Everyone deserves music
Our team at Opus 1 Music Studio is passionate about helping students develop their musical abilities and build a lasting appreciation for music. We focus on advancing students technical skills and encouraging their creativity by applying instructional techniques that complement their individual learning approaches. Through each lesson, our teachers bring encouragement, inspiration, and support to the classroom, creating opportunities for students to enjoy the collaborative and rewarding process of making music.
We offer professional private and group music education in Piano, Violin, Guitar, Cello, and Voice at our Mountain View and Palo Alto locations. Our studio serves learners of all ages and works to fulfill their musical needs with expertise and care. We provide a friendly, professional, and nurturing environment where students can feel supported as they develop their musical talents.
Served areas
- Palo Alto, Mountain View, Los Altos, Menlo Park California
Business details
- Year established: 2006
- Employees: 50
- Licensed
- Insured
Highlights and features
- Piano, Keyboard, Music Theory, Guitar, Violin, Voice, Guitar, Cello
Associations and certifications
- ABRSM, CM, RCM
Payment methods
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
Our piano lessons help students discover the rewards of learning an instrument through patient, professional teaching. We serve beginners exploring the keyboard as well as advanced students preparing for examinations and performances. Instruction includes healthy technique, repertoire development, sight-reading, and practice strategies. Our teachers provide a clear path for musical growth and achievement.
We deliver professional violin education with experienced teachers and a clear path from first notes to advanced performance. Students learn essential skills including rhythm, scales, intonation, vibrato, and repertoire. Our program supports ABRSM, RCM, and Certificate of Merit preparation. We welcome learners seeking focused and encouraging instruction.
Opus 1 provides viola lessons for young musicians and adults seeking quality instruction from experienced teachers. Our program develops essential skills including posture, left-hand technique, music reading, and performance abilities. We prepare students for examinations, auditions, and ensemble experiences. Each lesson path is designed to support individual progress and musical goals.
Our Palo Alto cello lessons provide a structured approach from first notes through advanced repertoire. We teach essential cello skills while encouraging creativity and enjoyment. Students receive guidance from university-trained instructors with experience in multiple performance styles. Our lessons are available for children, adults, beginners, and experienced players.
Students at our guitar program receive instruction from trained teachers who combine technical development with the enjoyment of making music. Lessons cover a wide range of guitar styles and skills, including accompaniment, lead playing, and improvisation. We help students progress confidently while preparing for performances, exams, and lifelong musical enjoyment.
We provide private ukulele lessons designed for students ages 5 and up, from beginners to developing players. Our university-trained teachers build strong foundations in chords, rhythm, reading, and performance skills. Students explore Hawaiian, pop, folk, rock, and singer-songwriter styles while enjoying engaging instruction. We help each learner progress through a supportive and motivating musical journey.
We provide professional singing lessons designed for kids, teens, and adults at all experience levels. Our instruction focuses on healthy vocal technique, including breath support, posture, pitch, and tone development. Students explore pop, musical theater, classical, and jazz styles while building confidence through personalized guidance and meaningful repertoire.
We specialize in adult music lessons for learners who want to explore music at any stage of life. Our programs support beginners and returning musicians through private instruction in various instruments, including piano, guitar, voice, and strings. Students benefit from skilled teachers, adaptable scheduling, and lessons created around their interests, progress, and personal objectives.
We provide Music for Young Children classes designed to build early musical knowledge through structured play and hands-on learning. Sunshine and Sunbeams introduce young students to piano geography, note reading, rhythms, and musical expression. With support from parents, children develop important skills and positive learning habits in a group setting.
Preparation for ABRSM, Certificate of Merit (MTAC), and RCM music exams, with Opus 1 students regularly passing with Merit and Distinction.
People
Doris Ngai Lellouche
Piano
Doris Ngai is the co- founder of Opus 1 Music studio and a full time piano instructor. Her passion of music was inherited from her father, a professional violinist and a former member of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. Doris has won various piano competitions at Hong Kong Schools Music Festival in her early age.
Sici Tsoi
Music Theory & Piano
Sici Tsoi graduated from San Jose State University with a Master of Arts in Music and received her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Hong Kong Baptist University. She has been involved in the music field for over 15 years with experience and training as a sound engineer, music theory and piano teacher, and conductor.
Dr. Lina
Master Piano Teacher
Dr. Lina is a concert pianist and chamber musician from South Korea and one of Opus 1's master-level (Level 3) piano teachers. She holds an Artist Diploma and a Konzertexamen (equivalent to a D.M.A.) in Piano Performance from Hanns Eisler Berlin, plus master's degrees in piano performance and chamber music from HfM Detmold, Germany, and a B.M. from Hanyang University in Seoul. She teaches students of all ages and levels, from beginners through advanced and exam-track pianists.
Dr. Akira K.
Master Piano Teacher
Dr. Akira K is a master-level (Level 3) piano teacher at Opus 1 with 11 years of teaching experience, including faculty roles at the University of Michigan Piano Pedagogy Laboratory Program and the Indiana University Jacobs Academy Young Pianists Program. He holds a D.M.A. in Piano Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, an M.M. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Michigan, and a B.M. in Piano Performance from Bowling Green State University. He specializes in helping students build healthy technique and body awareness at the keyboard.
Dr. Claire
Master Piano Teacher
Dr. Claire is a passionate pianist and one of Opus 1's master-level (Level 3) piano teachers, teaching students of all ages and levels across the United States and Taiwan since 2009. She holds a D.M.A. in Piano Performance from the University of Maryland, an M.M. and Graduate Performance Diploma in Piano Performance from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University, and a B.F.A. in Piano Performance from National Taiwan Normal University. Many of her students have earned opportunities to perform at prestigious venues.
Dr. Heather
Master Piano Teacher
Dr. Heather is a concert pianist and master-level (Level 3) piano educator at Opus 1 with over 28 years of private and university-level teaching experience, including as a former adjunct music professor at New York University. She holds a Ph.D. in Piano Performance and an M.A. in Piano Performance, both from New York University, and a B.A. in Piano Performance from Korea. She brings a warm, patient, student-centered approach with a strong track record of building technique and musicianship.
Dr. Theodora
Master Piano Teacher
Dr. Theodora is a pianist, scholar, and one of Opus 1's master-level (Level 3) piano teachers, with more than 11 years of experience teaching students from beginning through advanced levels, including undergraduates. She holds a Ph.D. in Musicology from Cornell University, double B.A. degrees in Music and English (both High Honors) from the University of California, Berkeley, and an M.A. in Musicology from Cornell, and also holds Certificate of Merit credentials. Her students have earned distinctions in ABRSM exams and competitions such as the U.S. Open. She emphasizes healthy technique, body awareness, and helping students become imaginative, well-rounded musicians.
Effie Z.
Senior Piano Teacher
Effie is a classically trained pianist and composer with over 20 years of musical experience and more than 6 years teaching piano and music theory to children and adults at all levels. She earned her M.M. in Music Composition (concentration in Music-in-Education) from the New England Conservatory of Music and a B.M. in Music Composition from the Tianjin Conservatory of Music, China. Her warm, creative lessons weave in music theory, ear training, improvisation, and music history.
Marco P.
Master Piano Teacher
Marco is one of Opus 1's master-level piano teachers, with over 10 years of experience teaching all ages and levels and preparing students for ABRSM exams. He earned two Bachelor of Music degrees in Piano Performance and Music Theory graduating as valedictorian, and an M.A. in Piano Performance from Arizona State University under renowned pianist Dr. Caio Pagano. Before coming to the United States he taught at conservatories in Portugal.
Sylvia W.
Senior Piano & Violin Teacher
Sylvia is an internationally experienced piano, violin, and music theory teacher with 30+ years of experience across private lessons, group classes, and K-12 classrooms. She holds an M.M. in Violin Performance and Pedagogy from Texas Christian University, a B.A. in Violin and Piano Performance from Western Illinois University, and is a Fellow of Trinity College London (FTCL, Piano) with long-term Suzuki training. Her students have excelled in national competitions and ABRSM and Certificate of Merit exams.
Ying H.
Senior Piano Teacher
Ying holds a master's degree in classical piano performance from the Aaron Copland School of Music at CUNY Queens College and a double-major B.A. in Music Performance and Music Education from Soochow University, Taiwan. Her experience spans soloist, chamber musician, collaborative pianist, and educator, and she is certified as a Music Teacher and Performing Arts Teacher in Taiwan. Known for a flexible, attentive style, she adapts each lesson to the student's needs.
Minghua H.
Master Piano Teacher
Minghua is one of Opus 1's master-level piano teachers and a certified university lecturer who taught piano performance, pedagogy, literature, and music education at universities for over 10 years. She holds a B.M. in Music Education and Piano from the Eastman School of Music (University of Rochester) and an M.M. in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy from Temple University. A piano competition judge, she has helped many students win world-class competitions and gain admission to top universities.
Giselle N.
Senior Piano Teacher
Giselle is a pianist and dedicated educator with over 8 years of teaching experience. She holds an M.M. in Piano Performance from the Longy School of Music of Bard College and a B.M. in Piano Performance from Cornell College, graduating Cum Laude with Distinction. Her nurturing, games-based approach builds sight-reading, theory, and confidence early, and many of her students have earned Merit and Distinction in ABRSM exams.
Christine K.
Senior Piano Teacher
Christine has taught piano and music theory since 1993 and has over 30 years of experience as an accompanist for choirs, vocalists, ensembles, and instrumentalists. She holds a B.M. in Musicology and Music Theory from the Korea National University of Arts. She and her family also spent time in Iraq teaching music to refugee students.
Tram D.
Senior Piano Teacher
Tram earned a Bachelor of Music with a Minor in Music Education from McGill University and has taught piano since 2010. She reinforces strong technique and fundamentals from the very beginning, and many of her students have completed Royal Conservatory of Music exams from beginner to advanced levels with Distinction. An award-winning pianist herself, she encourages students to perform in recitals and competitions.
Dr. Emily
Senior Piano Teacher
Dr. Emily is a pianist, educator, and researcher specializing in piano performance and pedagogy for students of all ages and levels. She earned her Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance from the University of Georgia and has taught at Clemson University, the University of Georgia Community Music School, and the Asheville Academy for the Arts. Her teaching emphasizes technical excellence, artistic expression, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
Julia K.
Master Piano Teacher
Julia is one of Opus 1's master-level piano teachers, with over 25 years of experience teaching all ages and levels. She holds a B.A. in Piano Performance from Ewha Womans University, Korea, and an M.A. in Piano Performance from San Jose State University, where she won the Concerto Competition. Her students have excelled in Certificate of Merit, MTAC Solo, and the U.S. Open Music Competition.
Rebecca Z.
Senior Piano Teacher
Rebecca holds a Bachelor's degree from New York University and a Master's from the Mannes School of Music, with over five years of teaching experience and a special love for young and beginner students. She focuses on strong fundamentals, good practice habits, and confidence at the piano, tailoring each lesson to the student. An active performer, she has given recitals in the U.S., Europe, and China.
Young-Rang S.
Senior Piano & Voice Teacher
Young-Rang holds a B.M. in Vocal Performance from Yonsei University and an M.M. in Vocal Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, with performing and teaching experience in voice, piano, and group classes. She was cast in the title role of Carmen with the San Francisco Opera Guild and won first place in the Bay Area Opera League competition. She serves as a choir director and music director in the Bay Area.
Aaron Z.
Senior Piano Teacher
Aaron began piano at age 4 and has won numerous international competitions and performed across China, Europe, and the U.S. He holds a B.M. in Piano Performance from the College of Music of SDNU, China, and an M.M. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Hartford. With over 8 years of experience, his warm yet demanding approach has led students to win international competitions and gain admission to prestigious music programs.
Chloe C.
Senior Piano Teacher
Chloe is a member of the Music Teachers National Association and a trained Suzuki and ABRSM teacher who has taught in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Los Angeles. She earned her B.M. and M.M. in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy from Temple University, where she won the Symphony Orchestra Soloist Competition. Her lessons emphasize creativity, musicianship, technique, and artistry tailored to each student.
Reviews (25)
Jennie D.
May 17, 2026
We have been with Opus 1 for several years now and have worked with Teacher Elliot for cello for my now 11 year old ever since. Teacher Elliot is very skilled in his craft and teaches with kindness. One of the things we like most about Teacher Elliot is the way he explains specific techniques. He is also one of the kindest and friendliest people out there and we're grateful he does such a good job of balancing teaching cello skills and techniques, while still keeping it fun and exciting to preserve the kids' love of playing cello. Thank you, Elliot!
Caroline Van Der Pool
May 16, 2026
Sneha
May 14, 2026
Catherine Zhang
May 13, 2026
My child started violin lesson since November last year, and it has brought so much more joy. She now looks forward to practicing and feels proud of her progress.
Teacher Kashimira makes learning fun and inspiring, while still building strong fundamentals. Were very grateful and would definitely recommend!
Teacher Kashimira makes learning fun and inspiring, while still building strong fundamentals. Were very grateful and would definitely recommend!
Genhan Chen
May 12, 2026
Teacher Akira is an amazing piano teacher! He is very patient with my kid, and I really appreciate how he talks to my child calmly and positively when focus starts drifting. My kid absolutely loves him and always looks forward to class.
I also like that his lessons are fun and engaging. He doesnt just go page by page through music pieces. He mixes in different techniques like music note flash cards and other activities to keep kids interested and learning. He knows how to motivate kids and make music enjoyable.
I also like that his lessons are fun and engaging. He doesnt just go page by page through music pieces. He mixes in different techniques like music note flash cards and other activities to keep kids interested and learning. He knows how to motivate kids and make music enjoyable.
Shilpa Kapilavai
May 12, 2026
Haipeng Zheng
May 09, 2026
Jing Xu
May 09, 2026
We are glad that we chose Opus 1 as my daughters first musical school. My daughter has truly enjoyed her time with Miss Laura and looks forward to her piano lessons every week.
We are so grateful for Lauras incredible patience and the respectful way to engage with her; it has helped her build so much confidence in her playing. Lauras organized notes after each lesson are also incredibly helpful for us to stay on track and keep the momentum going at home.
We are so grateful for Lauras incredible patience and the respectful way to engage with her; it has helped her build so much confidence in her playing. Lauras organized notes after each lesson are also incredibly helpful for us to stay on track and keep the momentum going at home.
Jungsook Y.
May 07, 2026
Zahra Zadeh
May 05, 2026
We have had experience with three teachers at Opus 1 Music, and all of them have been great. However, Teacher Sasha is one of the best voice teachers we have worked with so far.
My daughter enjoys every second of her class with Teacher Sasha, and she looks forward to going every week with great enthusiasm.
My daughter enjoys every second of her class with Teacher Sasha, and she looks forward to going every week with great enthusiasm.
Xevi Mir Bruix
May 05, 2026
Yi Quan
May 04, 2026
My daughter has been taking piano lessons at Opus 1 Music Studio with Teacher Effie for more than a year, and we truly appreciate her teaching style. Last year, she helped my daughter successfully pass the ABRSM Grade 3 exam, and this year they are working toward Grade 5. Hopefully everything will continue to go smoothly.
Joy Shen
May 02, 2026
As someone who grew up playing piano and always loved music but never learned vocal fundamentals, I was excited to see that Opus 1 offers adult lessons. Its been a pleasure working 1:1 with Caitlin (Level 1) on everything from breath work to sight singing to ear training. Over the last few months weve learned several songs together and I look forward to continuing our lessons!
Ming Zou
May 01, 2026
Wei Chai
Jan 24, 2026
My daughter has been learning cello with Teacher Elliot since 7yr old. Elliot is a very patient and encouraging teacher with a lot of attention to details and shaping kids practice habit. My daughter improved her skills dramatically since she started learning with Elliot and has always been looking forward to her weekly cello classes.
Sara Vuolteenaho
Dec 28, 2025
C. Chien
Apr 09, 2025
John Mausen is an incredibly patient and talented guitar teacher. His passion for music really comes through in his lessons, and he has a great way of connecting with young students. My son has made noticeable progress under Johns guidance and truly enjoys learning all the classic hits. We feel lucky to have found such a skilled and encouraging teacher!
Li Moore
Jun 29, 2024
Roger Chen
May 15, 2024
Jenny Yeh
Jun 28, 2023
My two kids have been taking music lessons (piano and cello) at Opus 1 for the past few years, and all of the teachers there are great, including Doris Ngai (piano), Elliot Mallard (cello), and Yuhui Li (piano). These teachers are very patient with the kids, but do work with the kids to ensure that they are on track to the next level. The tuition also includes 2 free recitals, which are very good experiences for the kids.
Wayne Li
May 24, 2023
My son has been learning violin with teacher Luis for the past 3 years, and it has been a truly wonderful journey. He is an awesome teacher and I would highly recommend other violin students to also learn with him. Every class, he helped my son improve his skills and taught him new techniques. He also taught him various methods to improve his intonation and rhythm.
Sarah Hem
Mar 29, 2023
Opus 1 Music has been wonderful for my son and daughter. Its helped them with focus and attention along with strengthening their memory and reasoning. The teachers there are very dedicated and excellent at what they do, in particular Teachers Tram and Kenta. Their weekly plans are very helpful in keeping parents up to date. Highly recommend this music studio. It has been a great addition to my childrens learning, a great balance to schooling.
Iman Saleh
Mar 10, 2023
Jamie Huang
Jul 06, 2022
My daughter is with Opus1 private piano lesson for over a year now. Her teacher Dr. Leah is so amazing. She is very patient and fun. We started 30mins lesson with her, but we changed to 45mins. My daughter has been learning to read notes and now she can play new songs just by reading notes on her own. The front desk Ms Mei is super nice. She helps us in our best interests. I highly recommend Opus1 in Mountain View. Clean facility and its in super convenient location. You can go shop or eat while your child/children in the lesson.
Yongzhi Chen
Apr 03, 2022
My son was enrolled in Opus1 group music class (My First piano) when he was five. After that he learned playing piano from the teacher Yuri. Ms. Yuri is a fantastic teacher who is professional, patient, kind, and motivating. My son made a great progress with her help. Opus 1 has convenient locations and provides an easy way to schedule the make-up lesson in case there is a conflict. The front desk staff Mei is very nice and helpful. I would highly recommend Opus 1 and Ms. Yuri.