Piano

Study. Perform. Transform.

a pianist plays expressively in hume concert hall

The SFCM Piano Department is an inspiring environment, offering exceptional mentoring and numerous performance opportunities within the program and around the Bay area.

A world-class faculty creates an atmosphere both intense and collaborative, tailored to prepare one for a professional career. Made up of less than 50 students, the SFCM Piano Department prides itself on individualized attention for each student-pianist, extraordinary instruments including New York and Hamburg Steinway Ds in every concert hall, and unique interdepartmental collaborations.

Our undergraduate and graduate programs include a weekly departmental performance class, an annual concerto competition leading to performance with orchestra, department recitals, classes on historical performance practices, Chamber music, and professional development.

SFCM pianists benefit from numerous guest-artist residencies and masterclasses which have included Yuja Wang, Leon Fleisher, Sergei Babayan, Stephen Hough, Richard Goode, Menahem Pressler, Emanuel Ax, Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Daniil Trifonov.

Faculty

Faculty

Personalized instruction from celebrated pianists

Awadagin Pratt headshot
Faculty Profile
Awadagin Pratt

Pratt, who joined SFCM's faculty in 2022, was nominated for Best Contemporary Classical Composition at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards for "Montgomery: Rounds," composed by Jessie Montgomery and performed by Pratt with A Far Cry and Roomful Of Teeth.

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SFCM Opera performance

Industry Alliances to Support Students and Artists

In recent years, SFCM acquired two leading artist management companies and an iconic record label to reimagine how elements of the music industry can better integrate to advance the human experience through music. For students, that means more opportunities to interact with touring artists and industry experts–including professional development workshops, side-by-side performances, and enhanced masterclasses.
SFCM student studying in library in 50 Oak building

Visiting the Campus

We look forward to your visit! Contact the Office of Admissions to take a tour of our facilities and audit a class. You can also contact the keyboard faculty directly to arrange a consultative lesson.
Awadagin Pratt
Student Success
Awadagin Pratt

Pratt, who joined SFCM's faculty in 2022, was nominated for Best Contemporary Classical Composition at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards for "Montgomery: Rounds," composed by Jessie Montgomery and performed by Pratt with A Far Cry and Roomful Of Teeth.

Read Article

Financial Aid and Affordability

At SFCM, we understand that college is a substantial investment. We're here to help, and we're committed to working with you to achieve the education you desire. 99% of our students receive financial aid at an average rate of 57% tuition discount.

Life on Campus

Learn about safe and secure, all-suite on-campus housing, where 24/7 practice rooms are just the beginning.

Performances

We put on more than 500 performances a year, including student recitals, masterclasses, and side-by-sides with exciting guest artists—most of them free to the public. Check out one today.

Newsroom

Get the inside scoop on everything going on at SFCM with stories of SFCM's students, alumni, faculty and leadership.

Alliances

SFCM leads an alliance across the music industry consisting of artist management companies Opus 3 Artists and Askonas Holt and recording label Pentatone. Together, their work creates opportunities for students, artists, presenters, and audiences to develop and experience new ideas.
students hold their instruments and walk along a trail where the tops of the golden gate bridge is visible behind them

Admissions

We can't wait to hear what you have to play. Apply today to start your performance of a lifetime.
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A photo of a student raising her hand at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music

How to Apply

It's a big step, we know, and we're here for you. Apply now online, request more information, or learn about our audition and application process.
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Piano in Cha Chi Ming Recital Hall at The Bowes Center.

Auditions & Repertoire

You'll be great. Check out this page for all repertoire requirements and deadlines for your major. Some Instruments and Majors may require a prescreening video.
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Keyboard