Opus 1 Music Studio
Music Lessons in Mountain View, CA
We are dedicated at Opus 1 Music Studio to developing students musical talents while encouraging a strong passion for learning and performing music. Our instruction is designed to improve technical skills and promote creative expression through methods that are matched to the learning preferences of each student. With every lesson, our teachers focus on providing positive reinforcement, inspiration, and support so students can experience the pleasure and fulfillment of making music.Offering private and group instruction in Piano, Violin, Guitar, Cello, and Voice, we welcome students at our Mountain View and Palo Alto locations. We aim to satisfy the musical goals of students across all age groups by delivering lessons with professionalism, flexibility, and dedication. Our studio provides a friendly and nurturing space where students can learn, grow, and enjoy their musical journey.
Areas Served
- Palo Alto, Mountain View, Los Altos, Menlo Park California
Business Details
- Licensed and insured
- Year established: 2006
- Number of employees: 50
Highlights & Specialties
- Piano, Keyboard, Music Theory, Guitar, Violin, Voice, Guitar, Cello
Professional Associations & Certifications
- ABRSM, CM, RCM
Social Profiles
Contact Details
Products & Services
Piano Lessons
read moreWe deliver comprehensive piano instruction with lessons customized to match each students needs, goals, and learning style. Our faculty includes standard, senior, and master teachers experienced in multiple musical areas. Students develop essential skills such as rhythm, theory, technique, and expression. We offer preparation for ABRSM, Certificate of Merit, and RCM programs.
Violin Lessons
read moreWe offer violin instruction that develops technical ability, musical expression, and performance confidence. Our university-trained teachers support students through every stage of their learning process. Lessons cover foundational skills, advanced preparation, and various musical styles. We provide a structured approach for students pursuing personal growth or formal music goals.
Viola Lessons
read moreWe provide private viola lessons for students ages 6 and up, guiding beginners and experienced players through every stage of development. Our university-trained teachers focus on technique, musical understanding, and performance skills. Students learn posture, bow control, alto clef, repertoire, and exam preparation. We welcome children and adults with flexible lesson options.
Cello Lessons
read moreWe deliver private cello lessons with experienced teachers who help students build confidence and musical ability. Instruction includes reading music, bass clef, theory, intonation, and diverse cello repertoire. Our programs support individual goals through structured learning paths. Students can prepare for examinations, orchestras, and chamber music experiences.
Guitar Lessons
read moreAt our studio, we offer private guitar lessons designed around each students interests, abilities, and musical goals. Students learn chords, rhythm, scales, reading skills, and performance techniques across multiple styles. Our experienced teachers provide structured guidance for beginners and advanced players, helping students build confidence and progress through a clear path of development.
Ukulele Lessons
read moreOur ukulele lessons are designed to help students achieve musical growth through patient, professional instruction. We teach beginners and returning players the skills needed to play confidently across various genres. Each lesson emphasizes technique, timing, expression, and personal development. We provide a supportive setting where students can advance from introductory skills to greater mastery.
Voice & Singing Lessons
read moreWe offer private singing lessons focused on creating lasting vocal skills through professional training. Students receive guidance in technique, song selection, and performance preparation across pop, jazz, classical, and musical theater. Our experienced teachers support young singers, adults, and advanced performers with lessons tailored to their individual needs.
Adult Music Lessons
read moreAdult music lessons at Opus 1 are designed around each student's interests, pace, and schedule. We provide private instruction for adults learning piano, guitar, voice, violin, viola, cello, and ukulele with experienced teachers. No previous experience is necessary, and students can enjoy flexible lesson times without long-term contracts while developing their musical abilities.
Music for Young Children (Group Classes)
read moreOur Music for Young Children Program helps children and parents develop a love for music through interactive group classes. We use the MYC curriculum for Sunshine and Sunbeams keyboard programs, creating strong foundations through play, movement, singing, listening, and keyboard activities. Students build confidence, musical skills, and independence while preparing for future musical study.
Exam Preparation (ABRSM & Certificate of Merit)
read morePreparation for ABRSM, Certificate of Merit (MTAC), and RCM music exams, with Opus 1 students regularly passing with Merit and Distinction.
Reviews Write a Review
Jenny Peck
May 22, 2026
Cameron loves learning piano from Teacher Tahv! Piano is hard, but he makes it fun and is so encouraging. Opus 1 makes it easy to reschedule our missed classes due to our busy schedule. Highly recommend.
X. T.
May 20, 2026
My child has been learning piano with Christina at Opus 1 for a year. She is a wonderful teacher who is very conscientious and thorough. Weve seen huge improvements in our childs playing and interest in music. Christina made the transition into piano so smooth and enjoyable for a young beginner. Thank you, Christina, for all your hard work!
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!
Yubing Ji
May 17, 2026
The most structured early music/piano education I found. Teacher Ying is very patient and good with young children.
Sneha
May 14, 2026
My son loves teacher Tahv and we drive several miles from north bay just so that he can get a lesson. I dont think my son would continue playing piano if it wasnt for teacher Tahv .
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.
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.
Juting Zhai
May 09, 2026
Teacher Sylvia is highly recommended. She has lots of experience teaching young kids, and super patient and nice.
Jungsook Y.
May 07, 2026
Teacher Christine Kagiyama has taught my two children over the past few years, and they have improved so much.
Christine Chan
May 06, 2026
We are so grateful for Teacher Christine. Our son Owen is the kind of kid who will groan about almost any homework - but piano is the exception. Hell sit down to practice on his own whenever he has a free moment, and watching how far hes come has been such a joy. So much of that is because of Teacher Christine. She is steady, patient, and genuinely supportive, and Owen lights up at his lessons because of her. Thank you, Teacher Christine, for believing in him and making music something he actually loves.
James Healey
May 06, 2026
I have been very fortunate to have Mr. Alex as my piano teacher to guide my musical journey over the last year. Alex is kind, patient, and encouraging. He is consistently positive, with a gentle sense of humor, manifest in every session we meet. With his help, Ive made great strides in reading, playing and appreciating music. Many thanks, Mr. Alex!
Ye Tang
May 03, 2026
Very friendly staff, very easy to use website tools. And more importantly, my kid likes the violin teacher Ms. Kashmira Tata, who is both patient, nice and professional.
Ming Zou
May 01, 2026
My family is taking course from Mr Aaron and Ms Caitlin for Piano and Vocal. We absolutely love learning from them.
Kin-Kee Sit
Apr 29, 2026
Our 4-year-old son has been taking the Sunshine class with teacher Yuri for almost a year. It's a fun way for kids to learn the piano in a group setting and see each other progresses through out the year!
Yanran Yang
Apr 29, 2026
My daughter enjoyed her MYC class with teacher Yuri. She started from knowing nothing to music to being able to compose and perform simple rhyme. I am very happy with her progress with teacher Yuri.
Gurbinder Kaur
Oct 23, 2025
Mr Joseph is the best guitar teacher!!! My son is a big fan of him. Things couldnt go better without him, he is absolutely fantastic teacher, so considerate and accommodating! I guess he is the bestest we could ever find for my sons guitar . His methodology is so easy and flexible that my son got everything with ease.. if you want the best guitar teacher just ask for Mr Joseph Ochoa!!!
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
Piano teacher Aaron and voice teacher Akshara are great! My children (8 and 10) have been taking lessons for several months and they've both improved significantly. Both teachers are patient and have gotten my kids excited about piano and voice.
Roger Chen
May 15, 2024
both my daughter and my son had the sunshine and sun bean class with Teacher Yuri at Opus 1.. the class is fun and has a good combination of piano/basic music theory/signing. Teacher Yuri is very patient with kids, approachable and she makes the class fun.
Kids all love teacher Yuri ;)
Kids all love teacher Yuri ;)
Christy Bushnell
Feb 24, 2024
We love Opus 1. My son is 10 and has been taught by teacher Marco for almost 3 years now. Teacher Marco is amazing! He connected with my son immediately. They have progressed rapidly and he has greatly enriched my sons life. I highly recommend teacher Marco!
Julie Wu
Dec 16, 2023
Teacher Leah is wonderful! Shes great with kids. Very patient, encouraging, easy to work with. My daughter really enjoys her piano lessons with her.
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.
E. H.
Dec 08, 2022
Teacher Julia is a professional pianist and a passionate piano teacher. She is quite organized and has a great plan including what milestones to accomplish in the next 1-2 years. So as a parent I feel shes on top of things. My kid enjoyed working with her a lot!
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.
Key People
Doris Ngai Lellouche
Pianoread moreDoris 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 & Pianoread moreSici 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 Teacherread moreDr. 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 Teacherread moreDr. 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 Teacherread moreDr. 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 Teacherread moreDr. 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 Teacherread moreDr. 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 Teacherread moreEffie 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 Teacherread moreMarco 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 Teacherread moreSylvia 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 Teacherread moreYing 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 Teacherread moreMinghua 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 Teacherread moreGiselle 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 Teacherread moreChristine 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 Teacherread moreTram 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 Teacherread moreDr. 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 Teacherread moreJulia 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 Teacherread moreRebecca 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 Teacherread moreYoung-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 Teacherread moreAaron 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 Teacherread moreChloe 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.