Piano and swimming for lifelong growth!

Chris S.

Hi! My name is Chris and I've been an engineer in the Bay Area since I graduated from Cornell with a BS and MEng in chemical engineering a couple years ago. Classical piano and competitive swimming have been two of my passions, and reflecting on that has led me to want to help others find and grow those passions as well.

I discovered my passion for classical piano during my 6 years as a student under Tatiana Goncharova at the Manhattan School of Music's (MSM) Precollege Program. During my time there, I realized the importance of two things: having a wide musical education and having a teacher that inspires you. While I can only hope to be inspirational, I would love to share the breadth of musical education I have received, from ear training and music theory to thoughtful musicality and confident performance, all of which together I consider key to finding your passion and growing as a pianist.

Swimming, my other passion, was a skill I initially learned because of a parent who always wanted to learn but never got to. That being said, it was never a chore - I love being in the water. And when given the chance to try out for my high school’s varsity team in middle school, I “dove in!” Swimming really brought out my competitive side, leading me to be MVP of my high school’s swim team every year and also swimming for 4 years for LIAC, a year-round club team in New York that is consistently ranked top-20 in the country. Whether you’re taking your first stroke or are looking to PR in your favorite event, we can work together to grow you as a swimmer.

With either piano or swimming, I hope to blend finding what excites and motivates you with the support you need to grow. These components together are critical for growing, which is difficult because they are rarely the same for two people. I know this too well from how my twin brother felt about piano and swimming. But with good communication and an open mind, we’ll find what’s best for you!