About myself, the studio, and what drives my teaching philosopy.
JON SCHOLL
Owner/Teacher at Piano Player's Workshop
Born and raised in upstate NY, I've called Baton Rouge my home for almost 2 decades now. Before moving here in 2008, I spent my college years split between the music and communications buildings at Ithaca College, ultimately earning a degree in audio production. For the next 13 years I would work in the audio, performing and teaching fields, touring the country with my band, recording other artists and teaching piano at student's homes.
In 2017 I then decided to concentrate the majority of my time and efforts into the one thing that I loved more than anything, teaching piano. I went back to school, working through classes in the piano pedagogy program at LSU, and took on a full schedule of students. In 2022, I decided to open up my own teaching studio, Piano Player's Workshop, which I run from my home. Utilizing my extensive backgrounds in audio, performing and teaching, I've developed 2 of the more unique aspects of this studio: a music technology lab where students can reinforce reading, rhythm skills, ear training and composition in unique ways outside of the lessons, as well as hosting 4 creative and fun themed performance opportunities every year that get students playing in a variety of different genres, both on their own and together with their peers in ensembles.
I began taking lessons myself at the age of 11, and was fully obsessed and committed from the get-go because of a caring and amazing piano teacher. She encouraged me to learn and play music that caught my interest, no matter what genre that music resided in, and I learned early on the power that having true caring for something can hold when one is deciding how much time and energy they want to commit to achieving set goals, especially when those goals are set (along with some gentle teacher guidance) by the student themselves.
Fast forward over 30 years since that first lesson, and that mantra my original piano teacher lived by is the one I myself now work with every day. Inspiring students, both young and old, to want to learn everything they can about playing the piano and making music is why I do this. And when a student is captivated and truly enjoys the process, there's no better motivation to learn.
When you take piano lessons here, I strive to not just teach you how to be a skilled performer, I craft our lessons in a way that helps to start you on an exciting journey towards becoming a well-rounded musician, and a life-long music lover. I want you to love music, love learning about it, love performing it, love creating it, and love sharing it with others, and everything I do here is in the pursuit of guiding you towards that. I hope to help start that journey with you!
What makes this different
Four concerts a year
I know the only way to become a great performer is to do it, a lot. And by always having a goal with a set deadline in sight, motivation is much easier to find.
Both solo and ensemble performance opportunities
From playing in keyboard ensembles to playing with a full rock band to group summer camps, classes and workshops, playing all by yourself is not the only option here. Getting to play and learn with your peers in the community is not only fun, it also helps you learn from others, understand how to play in sync with others, and develop listening skills that aren't often focused on during solo performance.
Custom arrangements
Sometimes a student really wants to learn a piece, but they're just not at the right level yet. When good sounding arrangements at the student's level don't exist, I can create a new arrangement to give them just the right amount of challenge while still sounding great
Practice videos at home
Every week's assignment can come with video breakdowns of repertoire or concepts learning, letting the student review once the lesson's done as much as they'd like.
Music technology lab
Keyboards, learning games, DAW workstations and notation software that students can use before or after lessons. Individual tech lab curriculums that reinforce what is being learned in method books can be created for an extra fee as well.
Four themed concerts a year
While method books are almost always part of every student's curriculum, every student is almost always also working toward something concrete that they chose and are interested in. Whether it's a song for the next concert, learning how to write their own music, or something else they just happen to want to know more about, student's tend to stay motivated when they enjoy what they're learning.
What families are saying.
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Jon and Piano Player's Workshop. Jon has been teaching two of my children for the past 10 years, and the impact he has had on their musical education and personal growth has been truly incredible. From the very beginning, Jon demonstrated not only an exceptional talent for teaching piano, but also a genuine passion for helping each student reach their full potential. He has an amazing ability to challenge students while keeping lessons engaging, encouraging, and enjoyable. His instruction goes far beyond simply learning notes and scales. He teaches musicianship, discipline, confidence, and a true appreciation for music. One of the greatest testaments to Jon's teaching is that one of my children continued their musical journey into college and is now pursuing a minor in music. The strong foundation Jon provided over the years played a significant role in making that possible. His commitment to excellence consistently prepares students for success at whatever level they choose to pursue music. What has always impressed me most is Jon's dedication to his students. During the pandemic, when so many activities came to a halt, Jon seamlessly transitioned to video lessons to ensure his students could continue progressing. He maintained the same high level of instruction, professionalism, and personal attention despite the challenges, and it made a tremendous difference for our family during that time. Over the last decade, we have watched our children grow not only as pianists but as individuals, and Jon has been an important part of that journey. His patience, expertise, encouragement, and unwavering commitment to his students are truly exceptional. If you are looking for a piano teacher who is knowledgeable, dedicated, inspiring, and genuinely invested in the success of his students, I wholeheartedly recommend Jon and Piano Player's Workshop. Our family is incredibly grateful for the years of outstanding instruction and support. Five stars simply don't seem like enough.
We have been with Jon at Piano Players Workshop for 5 years, and we could not be happier! Jon is incredibly knowledgeable and truly passionate about music. His love for what he does comes through in every lesson, and he has a wonderful way of making learning piano fun and engaging. One of my favorite things about Piano Players Workshop is the unique performance opportunities Jon provides for his students. He goes far beyond a traditional recital! The students have performed in a more formal recital at The Manship Theatre on a beautiful grand piano, participated in a movie-themed recital with the movie playing in the background, and enjoyed wonderful holiday recitals. But my absolute favorite is when Jon puts together an entire band with singers to accompany the students on stage. Seeing them perform with a full band is such an incredible and memorable experience! Jon is also incredibly easy to work with and very flexible when we have to miss a lesson, which is so appreciated with a busy family schedule. Another bonus is the waiting room with multiple pianos, which allows my other child to practice while their sibling is having a lesson. After five years, we can honestly say that Jon is worth every penny we have invested. His dedication, creativity, knowledge, and genuine love of music make Piano Players Workshop such a special place. We highly recommend Jon to anyone looking for a piano teacher who will not only teach their child to play, but also help them develop a true love and appreciation for music!
Dear Jon, Thank you for yet another fantastic concert! We know these events take a great deal of planning- it shows! Yet somehow, you always make the kids feel like the star of the show. You make each child feel valued, which gives them the confidence to let their talents shine. It is always such a joy to see your students faces beaming with satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment from performing the pieces they've worked so hard to learn... all your students- not just our own girls :). Thank you for sharing your gifts with these kids!
Dear Jon, Thank you for being such a patient & kind teacher to our son. He LOVES playing piano. I know you have something to do with that :). I appreciate all of the time, effort, & creativity you put into what you do!
Dear Jon, We so appreciate all of the work you put into lessons + recitals for the kids. Our daughter has had such wonderful experiences with performance and she truly loves playing piano. We're grateful you are her teacher.
Great Teacher for any age. I started lessons at 55/yo and still enjoy them 7 years later. Location in Southdowns is very convenient. Jon really tailors his lessons to the interest of his students.
Jon is the best! Very knowledgeable and patient with me. I am an adult and new to learning piano, and Jon knew exactly how to work with me. He is a seasoned veteran and has been playing piano and involved in the music industry most of his life. He is a great guy and won't steer you wrong!