general has been extremely significant. When I feel behind or stuck Marjorie will always pull me out with something new and make me appreciate my dedication to music.
05My Teaching Philosophy
Music is more than notes on a page. Through piano study, students learn discipline, creativity, perseverance, confidence, and the ability to express themselves through music. My goal is to help each student become not only a better pianist, but a more thoughtful and engaged musician.— Dr. Marjorie Rahima Hohlstein
06Questions
Rates depend on lesson length and how often you meet. The simplest way to begin is the free 30-minute trial lesson: reach out through the form, by email, or by phone and Dr. Hohlstein will share current rates and openings.
Most children are ready between about ages 5 and 7, once they can focus for a short lesson and recognize letters and numbers, though there is no single right age. Dr. Hohlstein keeps early lessons playful and meets each child where they are.
Yes. Whether you are starting fresh as an adult or returning after years away, lessons are paced to your life and built around the music you actually want to play.
Yes. Dr. Hohlstein teaches students from across Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, and Sarasota at her private home studio in Lakewood Ranch.
Lessons are in person at Dr. Hohlstein's private home studio in Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
Yes. Dr. Hohlstein teaches all ages and every level, from first-time beginners to advanced and conservatory-bound students, drawing on more than 40 years of teaching.
Yes. Music theory tutoring is available for AP exams, college classes, and college-entry preparation, along with focused preparation for festivals, competitions, and conservatory auditions.
Share the student's age and a little about their experience through the contact form, or call or email. Dr. Hohlstein personally replies within 48 hours to arrange your free, no-obligation 30-minute trial.
07Start playing
Tell me a little about yourself or your child. Age and piano experience are all I need to begin. I personally review every message and reply within 48 hours to arrange your complimentary 30-minute trial.
No obligation. Just a relaxed half-hour at the piano.