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Keyboard

From black and white to a universe of color.

a pianist performs a concerto with the orchestra

Made up of a wide-ranging piano department and smaller but equally dynamic harpsichord, organ, and collaborative piano programs, our keyboard department transforms students into accomplished performers. You’ll collaborate across departments, perform within the Conservatory and around San Francisco, and develop your style alongside celebrated faculty and visiting luminaries. Small studio sizes foster personalized instruction and support. Undergraduate and graduate music degrees, as well as professional studies certificates, round out a far-reaching program that offers emphases in historical performance, collaborative piano, chamber music, and general instrument studies.

Instruments and Disciplines

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a pianist plays expressively in hume concert hall

Piano

Study. Perform. Transform.

Degrees and Programs
Bachelor of Music in Piano Master of Music in Piano Professional Studies Certificate in Piano Artist Diploma in Piano in Piano
Learn more about Piano
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Tim Bach teaching a violinist and pianist

Collaborative Piano

Your colleagues await you.

Degrees and Programs
Collaborative Piano Master of Music Collaborative Piano Professional Studies Certificate
Learn more about Collaborative Piano
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a harpsichord student and his hands from above

Harpsichord

Study harpsichord in San Francisco.

Degrees and Programs
Harpsichord Bachelor of Music Harpsichord Master of Music Historical Keyboards Professional Studies Certificate
Learn more about Harpsichord
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an organ lesson in the organ room

Organ

Bach was one of us.

Degrees and Programs
Keyboard Bachelor of Music Keyboard Master of Music Keyboard Professional Studies Certificate
Learn more about Organ
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.

SFCM Students working in a classroom

Audit a Class

We've saved a seat for you. During your visit to SFCM, sit in on a class or two and see what it's like to be a student at the Conservatory.

Keyboard performing on stage

Ensembles

Performance opportunities abound at SFCM. Ensembles featuring keyboards range from small chamber groups to the Conservatory Orchestra. Whether your interest lies in ensemble or solo repertoire, there’s a place for your unique voice.

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.