Keyboard Studies
Keyboard studies encompasses the technical and artistic mastery of the piano, harpsichord, synthesizer, and organ, instruments that serve as the fundamental "workstations" for all musical inquiry. As a discipline, it bridges the gap between solitary practice and collaborative performance. Studying the keyboard develops a comprehensive understanding of harmony, counterpoint, and score reading, providing a physical map for the entire language of music.
Piano at Lehigh: Excellence at Every Key
Whether you are a virtuoso preparing for a concerto performance or a beginner touching a keyboard for the first time, Lehigh offers the resources and expertise to help you grow. We take pride in supporting students at every stage of their development, viewing the piano as an essential tool for musical understanding.
Our program is defined by access to professional-grade equipment. From our practice rooms to the world-class stages of the Zoellner Arts Center, students work on a fleet of professionally maintained instruments. Our flagship performance instrument—a Steinway Spirio Concert Grand—combines legendary craftsmanship with high-resolution recording technology, providing a cutting-edge tool for modern performance analysis and collaboration.
Key Pillars of Study
Paths for Every Level
Our curriculum is designed to be accessible to the entire Lehigh community. For those starting their journey, Class Piano for Beginners provides a supportive group environment in our specialized keyboard lab. For intermediate and advanced players, Private Piano Study offers one-on-one mentorship with our artist-faculty, allowing for a deep dive into sophisticated solo repertoire and technical refinement.
The Foundational Requirement
We believe keyboard fluency is vital for every serious musician. For all Music Majors, the Piano Proficiency Exam serves as a core milestone. We provide clear pathways to meet this requirement, offering foundational prep through group classes or personalized instruction to master the essential skills of sight-reading, harmonization, and transposition.
Collaborative Artistry
Pianists are the connective tissue of the Music Department. Beyond solo study, keyboard students are encouraged to transition from the practice room to the stage as vital members of our Chamber Music Collegium, the Philharmonic, and our Jazz Ensembles. These opportunities allow pianists to develop the sensitive ear and adaptive technique required for high-level collaborative performance.
Creative Spaces & Technology
Performance and practice take place in our dedicated keyboard labs and the stunning acoustics of Baker Hall. By utilizing our Steinway Spirio technology, students can record their performances with unparalleled precision, allowing for a modern approach to critique, composition, and digital realization.
Related Courses & Ensembles
The keyboard program supports the Music Major and Minor while remaining open to all students. Proficiency at the keyboard serves as a powerful foundational tool that complements and enhances the study of Music Theory and Composition.
