At first glance the Tholen Fellows program seemed like a crazy idea — who was I to study with such a high-powered concert artist? Thinking further, I decided ‘why not?’ There would be nothing to lose and it might be fun to see how far I could go improving my playing in two years’ time. The price was right! And furthermore, I thought ten years down the road I would regret passing up the opportunity.

Looking back, it’s one of the best experiences I could have asked for as a piano teacher. I gained a huge reservoir of information and techniques that still positively impact my teaching and practicing. As a bonus, it helped me sail through the process of becoming a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music. A perfect combination that I strongly recommend to anyone who qualifies for this program and wants to strive for that goal.

Thanks to Portland Piano International I have had the wonderful experience of being a Tholen Fellow. Studying for two years with Tatiana Ioudenitch was a challenge and richly rewarding as her high standards compelled me to become both a better pianist and teacher. I continued online study with her even after the fellowship had ended to work towards a goal of playing a concerto with our local orchestra last year.

One of the merits of this great program is Tatiana is able to work with any skill level of pianist and help that person look deeper into the richness of the music. She is a fabulous resource as a teacher and even her online lessons were a great help and encouragement to me. This program is such a unique and rich resource for teachers and pianists and I would strongly recommend not missing this opportunity to study as a Tholen Fellow especially with the ease of online lessons now.

The lessons for teachers provided by the Tholen Fund have been just exactly what I needed. My goal was to light a fire (under my piano bench) and prepare my 10th solo piano recital, even though 14 years have gone by since number nine. Yes, there’s the intimidation factor, but as with any good teacher, Tatiana Ioudentich is there to help me. My job is to put my ego aside and learn everything I can from her. It takes a whole lifetime to figure out how to play the piano and so, to be able to participate in these high-caliber lessons is extraordinary. I was not feeling stable when September lessons were coming up, but I signed up anyhow. Those three lessons gave me a sense of normalcy in the chaos we’re living through. My piano bench is warm. I feel like myself and I know what to do.

I do not have a degree in piano performance, so was initially somewhat insecure with my skill level, but have learned that the teachers accept our ability and begin where we are at with piano playing skills. Believe me, I was rusty during my first lesson! Those of us who have had not had lessons for many years are welcomed and encouraged by these excellent, highly credentialed instructors. They are also regular human beings who have a genuine desire to develop our piano playing skills as well as our knowledge of repertoire for our students. I highly recommend participation in this program for all of the reasons previously stated. Also, for those of us who are entering our “Golden Years”, it is one more way to keep our brains active and retain our mental health. Our teachers are not judgmental and only offer support and encouragement.

I was excited and eager from the very start, yet I also had some feelings of anxiety and fear as I had not studied privately for such a long time. The idea of practicing consistently and regularly and playing for a teacher again can certainly seem intimidating after so many years away from study.

But from the very first lesson, Dr. Alexander Shtarkman put me at ease. We talked at my first lesson about my background, my concerns and fears, my goals and desired outcome for the study period. Dr. Shtarkman listened and helped me to form a plan. Each lesson has been an amazing experience for me as both a teacher and as a pianist. I have learned so much from this fellowship and from Dr. Shtarkman. It has truly been life changing for me. I cannot emphasize enough that I am so grateful to Portland Piano International and to Dr. Shtarkman for this project.

At I would really like to encourage you to apply for this wonderful opportunity. It’s amazing to me that a grant is available to provide this chance at professional level coaching at absolutely no cost, except for the time involved in practicing (lol). Portland Piano is actively looking for more teachers who are interested in taking advantage of this program.

Both Tatiana and Alexander are extremely warm and approachable, not at all intimidating. They work with each person at their individual ability and level, always pushing them to attain the best possible outcome. The fact that the lessons are virtual now makes it a little easier to schedule one’s life around, as they are once a week or so for 3 weeks every 3 months, instead of having to dedicate an entire weekend to drive to Portland for an intense 3 days every 3 months.

Tatiana has been the one assigned to the Roseburg applicants so far. I found myself very stretched at first, not having had any lessons or input since high school (in the 60s!), but once I got over the hump, I was very pleased with the progress I made. I found her very exacting, but also very encouraging and quick to praise progress. And she’s good at getting you to produce the results she wants.that goal.