About The Instructor
Allegría Piano instructor Michelle Casillas has had her work featured in film, radio, and the New York Times playlist. As an international performing artist Michelle’s work has been acclaimed by the New York Times, Time Out New York, Brooklyn Academy of Music, the All Music Guide and the Village Voice, among others. Born into a family of musicians and educators in New York City, Michelle obtained her BA of Music summa cum laude from New York University's School of Education, and has been providing piano instruction both privately and in classrooms for 20+ years.
About Allegría Studio
Conveniently located on Manhattan's Upper East Side in the Carnegie Hill / Yorkville neighborhood, the Allegría Piano studio holds all private lessons and workshops on our world-class Model A Mason and Hamlin grand piano. Our concerts are held locally and are performed on a Steinway Model A grand piano. Study and performance on handcrafted instruments of the highest distinction promote optimal technique and musicianship.
About The Allegría Program
Allegría Piano students explore a broad range of musical styles, engage in storytelling through musical expression, and reinforce learning with game structured musical activities. Students often choose to add on additional music to their repertoire, from favorite artists, films and musicals. They leave their lessons empowered and excited, self-motivated for home review.
Students also share and inspire each other in fun workshops and performances- Enthusiasm paves
the way for longevity and growth!
"Michelle, you have really been amazing with our daughter. We both know that there are people who could condition her to play scales but you are somehow keeping her mind in the work in a way she can own it that is unique to her. It's a totally different accomplishment than just moving through the books, and she is doing both. I am sincerely appreciative and very lucky too to get to see my kid grow like this." -Rachel S.
"Michelle makes music fun and meaningful to each of my kids in very different and unique ways. They're learning to appreciate music as they understand it. My kids adore her."
-Stephanie C.
"It's exciting for us too! Thanks so much for your hard work and care. Our daughter really looks forward to her lesson. I'm so pleased with the musical education that you are giving her." -Charlie G.