Masterclass

A Piano Masterclass
in Performance & Artistry

Led by Dr. Sarkis Baltaian

Wednesday, October 14 at 7:00 PM
OCMD Black Box Theater
17620 Fitch. Ave., Irvine, CA 92614

Join OC Music & Dance for a special Piano Masterclass in Performance & Artistry designed for intermediate and advanced pianists ages 10–18.

This 90-minute masterclass gives young musicians the opportunity to experience the artistic philosophy, teaching approach, and performance standards of the OCMD Classical Piano Program in an engaging, supportive setting—without the pressure of an audition.

The event is open to all students throughout Orange County and beyond; participants do not need to be currently enrolled at OCMD.

Admission is free for both performers and audience members.

Join the Waitlist

Perform in the Masterclass

Dr. Baltaian will provide individual coaching to a small group of student pianists, with instruction centered around musical expression, technique, interpretation, and performance.

Performance spots are limited to the first five eligible students who register.

Students should prepare a polished piece of repertoire that reflects their current level of study. During the masterclass, performers may receive coaching in areas including:

  • Tone & Voicing: developing color, balance, projection, and depth of expression

  • Pedaling: improving clarity, resonance, and tonal control

  • Performance & Stage Presence: building confidence, focus, movement, and artistry

Is This Masterclass Right for You?

The masterclass is open to both intermediate and advanced pianists ages 10–18. Explore the descriptions below to get a better sense of the experience, repertoire, and technical skills typically associated with each level.

  • Intermediate students should be able to read music independently, play scales and basic technical exercises, and perform intermediate-level repertoire from a variety of musical periods.

    Students should also demonstrate a solid understanding of rhythm, articulation, dynamics, and basic pedaling.

  • Advanced students should be comfortable performing substantial repertoire and demonstrate strong technical command and musical independence.

    Students at this level should be able to manage more complex textures, voicing, pedaling, phrasing, and interpretation. Their repertoire may include significant works by composers such as Beethoven, Chopin, Schumann, Liszt, Brahms, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff.

Not Ready to Perform? Come Observe.

Students, families, teachers, and community members are also invited to attend as audience members.

Observing a masterclass offers young pianists the chance to learn from the coaching of other students, hear how musical ideas are developed in real time, and become familiar with the expectations of high-level piano study.

To join our audience, please fill out the form below. Space is Limited.

A young man playing a grand piano in a dark setting, dressed in a white shirt and black vest, with the piano's interior and strings visible.

Discover what transforms a well-prepared pianist into a compelling performer.