Why NSMS is Unique Among Piano Pedagogy Programs

Piano pedagogy, like any skill, requires constant practice and analysis to develop and improve. As a fellow at NSMS, the honing of my pedagogical abilities does not stop at the theoretical stage. Each week, I teach more than a dozen weekly lessons and group classes and I can immediately put newly acquired methodologies to use. These lessons and classes are in turn observed by experienced pedagogues, who can provide timely and specific feedback to form a positive loop of learning and teaching. As a result, I am able to become a more confident and effective teacher in a short period of time.

The community at NSMS is one of its greatest strengths. While participating in the fellowship program, I am surrounded by some of the most passionate, experienced, and supportive pedagogues I’ve ever met. Their presence means that learning never stops within the classrooms and studios; it continues in conversations over lunch breaks and in discussions in the hallways. This immersive environment ensures an organic process of learning as well as a great sense of cohesion and communication within the NSMS family. 

Besides the hands-on experience and the caring community, NSMS also provides a full complement of events and lectures. These include the biweekly Piano Teacher Engagement Series featuring artist-pedagogues from all over the country in enlightening lectures and post-seminar discussions, and the Foundational Pedagogy classes, which cover essential topics of piano teaching. There are also residencies by master pedagogues, leading to observations and one-on-one career consultations. In addition, one can take part in numerous faculty recitals throughout the year, as well as lecture-recital and presentation opportunities. Together, these components make NSMS’s program a truly unique and transformational experience.

TianYi Li is a Chinese-born pianist and educator based in Princeton, New Jersey. A graduate of NYU Steinhardt and The Juilliard School (DMA, MM), he performs internationally as a soloist and chamber musician and is an award winner at major international piano competitions.

Interested in applying to the NSMS Postgraduate Teaching Program? Applications are due on April 17, 2026. Learn more and apply now by clicking here.