Payam Music Launches Innovative Piano School in Los Altos, Bay Area
Payam Music Launches in the Bay Area
Today marks a significant milestone for music education in the Bay Area as Payam Music, a pioneering piano school, opens its doors at 881 Fremont Avenue in Los Altos, California. This innovative school is set to redefine the way children and individuals learn music, bringing its award-winning approach to Silicon Valley. As the fourth Payam Music location in the country, it serves as the first of several intended Bay Area expansions.
Founded by Payam Khastkhodaei, a former medical student turned music educator, Payam Music has a mission that extends beyond teaching piano; it aims to ignite a passion for music while enhancing creative skills and focus in students. Unlike traditional music schools that primarily use written sheet music, Payam Music utilizes a patented alphanumeric notation system that allows students to play real songs right from their first lesson. This methodology promotes accelerated learning and fosters a direct human connection between students and teachers—without the interference of screens or artificial intelligence.
The school's unique approach has resulted in remarkable achievements. Within just four years, an impressive 96% of students reach diploma-level proficiency, an astounding result when compared to conventional methods. Recently, Payam Music students from Washington State outperformed their peers by securing four of the five top honors in the PTA Reflections competition, boasting a national #1 winner among a staggering 300,000 students. Such success validates the effectiveness of their innovative teaching practices, which are designed to inspire students to enjoy playing music, rather than simply mastering it.
Statistics reveal a troubling trend: while nearly two-thirds of Americans have played an instrument at some point, many cease to do so, often expressing regret. In the realm of piano lessons, a staggering $3.8 billion is spent annually in the U.S., yet 80-85% of students abandon their lessons within the first year. Payam Music challenges this norm with its engaging curriculum centered around individualized learning experiences. Each new student undergoes a