About Us
The Piccolo Music Academy
Welcome to the Piccolo Music Academy, Toronto’s newest beacon of musical excellence, founded in August 2024 by the esteemed Persian-Canadian cellist Shahrzad Shakeri. Our academy is a vibrant testament to Shakeri’s lifelong dedication to music and education, reflecting her remarkable journey and passion for the art.
Our Vision
At the Piccolo Music Academy, we are committed to creating a nurturing environment where students can explore and excel in their musical endeavors. Our approach to teaching is deeply rooted in the Suzuki Method, emphasizing a joyful, immersive learning experience. We inspire students of all ages—children and adults alike—to discover their unique musical voices while developing their technical skills.
Our Mission
The Piccolo Music Academy is more than just a music school; it is a vibrant community where passion and excellence converge. We offer a range of programs designed to cater to different skill levels and musical interests, ensuring that music education is accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Our individualized instruction and innovative teaching methods help students thrive and realize their artistic potential.
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Our curriculum blends classical techniques with contemporary approaches, providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for a lifelong engagement with music. We aim to be a nurturing ground for the next generation of musicians, equipping them with the tools and inspiration they need to achieve their musical aspirations.
Our Founder
Shahrzad Shakeri’s path to establishing the Piccolo Music Academy is a story woven with talent, commitment, and a profound love for the cello. Her musical journey began at the Conservatory in Paris, where she honed her skills under the mentorship of the renowned cellist Hélène Dautry. This early training laid the foundation for a distinguished career.
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Shakeri continued her studies at McGill University in Montréal, earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Cello Performance. Here, she was mentored by virtuoso cellist Matt Haimovitz and worked with other eminent musicians such as Jérôme Pernoo, Philippe Muller, Raphaël Pidoux, and Hélène Dautry. Her exceptional education earned her accolades like The Grand Prize for Contemporary Music and recognition at The Fajr International Music Festival in Tehran.
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Her international career spans solo recitals, chamber music ensembles, and orchestral performances at prestigious festivals such as the Chamber Music Festival of Banff, Académies internationales d’été du Grand Nancy et Nice, Orford Music Academy, Scotia Festival of Music, and Tinge Music Festival. Shakeri’s diverse experiences and achievements are the foundation of our academy.
Our Offerings
We are proud to offer instruction in a variety of instruments, including guitar, violin, piano, cello, flute and vocal. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced musician, our expert faculty provides personalized guidance to help you achieve your musical goals and enrich your artistic expression.
Join Us
As we open our doors, the Piccolo Music Academy stands as a testament to Shahrzad Shakeri’s extraordinary journey and her unwavering commitment to advancing the art of music. We are excited to inspire and shape the future of music education in Toronto and beyond. Join us in this exciting new chapter and discover the joy of music at the Piccolo Music Academy.