My Background

Welcome to Irena Burkett's Piano Studio in Oregon City, Oregon. I teach both children and adults, from beginners (5 and older) to advanced learners. My lessons cover a variety of musical styles, from classical to contemporary, and I offer beginning composition and improvisation. I provide comprehensive musicianship instructions that include ear and rhythm training, harmony, technique, and artistry. Seeing my students grow and learn is the most rewarding part of my job. Thank you for choosing my Piano Studio!

• 12 years of classical training and a Masters Degree in Music Education from Moscow State Pedagogical University
• Taught students of all ages since 1986 - both children and adults
• Member of NFMC/OFMC Oregon teaching license
• Former President of South Metro Federated Teachers
• Taught at both private and public schools Bilingual & bicultural (Russian/English)​
• Church choir director since 1994, in Milwaukie, OR
• Enjoy hiking, nature, friends, and reading in my free time. I love my boys, who are college students now.
• Born and raised in Russia, emigrated to the US in 1994, but still have my Russian accent!

Private in-person piano lessons: designed to meet the specific needs and goals of each student. This includes a balance of theory, sight-reading, ear training, and repertoire appropriate to the student's level of proficiency. In-person instruction will take place in a private studio in Oregon City, Oregon.

Partner lessons: Playing the piano doesn't have to be limited to solo performances. When students are given the chance to be part of a duet or trio, they become more motivated to practice and perform. Positive peer pressure is introduced in piano lessons, making it an enjoyable activity. As students realize they can play well with others, they gain more confidence and become more eager to tackle solos that would have once overwhelmed them. Collaborating with others to create music helps foster friendships, and some of these friendships can last a lifetime.

Music holds a special place in our hearts and has a way of bringing us together during important moments in our lives. It's a gift that we're fortunate to have, and I feel privileged to share it with my students of all ages. I wholeheartedly believe that music is a vital part of the human experience.