Virtual Studio Opening August 2025
Now accepting new students! Schedule your free 15-minute consultation today.
Anyone can learn, anywhere
American Music Academy is proud to present our virtual lesson studio
Now, anyone can learn to play an instrument. We have gathered an elite team of instructors to provide the flexibility of virtual lessons from the comfort of your own home. We are here to guide you through virtual lessons, from the set-up of your first lesson to performance.
Meet Your Instructor
Dr. Maria Lyapkova - Piano
An exceptionally versatile pianist, keyboardist, and educator, Maria Lyapkova has graced international stages in the United States, Europe, and Russia. Her wide-ranging repertoire encompasses five centuries of music with a special interest in historical performance.
Maria has collaborated with leading musicians across the globe, performing with principals from major orchestras and opera houses such as the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, Bolshoi Theatre, and Indianapolis Symphony. She served as Director of Collaborative Piano at DePauw University and held Collaborative Pianist appointments at various universities, including Stephen F. Austin State University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Ever exploring, she has worked with renowned composers Gunther Schuller, Joseph Schwantner, and Lori Laitman, premiering Laitman’s work Into Eternity in 2023.
An inspirational pedagogue, Maria has led residencies and masterclasses at esteemed institutions across the U.S., including Northern Kentucky University, the University of Central Florida, and the University of Tampa. With top accolades, including a Master’s in Piano and Historical Performance from Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory and a Doctorate in Collaborative Piano from the University of Texas at Austin, Maria continues to inspire audiences through her musical finesse, technical prowess, and impassioned leadership.
Virtual Studio FAQ:
What type of virtual lessons do you offer?
We currently offer virtual piano lessons in 30-, 45-, and 60-minute increments. Starting in Fall 2025, we will begin offering violin lessons and voice lessons.
How much do lessons cost?
Pricing is dependent on the length of your lesson.
30-minute lessons are $170 per month, 45-minute lessons are $255 per month, and 60-minute lessons are $340 per month. These pricing packages include one lesson every week, on the same day, at the same time, and with the same instructor. Billing for recurring lessons is processed automatically 3-days before the first of the month for all of the lessons in that month.
Please note that we will prorate monthly billing during months where the studio is closed for holidays, or if there happen to be more that four lessons in the month based on the way the calendar falls. There is a one-time registration fee of $25 added to the first month’s tuition.
For students who wish to book a trial lesson before committing to recurring lessons, we bill for the cost of one lesson in order to schedule the trial. A 30-minute trial lesson is $42.50, a 45-minute trial lesson is $63.75, and a 60-minute trial lesson is $85.
What equipment do I need for virtual lessons?
The first thing you need is a strong internet connection that can support video calls. You will also need a device like a laptop or computer to conduct these video calls. You will also need an instrument to play!
What platform do you utilize to conduct lessons?
High-quality lessons will always be our top priority. With this ethos in mind, we are employing the services of Muzie.Live for all of our virtual lessons. Muzie.Live is a platform that was developed by music instructors specifically to support the success of virtual lessons.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Absolutely! At the American Music Academy, we believe that performance is an integral part of a well-rounded music education. All students of AMA are encouraged to participate in our semi-annual recitals. Recitals are held at the end of our Fall and Spring semesters, and there is no cost to perform. Please note that all recitals are held in the great city of Houston, TX.
What ages do you accept for virtual lessons?
Depending on parent involvement, we can accept new students as young as 5-years old.
Is parental involvement required?
Yes, for students under the age of 18 parental involvement is required. Please note that parental involvement guidelines will be established by your instructor in your 15-minute consultation. Please note that students under the age of 18 do not need to be present for the initial free 15-minute consultation!
Do you accept adult students?
Yes! We believe that an instrument can be learned at any age, and are accepting adult students of all skill levels. Whether you are returning to your love of an instrument or embarking on your musical journey for the first time, virtual lessons are a wonderful option for adult students with busy schedules.
What happens if I need to miss a lesson?
With our virtual lesson studio, we are able to provide more flexible options for rescheduling missed lessons. When provided with a minimum of 24-hours notice, we are able to schedule up to two private makeups for you per month which equates to up to 24 makeup lessons per year. Your makeup lesson will always be administered with your regular instructor. Please note that makeup lessons must be used within 30 days of the missed lesson.
What curriculum is utilized for virtual lessons?
Our instructor tailor their curriculum based on the needs, goals, and skill levels of each individual student. Your instructor will inform you of what lesson books you may need during your initial 15-minute consultation.
How do I get started with virtual lessons?
First, schedule a free 15-minute consultation with one of our amazing virtual lesson teachers!
Your teacher will discuss requirements for virtual lessons and answer any questions you might have to help you determine if virtual lessons are the right fit for you and/or your student.
Next, your instructor can assist with scheduling a trial lesson or set up a recurring weekly lesson.
And that’s all folks- you are learning to play an instrument!
Ready to get started? Schedule your FREE 15-minute consultation today!
Have more questions? Submit an inquiry!
Please fill out the following form to give us some more information about yourself, what instrument(s) you are interested in (please note we only offer virtual piano lessons at this time), and what days/times you would prefer for a regular lesson. We will contact you to answer your questions!