
The teachers featured here are making profound contributions to students at all stages, from the youngest beginners to college students, and to those who study later in life. These inspirational, personal stories testify to the timeless impact piano teachers have on their students and their communities.
We invite you to celebrate the piano teachers who have shaped your life. The Power of a Piano Teacher campaign honors those remarkable mentors whose influence extends far beyond music, inspiring creativity, confidence, and lifelong joy.
When you share a tribute and donate to The Frances Clark Center, your teacher will receive a digital certificate of recognition, and their name will be placed on our website alongside others who have made a lasting difference in their students’ lives.
From the youngest beginner to those who discovered piano later in life, these stories remind us of the timeless impact of a dedicated teacher.
Join us by honoring your teacher today through the Power of a Piano Teacher campaign.
Alex Marrero honors Vladimir Feltsman
I am honoring Maestro Vladimir Feltsman as a tribute to all of his service as a University Professor for The College at New Paltz. I was most fortunate to perform in Applied Music, Master Classes, and Piano Literature for him in the late 1980s and the early 1990s, as I was completing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music History. Although all of his pupils were more advanced than I was, he always encouraged me. As a result of his help, I was able to complete a Master of Arts Degree in Music Education through Teachers College of Columbia University.
Sally Goldfarb honors Margie Nelson
Margie Nelson has taught our son, who has special needs, for more than fifteen years. During that time, she has sparked and nurtured his love of music while patiently and gently pushing him to develop his skills and do his best. Her faith in him has never wavered, and it has been wonderful to watch the progress he has made with her guidance and support. She is a superb teacher and we are deeply grateful to her for enriching his life.

Anonymous honors Carla Salas-Ruiz
Dr. Salas-Ruiz is a gift to young musicians everywhere. Her wonderful imagination and limitless joy for music and passing this passion on to young people make her very special indeed. Thank you to Dr. Salas-Ruiz and all the fantastic teachers at NSMS.
“Teaching is probably the noblest profession in the world—the most unselfish, difficult, and honorable profession.”
– Leonard Bernstein
MORE ON THE POWER OF A PIANO TEACHER
- DISCOVERY PAGE: The Power of a Piano Teacher by Heather Smith
- DISCOVERY PAGE: The Joy of Giving by Heather Smith
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Marvin Blickenstaff: Cheerleader Extraordinaire by Sara Ernst
- DISCOVERY PAGE: She Really Took a Chance on Me by Asia Passmore
- DISCOVERY PAGE: A Tribute to John Salmon by Heather Hancock
- DISCOVERY PAGE: A Symphony of Gratitude by Ricardo Pozenatto
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Honoring Amy Merkley and Irene Peery-Fox by Hyrum Arnesen
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Reflections on My Piano Teacher | Honoring Fern Davidson by Marvin Blickenstaff
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Every Student Has a Voice the World Needs to Hear | Honoring Carole Ann Kriewaldt by Leah Claiborne
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