🎹 Dr. Jana Bertova – Pianist, Educator & International Music School Founder

🎓 Education & Academic Achievements

  • Conservatory of Music, Košice (Slovakia) – Piano Studies

  • Master of Science in Music Education & Piano, University of Prešov (1987–1992)

  • Master of Science in Special Education, Comenius University, Bratislava (1995)

  • Doctor of Pedagogy, Comenius University (1999)

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music Education, Comenius University (2000)

Her academic path combined piano performance, music education, and special pedagogy, laying the foundation for her lifelong work in both music and education.

👩‍🏫 Teaching & Leadership Experience

  • 20+ years of international teaching in Europe, the UK, USA & Switzerland

  • Piano & music teacher at Elementary School of Art, Gelnica (Slovakia)

  • Music & special education teacher at a Slovakian Special School

  • Later became Vice Principal (2 years) and Principal (5 years), collaborating with the Ministry of Education and partner schools in Europe

  • 2003–2011: Teaching positions in the USA (Ashley Hall, Charleston) and UK (London primary schools), also earned a Professional Teacher Certificate (USA)

  • Since 2011: Teaching in international and multilingual schools in Switzerland

  • Founder of the Swiss International Music School (Steinhausen, ZG)

  • Founder of Music, Art & Language School Blueberries (2022)

  • Co-founder of EKIA – Emma Kodály International Academy (2025)

🏅 Awards, Publications & Recognition

  • Presenter at international conferences and workshops on cultural awareness

  • Published articles on music’s impact on speech, emotions & attention in children with special needs

  • South Carolina Outstanding Cultural Educator (2008)

  • Nominee for Cultural Educator of the Year (2008)

  • Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in the UK

  • Languages: Slovak, English, Czech, German

🏆 Student Achievements

Her students regularly excel at international competitions, including:

  • 🥇 Gold – 1st Prize, Canadian International Piano Competition (2020, 2025)

  • 🥈 Silver – 2nd Prize, Grand Metropolitan International Music Competition (2021)

  • 🥈 Silver – 2nd Prize, Euro Elite International Music Competition (2022)

  • 🥉 Bronze – 3rd Prize, Canadian International Piano Competition (2022)

  • 🥇 & 🥉 1st & 3rd Prizes – “The Golden Keys” Competition, Rheinau, Switzerland (2018)

Even her youngest students achieve international success — a 5-year-old student won 3rd prize, and she begins lessons with children as young as 2 years old.

✨ Philosophy

Dr. Jana Bertova sees music as far more than an art form:

  • 🎶 A tool for personal growth

  • 🌍 A bridge for cultural understanding

  • 🤝 A way to foster human connection

Through her teaching, leadership, and international projects, she continues to inspire students of all ages to discover their highest musical potential — and to carry the joy of music throughout their lives.

🎹 Sara Mojzes – Piano Teacher in Zug, Zürich, Luzern & Aargau

Sara Mojzes is a dedicated and passionate piano teacher who inspires students of all ages and levels to discover the beauty of music. With a teaching style that combines musical theory, practical skills, and artistic expression, she helps every student develop into a confident and creative musician.

🌟 A Student-Centered Approach

Sara adapts each lesson to the individual learning level and personality of her students. She understands that every child or adult progresses differently, so she designs lessons that are both structured and flexible. This personalized approach ensures that all students — from complete beginners to advanced players — feel supported, challenged, and motivated.

🎵 Teaching Young Learners with Joy

For very young beginners, Sara applies play-based methods that make learning piano fun and stress-free. Through games, rhythm activities, and age-appropriate repertoire, children naturally acquire essential skills in listening, coordination, and musical awareness. Her aim is to create an environment where children are excited to learn and build a positive, lasting relationship with music.

🎶 Technique and Musicality – Growing Together

Sara believes that correct piano technique is inseparable from musical expression. She guides her students to develop strong technical foundations — posture, hand position, touch, and finger strength — while at the same time encouraging them to play with sensitivity, phrasing, and imagination. This balance allows her students to grow into pianists who can perform with both precision and artistry.

💡 Motivation and Inspiration

Sara places great importance on helping her students find their inner motivation. She believes that true progress in music comes from passion and curiosity. Whether preparing for ABRSM exams, playing favorite songs, or performing in recitals, she encourages each student to set goals, celebrate achievements, and enjoy the journey of learning.

🌍 Building Lifelong Musical Skills

Under her guidance, students not only learn how to read music and perform repertoire but also develop broader skills such as creativity, discipline, concentration, and self-confidence. These qualities extend beyond music and enrich many aspects of their lives.

✨ With her warm personality, professional expertise, and inspiring teaching style, Sara Mojzes creates piano lessons that are engaging, rewarding, and deeply musical — helping each student unlock their full potential at the piano.

🎹 Jana Bertini – Piano & Keyboard Teacher

🎓 Education & Background

  • Began her music journey at the age of 5

  • Holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education and English

  • Brings a wealth of experience in multiple professional roles:

    • 🎼 Music & Piano/Keyboard Teacher

    • 🎹 Private Piano Instructor

    • 📚 English Teacher

    • 👩‍💼 Assistant to the Principal, Swiss International Music School

    • 👩‍🏫 English & Music Teacher at the Swiss Primarschule & Sekundarschule Meisterschwanden (Grades 1–6)

Jana is also committed to ongoing professional development, constantly expanding her knowledge to provide her students with the highest quality of music education.

👩‍🏫 Teaching & School Experience

  • English & Music Teacher, Primarschule Meisterschwanden (since 2023)

    • Teaches bilingually (English & German)

    • Organizes projects & school performances (musicals, Christmas concerts)

  • Piano Teacher, Swiss International Music School (since 2020)

    • Teaches both international and local students (incl. Zurich International School, Tandem IMS Zurich, Elementa Tagesschule Neuheim)

    • Develops students’ talents across cultures and ages

    • Prepares students for concerts, exams, and competitions with outstanding results

    • Designs individualized lesson plans tailored to each student’s abilities

  • Assistant to the Principal, Swiss International Music School

    • Coordinates programs and timetables

    • Manages communications, administration, and quality control

    • Supports strategic planning and school development

🌟 Why Students & Parents Love Jana

  • Children love her for her warmth, patience, and creativity – every lesson is both fun and inspiring.

  • Parents value her professionalism, dedication, and exceptional teaching skills.

  • She has a strong reputation in the region, and many families specifically request her as their piano teacher.

  • Students feel motivated to practice at home and make faster progress thanks to her encouraging approach.

    🌍 Languages

    • English, German, Slovak, Czech

🎶 Teaching Philosophy

Jana believes that piano lessons should be joyful, motivating, and meaningful.

  • Technique and theory are always linked with musicality and expression

  • Students learn to express their emotions through music

  • Motivation comes from success and a positive learning environment

  • Her goal is not only to teach students to “play correctly” but to inspire them to play with passion and confidence

✨ A Teacher Who Inspires

Jana Bertini is more than a teacher – she is a mentor, motivator, and role model. Her lessons are filled with energy, care, and inspiration, helping children and adults alike grow into confident, creative musicians.

👉 Many parents say: “Since my child started lessons with Jana, they’ve fallen in love with the piano – and they practice on their own with joy.”

🎹 Mr. Canberk Duman – Composer, Pianist & Dedicated Piano Teacher

🎓 Education & Academic Journey

    • Began music studies at Yaşar University in Izmir (2014–2018), graduating under the mentorship of Dr. Füsun Köksal with the highest award.

    • Earned his Master’s Degree in Contemporary Composition at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) in 2021.

    • Completed his Master’s Degree in Music Theory at ZHdK in 2023.

    • Currently pursuing a PhD in Musicology (Musikwissenschaften) at SINTA / University of Bern, combining performance, composition, and academic research.

🎼 Performance & Artistic Work

  • His compositions have been performed in Poland, Russia, Switzerland, Greece, Belgium, and Turkey.

  • Attended numerous masterclasses and festivals, working with world-renowned composers such as Helmut Lachenmann, Beat Furrer, Oscar Bianchi, Matthias Pintscher, and Francesco Filidei.

  • Collaborated with acclaimed ensembles including:

    • Neue Vocalsolisten Stuttgart

    • Ensemble Ictus

    • Ensemble Arc-en-Ciel

    • Collegium Novum Zurich

    • Hezarfen Ensemble

  • Creates piano transcriptions and arrangements across genres, adapting pieces into solo or four-hand versions tailored to the student’s level.

 

🎵 Teaching Philosophy & Experience

  • Has been teaching piano, solfège, and music theory since the age of 18 to both children and adults.

  • Integrates improvisation and encourages students to notate their own music, fostering creativity and self-expression.

  • Over 8 years of teaching experience with students ranging from age 4 to adults.

  • Strongly believes piano should be a tool of self-expression, relaxation, and joy.

  • Supports students in discovering their passion for composition, guiding them in notation, harmony, and music theory.

  • Lessons are personalized, inspiring, and creative, blending tradition with modern approaches.

🌟 What Makes His Lessons Unique

  • Encourages students to see piano as both an art form and a calming free-time activity.

  • Helps students grow closer to their instrument by combining:

    • 🎶 Piano performance

    • 🎶 Improvisation & creativity

    • 🎶 Music theory & harmony

    • 🎶 Composition fundamentals

  • Provides custom arrangements of pieces that students want to learn, making even advanced works accessible and enjoyable.

💬 His Promise

“My priority is always the student’s desire for the piano and the joy of playing. I guide them to express themselves freely through music, to grow artistically, and to enjoy every step of their piano journey."

Mr. Duman looks forward to meeting you in person and sharing his passion for piano, composition, and creativity with you!

🎹 Anna Joziak – Pianist & Piano Teacher

🎓 Education & Background

  • Began piano studies at the age of 6

  • Bachelor’s & Master’s Degree in Piano – Karol Lipiński Music Academy, Wrocław & Karol Szymanowski Music Academy, Katowice (2000–2006)

  • Completed 4 years of Psychology & Pedagogy studies

  • Attended numerous master classes and workshops in Poland and abroad

👩‍🏫 Teaching & Professional Experience

  • Over 15 years of piano teaching experience in Poland, the UK, and Switzerland

  • Music Schools in Poland (2003–2018): Piano teacher, accompanist, and later Head of Piano & Accordion Department

    • Organized concerts, exams, and student workshops

    • Prepared students for national and international competitions

    • Member of examination and audition juries

  • Private Piano Teacher in the UK (2018–2022):

    • Taught children and adults, organized Christmas and Summer concerts

    • Prepared students successfully for ABRSM exams

    • Collaborated with a cabaret improvisation group, composing and performing live music

  • Since 2022 – Switzerland: Teaching piano in Nänikon and Doncaster (UK) with a growing base of students of all ages

🎼 Artistic Work

  • Performs as a soloist, in four-hand piano duos, and with other instrumentalists (violin, voice, flute, trumpet)

  • Active accompanist in string and wind departments, performing at competitions and festivals

  • Concert appearances in Poland, Germany, and the UK

🏆 Achievements & Recognition

  • Students have successfully passed ABRSM exams and participated in school competitions and concerts

  • Experience as a jury member in piano competitions and audition committees

  • Organized and led piano workshops for teachers and students in Poland

🌍 Languages

  • Polish (native), English (fluent)

  • German (intermediate), basic knowledge of other languages

  • 🌟 Teaching Philosophy

Anna believes that everyone can play piano – what matters is the joy and satisfaction of progress:

  • Each student is unique, and she adapts her methods to the individual needs and personality of every learner

  • Piano lessons develop not only technique, but also creativity, imagination, sensitivity, reflexes, and fine motor skills

  • Music is a source of happiness, self-expression, and confidence, as well as a tool for personal growth and overcoming challenges

Her teaching is about more than just notes – it’s about helping students discover the magic of music and enjoy every step of their journey.

 

✨ With her broad experience, warm personality, and passion for sharing music, Anna Joziak inspires children and adults alike to learn, grow, and fall in love with the piano.

🎹 Chiara Baruffi – Piano Teacher

🎓 Education & Background

  • Master of Arts in Music Performance – Zürcher Hochschule der Künste, Zürich (2022–2024)
    Prof. Karl-Andreas Kolly

  • Master of Arts in Music Pedagogy – Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana, Lugano (2020–2022)
    Prof. Alessandro D’Onofrio

  • Erasmus+ Study Year – Hochschule für Musik und Theater München (2018–2019)
    Prof. Margarita Höhenrieder

  • Bachelor in Piano Performance – Conservatorio G. Verdi, Milan (2015–2020)
    Prof. Silvia Rumi

  • Pre-Academic Piano Course – Conservatorio G. Verdi, Milan (2011–2015)

👩‍🏫 Teaching & Professional Experience

  • Piano Teacher – CTM Centro Musicale Territoriale, Cambiago (2020)

  • Piano Teacher – Summer Camp Camp d’été, Ayer (Val d’Anniviers), Switzerland (2024)

  • Accompanist – Concours Suisse de Musique pour la Jeunesse, Geneva (2024) – awarded prize as Piano Accompanist

  • Chamber music partner & accompanist for masterclasses and competitions (strings, winds, voice)

🎼 Artistic Work & Skills

  • Performances at Sala Verdi (Milan), Großer Konzertsaal (Munich), Saal Volkshaus (Biel), Piano City Milano, and international chamber festivals

  • Collaborations with Trio Helicon, violinists Alexandra Maria Seywald & Sara Signa, and other international artists

  • Recordings on Steinway & Sons Spirio pianos (Janáček)

  • Early recognition: Sony Classical Talent Scout recording, orchestral debuts with Bacau Symphony Orchestra, masterclass with Lang Lang

🏆 Achievements & Recognition

  • Prize winner at Diapason d’Oro and Villa Oliva competitions

  • Scholarships from Rotary Club of Lugano and Giosè Casalotto Foundation

  • Selected for summer academies and festivals in Switzerland, Italy, and Germany

🌍 Languages

  • Italian (native)

  • English (fluent)

  • German (advanced)

✨ Teaching Philosophy

  • Builds strong technical foundations and refined musical expression

  • Encourages creativity, confidence, and individuality

  • Creates a motivating, supportive, and enjoyable learning environment

✨ With her international background, concert experience, and dedication to pedagogy, Chiara Baruffi brings artistry, warmth, and inspiration to every piano lesson at SIMS.

🎻 Beatriz Arias – Violin Teacher

🎓 Education & Background

Beatriz Arias was born in Cuba in 1997 and grew up in a family of musicians, surrounded from an early age by Cuban folk and popular music. Alongside this rich musical environment, she began her formal classical violin education at the Conservatory in Havana.

Her talent and dedication led to her being one of the few students selected from her year to continue with a Bachelor’s degree in Violin at the National Institute of Arts in Cuba. She completed her studies with a final violin recital and was awarded the Gold Diploma qualification.

Since July 2022, Beatriz has been living in Zurich, Switzerland. She is currently continuing her advanced musical education at the renowned Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Basel, where she is pursuing her Master’s degree and further developing her knowledge of historical performance practice and early

👩‍🏫 Teaching & Professional Experience

Beatriz combines a strong classical foundation with extensive experience across many different musical styles. Her professional career has included classical music, early music, Cuban traditional and popular music, jazz, chamber music, fusion projects, and recording work.

She performed with Camerata Romeu as Concertino, taking a leading violin role within the ensemble. She has also performed with Ars Longa, specialising in early music and playing the Baroque violin, as well as with a Jazz Philharmonic Orchestra and a Cuban popular music band.

Her musical work has taken her beyond Cuba, and she has been invited as an artistic guest to perform in countries including Panama, Mexico, the USA, and several European countries. She has participated in numerous chamber music and fusion projects and has contributed to multiple professional recordings.

Alongside her performing career, Beatriz is actively involved in music education and teaches violin across different musical styles. At the Swiss International Music School (SIMS), she teaches children and young musicians, bringing her broad international performing experience directly into her lessons.

🎼 Artistic Work & Skills

  • Classical violin and advanced violin technique
  • Baroque violin and historical performance practice
  • Cuban folk and popular music
  • Jazz, fusion, and contemporary musical styles
  • Chamber music and ensemble playing
  • Concertino and orchestral experience
  • Professional recording experience
  • International concert and performance experience
  • Improvisation, rhythm, and collaborative music-making

    • 🏆 Achievements & Recognition

  • Gold Diploma qualification in Violin, Cuba
  • Selected for Bachelor studies in Violin at the National Institute of Arts
  • Concertino with Camerata Romeu
  • Early-music performance with Ars Longa on Baroque violin
  • Performances with Jazz Philharmonic Orchestra and Cuban popular music ensembles
  • Artistic guest performances in Panama, Mexico, the USA, and several European countries
  • Participation in chamber music, fusion projects, and multiple recordings
  • Advanced studies at Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, Basel

    • ⭐ Teaching Philosophy

    Beatriz believes that music has no borders and no limits. Her teaching reflects her own musical journey, which connects classical violin with Cuban musical traditions, early music, jazz, popular music, and contemporary styles.

    Rhythm and playing together are central to her approach. Having grown up surrounded by Cuban music while simultaneously receiving rigorous classical violin training, she understands music not only as something to be studied individually, but also as something to be experienced, communicated, and shared with others.

    She encourages students to develop a strong technical foundation while remaining curious, expressive, and open to different musical languages. Listening, rhythmic awareness, musical interaction, creativity, and ensemble playing form an important part of her lessons.

    For Beatriz, learning the violin should develop both the musician and the individual. She aims to pass on not only her knowledge and professional experience, but also her genuine passion for music, helping students discover their own musical personality and experience the joy of making music together.

    •  

    🎻 Dionysis Kostis – Voice and Piano Teacher

    🎓 Education & Background

    Originally from Athens (Attica, Greece), with roots in Zakynthos and Messenia in the southwestern Peloponnese, he began his musical journey at a very early age with piano lessons at a local conservatory, where he quickly developed a strong connection to music.

    He continued his formal studies at the Athens Conservatoire, focusing on classical piano, advanced music theory, and choral singing, studying with distinguished teachers such as Eugenia Syrioti, Aliki Vatikioti, Antonis Kontogeorgiou, Kyriakos Tsolakis, and Elena Res.

    He graduated from the Philippos Nakas Conservatory with a Piano Diploma—the highest academic distinction in the Greek conservatory system—and was awarded Second Prize under the guidance of Alexandra Papastefanou, an acclaimed pianist, composer, and professor.

    In addition, he holds a Diploma in Vocal Teaching of Contemporary and Modern Singing from the Nea Melodia Conservatory, graduating with the highest distinction (“Excellent, unanimously”) from the class of Maria Roumani.

    Alongside his musical training, he completed a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Ioannina (Department of Plastic Arts and Art Sciences), specialising in Art History, Museology, Cultural Management, and visual arts applications.

    👩‍🏫 Teaching & Professional Experience

    He is an experienced performer, singer, and educator with a strong passion for combining piano and voice in a lively, engaging, and inspiring way.

    His artistic work spans a wide range of styles, with a particular love for pop, jazz, soul, funk, and Latin music. Singing plays a central role in his musical identity, and he brings a vibrant, expressive, and joyful approach to vocal work in all lessons.

    He has performed in numerous concerts, artistic venues, and collaborations within the Greek music scene, as well as appearing on The Voice of Greece (2018) and participating in the Eurovision national selection process as both a singer and composer.

    He is the founder of Wings Band, where he and his collaborators present creative interpretations of well-known repertoire in jazz, Latin, soul, funk, and disco styles.

    In his teaching, he works with children, teenagers, and adults, with a particularly strong ability to engage young learners through singing, rhythm, movement, and playful musical exploration. His lessons are dynamic, interactive, and full of positive energy, encouraging students to enjoy music from the very first moment.

    🎼 Artistic Work & Skills

    • Piano performance (classical and contemporary styles)
    • Vocal performance across pop, jazz, soul, funk, and modern styles
    • Strong focus on singing as a natural and joyful form of expression
    • Composition, songwriting, and creative music production
    • Founder and artistic director of Wings Band
    • Live performances and collaborations in diverse musical settings
    • Recording collaboration in the album Pasiphae
    • Ability to combine piano playing and singing in engaging performance and teaching formats

    🏆 Achievements & Recognition

    • Piano Diploma (Philippos Nakas Conservatory – highest distinction)
    • Diploma in Vocal Teaching – “Excellent, unanimously”
    • Second Prize in Piano under Alexandra Papastefanou
    • Participant in The Voice of Greece (2018)
    • Eurovision national selection candidate (singer & composer)
    • Contributor to the album Pasiphae
    • Extensive performance experience across contemporary and popular music genres

    ⭐ Teaching Philosophy

    He is a warm, energetic, and inspiring teacher who places joy, creativity, and self-expression at the centre of musical learning.

    Singing is a key element of his teaching approach. He encourages students—especially children—to explore their voice freely and confidently, discovering that singing is natural, fun, and accessible to everyone.

    For young children, he creates a playful and engaging learning environment that includes songs, movement, rhythm games, and imaginative activities. Pop songs, familiar melodies, and creative exploration make learning exciting, accessible, and full of joy.

    For older students, he combines structured technical development with stylistic exploration across genres such as pop, jazz, and contemporary music. Students are encouraged to experiment, improvise, and develop their own musical identity.

    He also supports students in singing in different styles—from pop and contemporary to expressive and soulful interpretations—always adapting to the student’s voice, interests, and personality.

    He believes that music education should be joyful, motivating, and empowering, helping students develop confidence, creativity, self-expression, and a lifelong love for music.

    🌍 Languages

    • Greek (native)
    • English (fluent)

    🎸 Nektarios Sakellariou – Classical Guitar Teacher

    Classical Guitar • Composition • Creativity • Ensemble Playing

    🎓 Education & Background

    Nektarios Sakellariou is a classical guitarist, composer, performer, and educator from Athens, Greece, currently based in Switzerland. He began studying classical guitar at the age of six and later continued his advanced musical education at the National Conservatory of Athens under Nikos Hatzieleftheriou, graduating with the Guitar Diploma awarded with Excellent and Second Prize — officially certified by the Greek Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

    Alongside his musical studies, he also studied Chemistry at the University of Athens. His academic formation included harmony, solfège, music history, morphology, chamber music, and pedagogy, all completed with the highest distinctions. He additionally attended masterclasses with internationally acclaimed guitarist H. Keppel.

    👨‍🏫 Teaching & Professional Experience

    Since 2008, Nektarios has taught classical guitar at conservatoires and music schools across Greece and Switzerland, working with children, teenagers, and adults in both individual and group settings.

    Over more than fifteen years of teaching experience, he has built and directed guitar classes with more than 500 students, developed guitar departments from the ground up, prepared students for examinations and performances, and organised numerous concerts and ensemble projects.

    His student ensembles performed repertoire ranging from Bach, Telemann, and Satie to Hatzidakis, Theodorakis, and Karaindrou, with concerts at important venues including the Megaron Concert Hall and the Maroussi Concert Hall.

    Throughout his career, he has been recognised for his pedagogical rigour, artistic excellence, and personal dedication to every student.

    🎼 Artistic Work & Creative Projects

    Alongside his teaching career, Nektarios has maintained an active artistic life as a solo performer, ensemble musician, composer, and writer.

    As a long-standing member of the GuitArte Ensemble (2008–2022), he participated in concerts, festivals, recordings, radio and television appearances, including performances of the Concerti Grossi of Corelli and Vivaldi and the recording of the CD 4 Concerti Grossi a preparar l'avvenire (2019).

    He also performed as a soloist in Rodrigo’s Concierto Andaluz, participated in multidisciplinary productions combining guitar, theatre, dance, and video-art, and collaborated in more than 50 performances with actor, writer, and poet Giannis Proestakis.

    As a composer and creator, Nektarios combines classical tradition with contemporary creativity. His original musical fairy tale The Lake (Der See) explores themes of music, memory, and emotional transformation and was performed with the GuitArte Ensemble in Greece.

    Under the artistic name Inside Analogues, he composes and produces electronic music using synthesizers and electronic instruments, releasing the albums After (2020) and Ganz (2023), both available on Spotify and Apple Music. He also wrote the screenplay and music for the short film Loop, currently in production.

    🌟 Teaching Philosophy

    Nektarios believes that music is above all a vehicle for creativity, connection, joy, and personal expression. His teaching approach combines technical precision with deep musical sensitivity and is always adapted to the individual personality, goals, and learning pace of each student.

    From the very first lesson, he integrates healthy technique, posture, expression, creativity, improvisation, and ensemble playing as natural parts of musical development. His goal is to help every student build confidence, artistry, and a lifelong connection with music.

    🌍 Languages

    Greek (native) • English (fluent) • German (developing)