Rise Music
Music lessons for all ages and abilities!

Piano |
Voice |
Guitar |
Rise Music
Music lessons for all ages and abilities!
Piano |
Voice |
Guitar |
Our Facilities
When students are given the opportunity to learn music with the highest quality of instruments, they not only have more fun, but they also develop an ear for how an instrument should sound.
That’s why RISE has committed to be a Steinway School, which means all of our pianos are designed and maintenanced by Steinway & Sons Piano Company.
We want our students to experience firsthand how premier instruments feel and sound, so their musicality has a strong foundation.
We have 5 private music rooms for individual lessons and 1 group music room for band and ensemble lessons.
We offer lessons for piano, voice, guitar, bass guitar, violin, and more. If you are interested in a particular instrument not listed, please let us know!
Frequently Asked Questions
We've never taken music lessons before - how do lessons work?
As a first-time music student, private lessons can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here’s what you can expect when starting private music lessons:
- Scheduling: The first step is to schedule a standing weekly lesson time that works for your schedule. Lessons are 30 minutes long; intermediate and advanced students who require additional instruction can enroll in back-to-back 30-minute lessons for a full hour each week. You can search our current available lesson times here: available private music lessons.
- Duration: Enrollment in music lessons is a commitment for the entire music semester. We currently have three semesters: fall, spring, and summer.
- Introduction and Assessment: In your first lesson, your teacher will likely take some time to get to know you and your musical background, if any. They may ask questions about your goals, interests, and previous experience with music. The teacher might also conduct an assessment of your current skill level to better understand where to begin your musical journey.
- Instrument Familiarization: If you’re a beginner or new to your instrument, the teacher will introduce you to the basics of your instrument, including its parts, how to hold or position it, and how to produce sound. They may demonstrate proper technique and provide guidance on posture, hand positioning, or breath control, depending on the instrument.
- Foundation Building: The initial lessons will focus on building a strong foundation. You’ll learn fundamental techniques, such as producing a clear tone, basic fingerings, reading musical notation, or understanding rhythm. The teacher will guide you through exercises and simple pieces that help you develop these foundational skills.
- Setting Goals: Together with your teacher, you’ll discuss your musical goals and aspirations. Whether you want to play a specific style, learn certain songs, prepare for an exam, or simply enjoy playing recreationally, the teacher will help structure your lessons to align with your objectives.
- Learning Resources: The teacher may recommend instructional books, sheet music, online resources, or supplementary materials to support your learning journey. They might suggest recordings or performances to inspire you and provide examples of excellent musicianship.
- Patient and Supportive Environment: Private music lessons are designed to be a safe and supportive space for learning. The teacher will be patient, understanding, and encouraging as you navigate the learning process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek clarification, or express any concerns you may have.
- Personalized Instruction: Private lessons offer personalized instruction tailored to your needs and learning style. The teacher will adapt their teaching methods and pace to suit your individual strengths and challenges. They may provide additional explanations, demonstrations, or exercises to address specific areas of improvement.
- Practice Guidance: The teacher will guide you on how to practice effectively between lessons. They’ll provide practice strategies, tips, and exercises to help you reinforce what you’ve learned and make progress. It’s important to dedicate regular practice time outside of lessons to develop your skills.
- Incremental Progress: Learning an instrument is a gradual process, and progress may not always be immediately noticeable. Your teacher will help you set realistic expectations and celebrate small milestones along the way. Remember that consistency and regular practice are key to steady improvement.
- Enjoyment and Fun: Music lessons are not just about learning techniques and theory; they’re also about enjoying the process of making music. Your teacher will aim to create a positive and enjoyable learning environment, incorporating engaging activities and music that you find inspiring and enjoyable.
Remember, every music teacher has their unique approach and teaching style. It’s essential to communicate openly with your teacher, ask questions, and share your musical preferences and goals. By actively participating in the learning process and maintaining a positive attitude, you’ll have a fulfilling experience in your private music lessons.
How are the music lessons structured?
Private music lessons involve one-on-one instruction between you and your music teacher. Here’s an overview of how private music lessons generally work:
- Lesson Format: Each lesson is held in one of our private music studios on campus at RISE located at 2323 W Sam Houston Parkway North Building B Houston, TX 77043. The lesson will focus on the specific aspects of your instrument or music theory that you’re learning. The teacher will guide you through exercises, techniques, theory, and repertoire, tailoring the content to your skill level and goals.
- Curriculum and Progression: Private music lessons are tailored to the individual student’s needs and goals. The teacher will create a curriculum that progresses at an appropriate pace based on your skill level. They may use instructional books, sheet music, online resources, or their own teaching materials to guide your learning. As you progress, the teacher will introduce more advanced concepts and pieces.
- Practice: Private music lessons are most effective when combined with regular practice. Your teacher will assign practice exercises and pieces for you to work on between lessons. It’s crucial to set aside dedicated practice time to reinforce what you learn during lessons and improve your skills.
- Performance Opportunities: Depending on your goals and interests, you may consider participating in our winter and spring music recitals. Recitals are held here at RISE and can be valuable for gaining confidence, showcasing progress, and learning how to perform for an audience.
- Evaluation and Feedback: Throughout your lessons, your instructor will provide constructive feedback and guidance to help you improve. They may correct your technique, suggest musical interpretations, or offer tips for overcoming challenges. Regular evaluations can help track your progress and identify areas for improvement.
The benefit of private music lessons is that you’ll receive personalized instruction that helps you progress toward your specific musical goals.
What is the tuition for music lessons?
Each 30-minute private music lesson is $40. Enrollment is on a semester-basis (fall, spring, summer). Tuition is billed in monthly installments on the first of each month. Tuition installment amounts fluctuate to match the number of lessons available during a given month and are prorated for the initial month of enrollment.
After completing a semester, if you decide to unenroll, you must notify us in writing by emailing [email protected] one week before the end of the current semester. Late unenrollment notifications are subject to our early cancellation penalty policy.
Notification to unenroll before the end of the music semester is subject to the early cancellation fee. Withdrawing from music lessons before the end of the semester results in an early cancellation penalty that is the equivalent of four weeks’ worth of tuition. Our instructors are contract employees and rely on the reliability of their scheduled lessons. It can take at least four weeks or longer to fill a time slot that opens up during non-peak enrollment periods. This policy is in place to ensure we retain high-quality instructors for our students and families!
Are there any other fees besides tuition?
All RISE families who enroll in any of our programs must pay a $40 registration fee that renews annually for as long as your students remain enrolled. The registration fee is applied to your account on the same date each year.
Students who elect to participate in our music recitals must pay a performance fee. You can find the performance fee amount detailed online in the lesson description during enrollment. This fee covers the costs of lighting and sound equipment, stage and tech staff, decorations, music licensing, certificates, programs, and more.
Does RISE offer an initial trial lesson?
Yes, the first lesson for all new students is treated as a trial to give you an opportunity to confirm that the lessons are a good fit. If after enrolling and attending the initial lesson you decide for any reason that you would no longer like to continue, we will issue a prorated refund for the tuition minus the trial lesson.
We must receive notification at [email protected] at least 24 hours prior to the 2nd scheduled lesson to honor the grace drop period after the initial lesson. Failure to give notification 24 hours before the 2nd scheduled lesson will result in full enrollment and any notification to withdraw afterwards is subject to the early cancellation fee.
Do students participate in music recitals?
We hold a music recital for students at the end of the fall and spring semesters on-site at RISE. Participation is optional, but highly encouraged! Details concerning the date and time of the recital can be found online on the lesson enrollment page.
Performing in a music recital offers numerous benefits for students, especially those who are brand new to their respective instrument. Here are some of the reasons why performing is so great:
- Skill Development: Recitals provide an opportunity to showcase and develop musical skills. The process of preparing for a recital involves diligent practice, refining techniques, and enhancing musical interpretation. Regular recital performances can significantly contribute to a student’s growth and mastery of their instrument.
- Performance Experience: Recitals offer valuable performance experience, allowing students to become comfortable with being on stage and sharing their music with an audience. Performing in front of others helps build confidence, reduces stage fright, and improves overall stage presence.
- Self-Expression and Artistic Communication: Recitals allow students to express themselves artistically. As students progress in their skill and repertoire, they have more options to select pieces that allow them to tell stories, convey emtions, and connect with the audience on a deeper level. It provides a platform for sharing their unique musical interpretations and creative choices.
- Feedback and Evaluation: Recitals provides an opportunity to receive constructive feedback and evaluation. Feedback can help students identify areas for improvement, refine their technique, and gain insights from their instructors.
- Goal Setting and Motivation: Preparing for a recital involves setting specific goals, such as learning and memorizing a piece, improving technical skills, or achieving a desired level of expression. These goals provide a sense of purpose and motivation, driving students to strive for excellence in their practice and performance.
- Building Repertoire: Recitals encourage students to expand their repertoire. Performing in front of an audience motivates students to explore a diverse range of musical styles and genres, allowing them to build a comprehensive and varied repertoire.
- Celebration of Achievement: A recital serves as a celebration of the student’s progress and achievements. It provides a moment to showcase the culmination of hard work and dedication, both for the performer and their supporters. The sense of accomplishment and recognition can be highly rewarding.
Overall, participating in a music recital offers students a chance to develop their skills, gain performance experience, express themselves artistically, receive feedback, set goals, expand their repertoire, and celebrate their achievements. These benefits contribute to personal growth and help students refine their craft.
Can I sit in on my child's music lessons?
Parents or guardians are always welcome to sit in and watch any music lesson. Attending music lessons with your student offers several benefits for both you and your student, including:
- Support and Encouragement: When parents attend music lessons, they provide emotional support and encouragement to their child. The presence of a familiar face can make the child feel more comfortable and confident during the lesson. It shows the child that their musical pursuits are valued and supported by their parents.
- Understanding and Reinforcement: Parents who observe music lessons gain a deeper understanding of their child’s progress, challenges, and learning process. This knowledge enables them to reinforce the teacher’s instructions and guidance at home, ensuring consistency in practice and skill development. They can help their child remember key points, practice effectively, and reinforce proper technique.
- Active Involvement: Being present during music lessons allows parents to engage with their child’s musical journey. They can actively listen to the music being played, ask questions, and participate in discussions with the instructor. This involvement helps parents stay connected with their child’s interests and aspirations, fostering a stronger parent-child bond.
- Communication and Feedback: Observing the music lesson provides parents with an opportunity to communicate with the instructor, ask questions, and seek feedback on their child’s progress. They can gain insights into the specific areas their child needs to focus on and discuss strategies for improvement. This collaboration between parents and teachers promotes a supportive learning environment.
- Goal Setting and Motivation: When parents are present during lessons, they can participate in goal-setting discussions with the teacher. This collaboration allows for aligning expectations and defining achievable milestones for the child’s musical development. Parents can then provide ongoing motivation and support to help their child work towards these goals.
- Reinforcement of Discipline and Responsibility: Observing music lessons can reinforce the importance of discipline, commitment, and responsibility in the child’s musical journey. Parents can witness the effort required to learn and practice an instrument, encouraging the child to develop good practice habits and a strong work ethic.
- Shared Musical Experience: Attending music lessons together creates a shared musical experience for parents and children. They can bond over music, appreciate the progress made, and celebrate achievements together. This shared interest can strengthen the parent-child relationship and create lasting memories.
Working together, parents and instructors can help students have a wonderful experience with music lessons where they are both supported and challenged!
Performance Opportunities
Our campus offers students several performance spaces where they can showcase what they’ve been learning. Performing is an integral part of our music program; we believe students should have as many performance opportunities as possible to help normalize the experience of playing in front of an audience.
We build confidence by starting with smaller, more intimate performances for family and friends. Students then work up to performing more difficult pieces for larger audiences.
We offer performance opportunities in our lobby space, in our group music rooms, our 2,400 sq. ft. performance space, and our 2,400 sq. ft. outdoor lawn!
Performance Opportunities
Our campus offers students several performance spaces where they can showcase what they’ve been learning. Performing is an integral part of our music program; we believe students should have as many performance opportunities as possible to help normalize the experience of playing in front of an audience.
We build confidence by starting with smaller, more intimate performances for family and friends. Students then work up to performing more difficult pieces for larger audiences.
We offer performance opportunities in our lobby space, in our group music rooms, our 2,400 sq. ft. performance space, and our 2,400 sq. ft. outdoor lawn!
Teaching Methodology
We understand that no two students learn the same way, and that’s why our teaching approach is custom-tailored to the specific needs and interests of each student. Our music instructors have a diverse background in teaching methodologies and curricula, enabling us to ensure that our approach matches each student.
The one common denominator for all of our lessons is that they be engaging and fun. Students will only progress when they are genuinely enjoying what they’re learning; that’s why we make it a point to have a blast during our lessons!
Our Instructors

Andrei Chelaru, BM
Piano, Composition
Andrei Chelaru was born in Iasi, Romania and moved to North America at a young age, eventually making Houston home in 2009 and earning his Bachelors of Music from Sam Houston State University.
Andrei has been a performer and teacher of various musical styles throughout the greater Houston/Huntsville area and enjoys playing a wide variety of music including classical music, jazz, latin jazz, and pop. He is an avid learner of music and enjoys not only playing written music, but also composing and improvising original music in a wide variety of styles.
Andrei has worked with students of all ages and enjoys instilling a love of music in his students. He loves to see his students progress over time all while gaining confidence and enjoyment in their newfound abilities.
Although teaching traditional piano lessons is his primary focus, he also teaches jazz piano, music composition, music theory, musicianship and other specific aspects of music.
In his spare time, Andrei enjoys lifting weights, salsa dancing, eating delicious food and spending time with family and friends.

Treshana Lewis, NYVC
Voice, Piano
Treshana Lewis is a piano and voice instructor, professional singer-songwriter, and worship leader here in Houston. She’s had a passion for music her entire life and has been singing since the age of 2. As a child Treshana frequently got in trouble for singing during class but soon found fertile ground for her love of music to bloom in private lessons, choirs, and ensembles. She has an appreciation for all styles of music including classical, gospel, pop, musical theater, and jazz.
Treshana received her Voice Teacher Certification from Justin Stoney’s esteemed New York Vocal Coaching program. Alongside being a professional singer and music teacher she is also a Licensed Mental Health Professional with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Treshana draws on her expertise in Mental Health to help empower her students to overcome the psychological challenges they may encounter on their musical journey (performance anxiety, self-criticism, etc.).
Treshana enjoys working with children of all ages and is passionate about helping them learn to love music.

Margarita Divinskaya, BM
Piano
Margo Divinskaya has been successful pianist, chamber artist and teacher for over 27 years. She performed at Houston Ballet and HB Academy, HSPVA, SPA, City Ballet of Houston, Joffrey Ballet Schools of New York and San Antonio, Pittsburg Ballet Theatre School, Twin City Ballet of Monroe, Company on Stage in Houston, Regional Dance America Festivals, Feijoo Ballet School and many more.
Ms. Divinskaya received a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from Kiev State R.M. Glier College of Music in Ukraine. She had an opportunity to learn from distinguished teachers Olga Lotova, Roman Gindin,
Valeriy Kozlov.
After graduation Ms. Divinskaya worked for 10 years as a teacher, pianist and concertmaster at Kiev State Children’s Music School preparing students for Recitals, Tests and Festivals.
In 1992 she moved to Houston and continues performing and successfully preparing kids for different National and International Tests and Events.
While learning to express the music of great composers past and present, her students discover how to achieve technical freedom and professionalism with their piano playing.

Mike Barrows, BA
Guitar, Bass Guitar, Piano
Mike Barrows earned a bachelors of Music in Guitar Performance from the University of St. Thomas in Houston. He has had a passion for music his entire life which began at the age of 6, starting with piano lessons from his mother, a Master Organist. After picking up interested in guitar, Mike began taking lessons formally at age 17. His first teacher introduced him to jazz, blues, and music theory and this has been his true passion ever since.
Mike has led and been a member of blues bands, classic rock cover bands, jazz bands and duos and has performed solo as well freelance gigs throughout the past 17 years. He has also played in worship bands at various churches in Houston and is currently the guitarist in the worship band at Emmaus Road church in Katy, TX.
Mike has been teaching privately for 14 years and has a passion for teaching guitar. He has taught hundreds of guitar students of all skill levels from beginner through advanced and all ages from 7 years old to adults. He also teaches beginner piano lessons to children and adults.

Fiona Reid, HND
Piano, Voice, Guitar
Fiona Reid is a fun-loving, multi-cultural, globetrotting, singer/songwriter and music instructor who has gained a wide variety of experience in several areas of the music industry after completing her HND in music in Edinburgh, Scotland. Fiona credits her diverse musical background to helping her find her true happy place: teaching and training students in music!
Fiona comes with 15 years of performance experience along with her own success in teaching private music lessons, vocal coaching, and launching a young artist development course. She has performed in a variety of bands and styles including multi-art form productions. She has managed and produced shows and events, recorded and produced original music, commercially released singles, and song-written for other artists.
Growing up, Fiona’s creative and musical family moved between their different countries before making home in Houston. She continued to travel and see as much of the world as possible during her music career before settling back in Houston to be close to family.
Fiona’s teaching style is creative, adaptive, and individual-based. Her passion is to help her students have a blast while discovering their musical gifts and talents!
Our Instructors

Andrei Chelaru, BM
Piano, Composition
Andrei Chelaru was born in Iasi, Romania and moved to North America at a young age, eventually making Houston home in 2009 and earning his Bachelors of Music from Sam Houston State University.
Andrei has been a performer and teacher of various musical styles throughout the greater Houston/Huntsville area and enjoys playing a wide variety of music including classical music, jazz, latin jazz, and pop. He is an avid learner of music and enjoys not only playing written music, but also composing and improvising original music in a wide variety of styles.
Andrei has worked with students of all ages and enjoys instilling a love of music in his students. He loves to see his students progress over time all while gaining confidence and enjoyment in their newfound abilities.
Although teaching traditional piano lessons is his primary focus, he also teaches jazz piano, music composition, music theory, musicianship and other specific aspects of music.
In his spare time, Andrei enjoys lifting weights, salsa dancing, eating delicious food and spending time with family and friends.

Treshana Lewis, NYVC
Voice, Piano
Treshana Lewis is a piano and voice instructor, professional singer-songwriter, and worship leader here in Houston. She’s had a passion for music her entire life and has been singing since the age of 2. As a child Treshana frequently got in trouble for singing during class but soon found fertile ground for her love of music to bloom in private lessons, choirs, and ensembles. She has an appreciation for all styles of music including classical, gospel, pop, musical theater, and jazz.
Treshana received her Voice Teacher Certification from Justin Stoney’s esteemed New York Vocal Coaching program. Alongside being a professional singer and music teacher she is also a Licensed Mental Health Professional with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Treshana draws on her expertise in Mental Health to help empower her students to overcome the psychological challenges they may encounter on their musical journey (performance anxiety, self-criticism, etc.).
Treshana enjoys working with children of all ages and is passionate about helping them learn to love music.

Fiona Reed, HND
Piano, Voice, Guitar
Fiona Reid is a fun-loving, multi-cultural, globetrotting, singer/songwriter and music instructor who has gained a wide variety of experience in several areas of the music industry after completing her HND in music in Edinburgh, Scotland. Fiona credits her diverse musical background to helping her find her true happy place: teaching and training students in music!
Fiona comes with 15 years of performance experience along with her own success in teaching private music lessons, vocal coaching, and launching a young artist development course. She has performed in a variety of bands and styles including multi-art form productions. She has managed and produced shows and events, recorded and produced original music, commercially released singles, and song-written for other artists.
Growing up, Fiona’s creative and musical family moved between their different countries before making home in Houston. She continued to travel and see as much of the world as possible during her music career before settling back in Houston to be close to family.
Fiona’s teaching style is creative, adaptive, and individual-based. Her passion is to help her students have a blast while discovering their musical gifts and talents!

Mike Barrows, BA
Guitar, Bass Guitar, Piano
Mike Barrows earned a bachelors of Music in Guitar Performance from the University of St. Thomas in Houston. He has had a passion for music his entire life which began at the age of 6, starting with piano lessons from his mother, a Master Organist. After picking up interested in guitar, Mike began taking lessons formally at age 17. His first teacher introduced him to jazz, blues, and music theory and this has been his true passion ever since.
Mike has led and been a member of blues bands, classic rock cover bands, jazz bands and duos and has performed solo as well freelance gigs throughout the past 17 years. He has also played in worship bands at various churches in Houston and is currently the guitarist in the worship band at Emmaus Road church in Katy, TX.
Mike has been teaching privately for 14 years and has a passion for teaching guitar. He has taught hundreds of guitar students of all skill levels from beginner through advanced and all ages from 7 years old to adults. He also teaches beginner piano lessons to children and adults.

Margarita Divinskaya
Piano
Margo Divinskaya has been successful pianist, chamber artist and teacher for over 27 years. She performed at Houston Ballet and HB Academy, HSPVA, SPA, City Ballet of Houston, Joffrey Ballet Schools of New York and San Antonio, Pittsburg Ballet Theatre School, Twin City Ballet of Monroe, Company on Stage in Houston, Regional Dance America Festivals, Feijoo Ballet School and many more.
Ms. Divinskaya received a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from Kiev State R.M. Glier College of Music in Ukraine. She had an opportunity to learn from distinguished teachers Olga Lotova, Roman Gindin,
Valeriy Kozlov.
After graduation Ms. Divinskaya worked for 10 years as a teacher, pianist and concertmaster at Kiev State Children’s Music School preparing students for Recitals, Tests and Festivals.
In 1992 she moved to Houston and continues performing and successfully preparing kids for different National and International Tests and Events.
While learning to express the music of great composers past and present, her students discover how to achieve technical freedom and professionalism with their piano playing.
RISE Music Lessons in Houston, TX
Houston is a city bursting with artistic energy, and its thriving music scene provides a remarkable opportunity for children to explore and cultivate their musical talents. RISE music lessons for children in Houston offer a supportive and enriching environment where young minds can develop their musical abilities, ignite their creativity, and embark on a lifelong journey of self-expression. Students looking for music lessons in Houston have several benefits thanks to the city’s vibrant music culture.
- A Flourishing Music Culture for Kids:
Houston boasts a diverse and vibrant music culture that embraces all genres, making it an ideal city for children to immerse themselves in various musical styles. From classical to jazz, pop to country, Houston offers a wealth of opportunities for young musicians to explore different sounds and find their unique musical interests. By taking music lessons at RISE in the heart of West Houston, children can tap into this rich musical heritage and discover the joy of expressing themselves through the universal language of music.
- Expert Music Educators Specialized in Teaching Children:
Houston’s music education scene is home to highly skilled and experienced music educators who specialize in teaching children. RISE prides itself on hiring instructors who understand the unique needs and learning styles of young students and who create a nurturing and engaging environment that fosters their musical growth. With their expertise and patience, RISE music teachers tailor their lessons to suit each child’s age, abilities, and interests, ensuring a positive and productive learning experience.
- Building Confidence:
Participating in music lessons provides children with opportunities to showcase their talents and build confidence. RISE offers its students the opportunity to perform in recitals and Houston’s music community is full of additional opportunities for collaborations, concerts, and competitions, all of which help students develop stage presence and overcome stage fright.
RISE music lessons in West Houston offer children a gateway to a world of musical exploration and personal growth. With its thriving music culture, expert educators, and abounding performance opportunities, Houston provides an ideal environment for nurturing young talent. By enrolling your child in music lessons at RISE, you are giving them the opportunity to develop a lifelong passion for music, cultivate their creativity, and acquire valuable skills that extend far beyond