About Ariel

Music has been a part of Ariel’s life since she was a little girl. At age four she learned songs by ear. At age six she learned to read music, taught by her concert pianist grandmother. In college she studied music, including music education and music therapy, as well as psychology and early childhood development. She holds a BA from the University of Kansas. Since moving to the Bay Area in her mid 20s she has studied blues, rock and jazz.

In 1992 Ariel began giving private piano lessons. “I was informally giving lessons to friends and classmates long before that. I got lots of feedback about how I was able to break down and explain things to them that others couldn’t. That’s part of what inspired me to go into private teaching.” She has also taught music in an after school program at Pacific Academy, been the music director at the Home of Truth Spiritual Center and performed at the Whole Life Expo.

Testimonials from Students

Ariel pushes me in a nice way, allowing me to progress quickly. She also tries to find music that I would like (rock 'n roll). Olivia L.P., 4th Grade Student

Ariel Litzky has been my son’s piano instructor since 2007. I find her very dedicated, passionate, and devoted to teaching young children. I would highly recommend her to my friends and their children. Annie, mother of 4th grade student

Ariel is great! We have taken lessons for 7 and 9 years. When learning something new, she gives us an example of a piece of a song for us to relate to. This makes it easier to think of the notes. She takes her time to explain and review the music notes. She explains how to play the piano correctly so we do not get into bad habits and gives us confidence for each piece of music we do. She'll select fun songs for our age group. Randal, Middle School Student & Rachel, High School Student

Ariel has been the piano teacher for our eight year old and six year old for the past three months and the kids have really grown under her organized and patient style. She teaches them under a structured weekly program that develops their skills and interest in the piano without overwhelming them. Ariel's fees are very reasonable and she is conveniently located in Alameda. Steve C., Alameda

I've been taking lessons with Ariel since 1998. I've learned a lot along the way. Ariel is very supportive for adults who would like to pick up new skills. She's very knowledgeable about various genres and can teach you how to play everything from Bach to Joplin to Joel. I have seen Ariel's skill with children and admire how she gently guides them along. When friends are looking for a piano teacher for themselves or their children, I always recommend Ariel. Clare P., adult student

Ariel is a patient, kind music teacher. I have some experience in music, being a flute player, but I never understood major and minor scales and the difference between them. Her explanation was clear. Within half an hour I understood major and minor scales and what "C7" means, and I began to understand how to do jazz improv. Ariel communicates more than the mechanics of music: she communicates her excitement about music and the fun of creating it. Michael L., adult student

Ariel is calm, patient, and listens carefully to my piano-related problems. She understands seniors' financial restrictions and is thus reasonable in her fees. If you have always wanted to play the piano, but felt you couldn't afford it, or that you were too old, Ariel's teaching methods will change your mind. Seniors, this is excellent brain exercise! Katherine H. (72 years of age), Member, Mastick Senior Center