CLASSES & PROGRAMS

Student Classes
Teacher Classes

Grow as a musician. Find your voice. Join a community.

At Sonare Music Academy, we offer a wide range of programs for students of all ages, experience levels, and backgrounds — whether you're taking your first lesson or preparing for the concert stage. Our approach blends high-level classical training with a warm, encouraging environment that supports confidence, creativity, and lifelong learning.

All programs are available in-person in Asheville, NC or online worldwide.

Flexible Learning: In Asheville & Online

Our hybrid model allows students from anywhere in the world to experience Sonare’s programs. All offerings are available via secure, high-quality virtual instruction or in person at our Asheville location.

Not Sure Where to Start?

We’ll help you find the right path. Whether you’re brand new or returning to your craft, we’ll recommend a program that fits your goals.

Click the accordion below to learn more.

  • We offer personalized piano instruction tailored to the unique goals of each student — from beginner to advanced. Group classes are available seasonally and offer an engaging way to learn in a collaborative setting.

    • Ages: Children (7+), teens, adults, and seniors

    • Format: Weekly sessions, flexible scheduling

    • Focus: Technique, artistry, expression, and growth

  • Build a deeper understanding of the music you love. Our theory and composition courses explore structure, harmony, ear training, and creative writing — whether you're a performer or aspiring composer.

    • Options: Individual instruction or small-group workshops

    • Levels: Beginner through advanced theory

    • Outcomes: Stronger musicianship, creative confidence

  • Sonare serves teachers, too. Led by Dr. Hwa-Jin Kim, our pedagogy program provides professional coaching, curriculum support, and mentorship for current and aspiring music educators.

    • Topics: Lesson planning, repertoire selection, student motivation, technique

    • Format: One-on-one coaching and group workshops

    • Ideal for: Private teachers, studio owners, and university instructors

  • Monthly Masterclasses

    Our free monthly masterclasses offer students a chance to perform, receive feedback, and learn from peers.

    • Masterclasses: Open to the community, virtual & in-person

  • We believe music should be accessible to everyone. Our donor-supported scholarships provide need-based financial aid for lessons, workshops, and events.

    Apply early — limited spots available!

    Open to local and online students.

Monthly Free Masterclass:

Last Saturday of each month at 10:30 am-12:00 pm

Location: Piano Emporium 828 Hendersonville Road, Asheville NC 28803

Registration required: admin@sonaremusicacademy.com

Music Literature, and History

Discover the stories behind the music. This 8-week course takes students on a journey through the great eras of Western music—from the Baroque to the Modern age—exploring how composers, culture, and history shaped the sounds we know today. Through listening, discussion, and short reflections, students will learn to recognize major styles and forms, connect music to its time and place, and deepen their understanding of how music reflects the human spirit.

Length: 90 minutes per session

Class time: 8 Tuesdays - Jan. 13 - Mar. 3, 2026 - 10-11:30 AM - Private studio in Biltmore Park, South Asheville

Tuition: $400

Registration by Dec. 20, 2025: admin@sonaremusicacademy.com

Music Theory for Adults: Fall 2025 - registration closed

Music Theory class for adults at my home—10 weekly sessions, 90 minutes each, on Mondays from 9/1 to 11/3.

- beginner-friendly, small-group class that’s interactive and intimate.

Registration Closed.

Spring 2026 - More Info To Come!

Classical Music Literature Course starting in January - more info to come.

Music Theory for Adults and Students - more info to come.

Teacher Coaching Class - FALL 2025!

Teacher Coaching Class Fall 2025 - registration is open now!

Sonare Music Academy is pleased to offer a Teacher Coaching Class for Piano Teachers this November.

The program includes five Tuesday sessions (90 minutes each), running from November 11 through December 9, with a tuition of $300.

If you or your students are interested, please register by October 15.

  • 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

  • 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Instructors:

Dr. Hwa-Jin Kim and Laura Stokes

Email to Register

To confirm your spot, please complete tuition here:

 https://square.link/u/SK2q8Jv 

Once we receive your registration, we will send you a welcome note and the venue address.

If you have any questions, please reply to admin@sonaremusicacademy.com.

Scholarships are available for student teachers and recent graduates who are beginning their teaching careers.

Course Overview This course is designed for current and aspiring music teachers seeking to refine their teaching methods, classroom communication, and professional presence. Through guided discussion, observation, role-play, and reflective practice, participants will develop practical strategies for effective, inspiring, and sustainable teaching.

Weekly Course Plan 

Week 1: Foundations of Effective Teaching Defining your teaching philosophy; Core skills every teacher must cultivate; Observation: watching and listening like a teacher; Group exercise: analyzing a sample lesson

Week 2: Communication & Classroom Presence Verbal clarity, pacing, and tone of voice; Non-verbal communication and stage presence; Building rapport and motivating students; Role-play: giving clear and inspiring instructions

Week 3: Teaching Strategies & Student Engagement Scaffolding and sequencing learning; Adapting teaching to different student levels; Strategies for problem-solving during lessons; Practicum: mini-teaching sessions with feedback

Week 4: Reflective Practice & Professional Growth Self-assessment and peer feedback; Handling challenges and setbacks as a teacher; Balancing discipline with encouragement; Group discussion: teacher resilience and growth mindset

Week 5: Demonstration & Coaching Clinic Participant teaching demonstrations; Peer and instructor feedback; Q&A; and best practices exchange; Closing reflections and certificate ceremony