Piano Lessons

Hi, my name is Sophie. I have been teaching piano since 2020 and graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2025. More information on my education is on my LinkedIn page (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiebahana).

I have my AMusA and LMusA diplomas (AMEB) in piano performance, as well as Grade 6 Music Theory. Recordings of my playing, where I was selected as a finalist on a national level on several occasions, can be found on YouTube:

Bach Competition 2019 (my best recorded solo performance to date): https://youtu.be/5zuddurQYPk?t=347

Bach Competition 2018: https://youtu.be/smRmWRGf_u4?t=2400

Little Lev Piano Showcase 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqExGK75BHY

More content is available to watch on my YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@sophiebahana

I teach people of all ages and tailor my lessons to the student's level and areas of interest. It is not necessary to be young or want to become a professional to learn and enjoy music. It is more than enough to have a curiosity about music and a wish to learn or attain a skill.

I am experienced in preparing students for AMEB exams, performances, competitions/eisteddfods and music scholarship auditions. I create a learning environment where my students can open up and be themselves, and feel at ease in experimenting with their music-making and self-expression.

I am particularly passionate about and adept at teaching my students to play in a tension-free manner, preventing common playing-related injuries such as repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis. My university studies in anatomy (UniMelb), and my training in the Taubman approach (Dorothy Taubman) with Dr. Sonya Lifschitz have helped me to successfully retrain numerous students to play without pain and tension.

Apart from diagnosing and problem-solving technical issues, I provide students with guidance on analysing and interpreting musical texts, and give specific and actionable practice advice so that they are well-equipped as musicians. When working with students, my approach is collaborative, person-centred and neuroaffirming. In running a lesson, my priorities are that my students feel emotionally regulated, have fun, and derive value from the material we cover and the guidance I provide. My teaching philosophy has been shaped by my studies of piano performance with Dr Mark McGee.

My private practice is based in Vermont, which features a grand piano, an adjustable seat and a pedal extender.

I have a Working With Children's Check.

You can reach me at sophienovenabahana@gmail.com

—Testimonials—

Both my sons are learning piano with Sophie. She is knowledgeable and very patient with young kids. She is also able to adapt her teaching style to suit the student’s style of learning. So far, I am very happy with Sophie. - Christine

My daughter has been taking piano lessons from Sophie for a few years now. Sophie is an excellent teacher- she is very patient and always has a great attitude when teaching. Sophie continues to motivate my daughter to practise and improve every day. Her knowledge and interest in music are inspiring and her skills are very impressive. I would definitely highly recommend Sophie to anyone who is looking for a great piano teacher. - Meita

Last edited: August 2026