Piano and Keyboard
Become a Better Pianist with Berklee
Develop your piano or keyboard technique and gain a greater command of various musical styles including blues, rock, and jazz.
Masterclasses Are Here!
Learn from Berklee’s acclaimed instructors over the course of one live session for only $99.
Courses
Courses are best for students who are looking to meet a specific need, or simply want to get started with Berklee Online. No application necessary.
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Next semester starts Jan 13, 2025
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12 Weeks / 4 Weeks
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5-10 Hours Per Week
OPERF-110
Level 1
Learn an approach to improvisation that applies to all styles and instruments by studying legendary players and finding your own style by learning to develop solos on the fly.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-100
Level 1
Master the basics of piano keyboard technique and chord voicings, and gain an understanding of more advanced concepts like interpretation of lead sheets and improv.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-150
Level 1
Build skills that will help you write, produce, and perform music using keyboards ranging from acoustic piano to modern controllers with virtual instruments.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-101
Private Piano Lesson Level 1 is an introduction to formal keyboard study and performance. The instructor will assess your skill level. Additionally, the instructor will assess the history of your piano training and technique in order to appropriately plan a course of study that will support your learning trajectory and goals.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-102
Private Piano Lesson Level 2 builds upon the skills developed in Level 1. You will learn major scales and major root-position triad arpeggios in the keys of F, B♭, E♭, and A♭, as well as triadic chord progressions in those keys. You will continue to work on new technique exercises and focus on hand position and posture. You will be introduced to the concept and application of tensions, which are additional notes added to chords to add harmonic richness.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-210
Level 2
This keyboard course is designed for students who have some previous experience with this instrument, but want to take their skills to the next level. The course bridges the gap between entry-level keyboard courses and more advanced and challenging ones, covering a wide range of skill sets.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-245
Level 2
Learn how to construct, recognize, and musically use essential chords at the keyboard.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-240
Level 2
Piano Scales 101 will teach the working knowledge of the most essential scales for the piano.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-200
Level 2
This course focuses on the basic tools for the piano player to be able to perform powerfully and confidently. We will discuss physical and technical practices that will reinforce and improve your performance skills.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-230
Level 2
Learn to play authentic keyboard parts in a wide range of pop/rock styles, including rock, R&B, dance pop, classic rock, country, and more.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-201
Private Piano Lesson Level 3 builds upon the skills developed in Level 2. You will be introduced to major scales and major root-position triad arpeggios in the keys of B, F♯, and C♯, as well as triadic chord progressions in those keys. You will continue to work on technique exercises as well as hand position and posture. You will be introduced to the concept and application of altered tensions, which are additional notes added to chords to add harmonic richness.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-202
Private Piano Lesson Level 4 builds upon the skills developed in Level 3. Previously covered major scales will now be performed in four octaves in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1 at 72 BPM. Previously covered major root-position triad arpeggios will now be performed in four octaves in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-203
Private Piano Lesson Level 5 builds upon the skills developed in Level 4. You will be introduced to natural, harmonic, traditional, and real melodic minor scales and arpeggios in the keys of G♭, B, E, A, D, and G hands together, four octaves at 72 BPM, in several rhythmic groupings. You will also be introduced to minor triadic chord progressions in those minor keys.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-220
Level 3
Explore the piano and keyboard techniques and improvisation styles associated with common blues and rock styles. Explore theory, harmonic concepts, patterns, and more.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPERF-312
Level 3
Learn the art of jazz improvisation from Gary Burton, one of the most renowned improvisers in the jazz world.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-315
Level 3
Learn jazz piano by strengthening your command of the melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that make up this rich art form.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-300
Level 3
This course will explore the wide variety of styles in Latin American music, from the perspective of the piano. We will focus intensely on rhythmic elements, but also explore harmonic and melodic elements, as well as the historical and social context that led these styles to be developed and become popular.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-310
Level 3
The role of keyboards in recorded music is vast and diverse; from acoustic piano ballad playing to synthesis, sound design and beat making in modern pop music. This course will focus on the role of “piano-based” keyboards in various styles of music through the lens of recording and technology.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-305
Level 3
This course is the continuation of the material presented in Piano Technique 101, and will give you the opportunity to apply techniques and concepts you explored previously, along with new and deeper material to develop a more powerful proficiency on the piano.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-301
Private Piano Lesson Level 6 builds upon the skills developed in Level 5. You will be introduced to major and minor pentatonic scales and root position dominant 7th arpeggios in 12 keys, hands together, four octaves at 72 BPM, in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1, as well as diatonic 7th chord progression in 12 keys.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-302
Private Piano Lesson Level 7 builds upon the skills developed in Level 6. You will be introduced to blues scales in 12 keys performed hands together, four octaves at 72 BPM, in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1. You will be introduced to root position diminished 7th chord arpeggios in 12 keys hands together, four octaves at 72 BPM in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1, as well as secondary dominant 7th chord progression in 12 keys.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-400
Level 4
In Advanced Jazz Piano, you will be able to analyze, curiously reimagine, and perform songs in the advanced jazz piano styles covered in this course. A special emphasis will be placed on aspects of solo piano performance, group performance, chord voicings, creating lines, left hand/right hand independence, and Afro-Latin influence on jazz improvisation.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-410
Level 4
This course will demonstrate and teach students the history, styles, and techniques of the gospel keyboard.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPIAN-405
Level 4
The focus of this keyboard course is on live performance, providing students with software and hardware tools to achieve professional results in this particular setup. We will discuss different keyboard artists and their techniques, and keyboardist’s best practices for a successful professional career.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-401
Private Piano Lesson Level 8 builds upon the skills developed in Level 7. You will be introduced to diminished and whole-tone scales in 12 keys performed hands together, four octaves at 72 BPM, in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1. You will also work on major scales in 3rds or 10ths and 6ths in 12 keys performed hands together, four octaves at 72 BPM, in rhythmic groupings of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
OPLPN-402
Private Piano Lesson Level 9 is an opportunity for you to demonstrate the depth and breadth of the skills you have developed in the piano program.
- Credit: $1,545
- Non-Credit: $1,290
Certificates
Gain the professional credentials and marketable skills you need to succeed in your specific area of the music industry. Certificates range from foundational-skill building to graduate-level. No application necessary.
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Next semester starts Jan 13, 2025
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3-18 Months
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5-10 Hours Per Week
Advanced Professional
8
Courses
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24
Credits
This customizable program allows you to earn an Advanced Professional Certificate in General Music Studies by choosing eight courses from any interest area.
Advanced Professional
8
Courses
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24
Credits
This music theory certificate program will help you gain a professional command of the mechanics behind most of the contemporary music that you enjoy.
Now with more flexible course options!
Advanced Professional
12
Courses
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36
Credits
Take your piano playing to the next level with a comprehensive program that blends essential technical skills with an exploration of diverse styles. Customize your path, from technique and improvisation to learning rock, blues, jazz, pop, and Latin styles, and take your artistry to new heights.
Now with more flexible course options!
Professional
4
Courses
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12
Credits
Learn different keyboard performance styles, starting with signature riffs and licks of the masters, and then increase your repertoire and develop your improvisation skills.
Professional
3
Courses
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9
Credits
Gain a concrete foundation in music, from reading and writing music notation to advanced topics such as modal and pentatonic melodies and harmonic tensions.
Professional
4
Courses
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12
Credits
This customizable program allows you to earn a Professional Certificate in General Music Studies by choosing four courses from any interest area.
Now with expanded course options!
Professional
4
Courses
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12
Credits
Get hands-on with the keys in this dynamic program, exploring everything from reading music to diving deep into improvisation, technique, and advanced chord and scale work. Build your chops and transform your piano playing.
Degree Programs
Degree programs are the most affordable and flexible option for earning your music degree from Berklee College of Music. They are the best option for students who want a music education degree and the full Berklee experience.
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Apply by Dec 16 for Jan 13, 2025 semester start and SAVE:
• $75 application fee waived (last day!)
• Apply in as little time as 15 minutes
• Get a decision within 1 week -
Master's Degree: 1-3 Years
Bachelor's Degree: 2-4 Years -
5-10 Hours Per Week
36
Credits
Expand your knowledge and skills in four areas critical to advancing a career in the music industry: music business, music production and technology, songwriting, and film scoring.
120
Credits
This undergraduate degree program will empower you with the musical development and keyboard skills required of a modern musician in today’s industry.
120
Credits
“Build your own” music major by selecting coursework from a number of disciplines that align with your personal career goals.
45 of 120
Credits
This major is geared specifically for new and entering students who are not yet ready to declare their major.
New! Masterclasses
With Berklee Online’s new Masterclasses, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from Berklee's acclaimed instructors over the course of one live session for only $99.
Led by
Suzanne HanserSound Expertise
With instructors who are not just experts but trailblazers in their fields, our team has shaped the sound of countless artists, from emerging talents to chart-topping superstars.
Sean Slade
Radiohead, Lou Reed, Hole, Warren Zevon
Courses
Quoted
“People will say, ‘I’m interested in getting into the music business. And I say, ‘well, then forget it, because you can’t just be interested in it: You’ve got to be driven to do it.’ It’s not a matter of ‘want to.’ It’s a matter of ‘have to.’ And if you have that level of drive, then you can survive the slings and arrows of the music business.”
Students Say
“It was beyond an honor to get to have Sean Slade as a professor. I truly looked forward to every Live Class: it was a gift.”
Lenni Petrine
“Sean is an excellent instructor and a natural choice to lead this course. Everybody has a niche at Berklee, and Sean’s is having one of the most diverse palettes for music I’ve ever known. That makes him a perfect choice to help cultivate all the various styles we students bring to Berklee from a non-judgmental place. He’s empathic, accommodating/reasonable, and a delightful lecturer with a deep knowledge of music history, from jazz to hip-hop.”
Jerry Arlen
“Professor Slade is the best. He cares for his students and gives critical feedback in a timely manner, which is like gold. He also relays his passion for the music and its history, which serves only to amplify mine.”
Jeff Pettit
“I found Sean’s feedback to be incredibly insightful and helpful. His love for exploring music is contagious and engaging. He is also very quick to respond to inquiries and demonstrates great concern for the success of each student.”
Eric Thachuk
“Sean Slade is a legend and an absolute pleasure to work with. His lessons have been invaluable.”
Pablo Vega
“I very much enjoy taking classes with Sean Slade. A wonderful mentor, full of knowledge and soul.”
Jake Fleming
“It was truly a pleasure and quite the honor to work with Prof. Slade on my final project. His feedback, advice, and wisdom were invaluable. I learned so much from him.”
Mike Gaworecki
Read more ↓
Adriana Balic
P!NK, Gwen Stefani, Chris Stapleton, Sheila E.
Courses
Quoted
“Pursuing music is probably not the thing that someone’s parents would say, ‘you should be a musician,’ because it is traditionally thought of as a difficult path. However, I think that all paths are challenging in some way, so if you can pick a path that brings you joy, that feels like you have to do it and if you don’t you’ll be miserable, then pick that path! For me, it was music! If you choose music, it’s because music has chosen you and it won’t let you do anything else.”
Students Say
“Adriana is an amazing person, a huge talent, and it’s clear that she loves teaching. I appreciate getting to learn from her and glean from her insight on the industry.”
CJ Brockway
“Adriana is such a caring and passionate instructor! Her expertise is unmatched and it was a true pleasure learning from her!”
Anastassiya Petrova
Read more ↓
Prince Charles Alexander
Notorious B.I.G., Aretha Franklin, Destiny’s Child, Sting
Courses
Quoted
“What sets me apart from others in the industry is that I have been an artist, I have been a producer, I have been an engineer, I have been an educator, and I have an affinity group, which is a marginalized group that affects me and affects my creative flow and I don’t think that there are many people that have done each one of those things at the level that I’ve done them. And, at the same time, I need to have humility that I don’t have all the answers.”
Students Say
“I had a wonderful semester with Prince Charles and greatly excelled in my ability to skillfully produce a commercially viable vocal production!”
Matthew Civitano
“It was an honor and a privilege to be taught by Professor Prince Charles Alexander. I admire his decency to forge ahead and teach what needed to be taught; no matter how many students attended the Live Class. I respect his wisdom and knowledge. … This was a really uplifting and motivating course for me. It gave me the spiritual boost and emotional ‘uplift’ I didn’t know I needed. Thank you Professor, I’ll never forget you! I'lll see you in the music industry!!”
Lizz Hogue
“Professor Alexander was so amazing!! His knowledge of the subject is profound and his ability to be able to have the skill of teaching with the amount of knowledge he possesses is incredible. I feel that my skills have grown and I really want to take the class again just to soak up more of what I might have missed.”
Ryan Coffey
“Prince Charles really knows his stuff and it shows in all of the videos and the Live Classes. He has made this course very informative and I’ve learned so much. I would recommend this class to anyone.”
Matthew Wansitler
“Prince Charles is the man. It’s an honor to learn from him.”
Jeremiah Brewer
Read more ↓
Simon Yu
Ms. Lauryn Hill, Snarky Puppy
Course
Quoted
“One thing I learned from my students is that if you are very passionate about your project, that will actually show up in the project. It doesn't matter what budget you have or what camera you use, if you use your heart to film with your iPhone, with a great story that you love to produce, you’ll always come up with a good video.”
Students Say
“Professor Yu is clearly an expert in this field and is excellent at teaching the material in a way where students are able to more easily understand the various techniques/skills and empowers us to experiment further on our own. Professor Yu’s feedback is constantly supportive and thoughtful, and he offers effective constructive feedback to improve our projects and our approach. I especially appreciated his live session recordings where he performs examples of our next assignments, so I don’t feel completely overwhelmed/helpless with just the course material instructions. I really enjoyed learning under Professor Yu and feel that I’ve gained a lot from this course!”
Yuki Z
“Professor Yu is very knowledgeable while being extremely helpful and easy to talk to!”
Sofia Nuovo
“Simon Yu is very knowledgeable, responsive, helpful and encouraging. All the attributes of a great teacher.”
Robert Dale Klein
“Prof. Simon Yu’s expertise in his field is nothing short of magnificent. His deep knowledge and experience overflow in every lesson, providing a unique perspective that goes beyond the conventional. Every explanation, every detail shared is presented in a way that cuts straight to the heart of the creative process, making seemingly complex concepts accessible and understandable for everyone. What truly impresses is not only Prof. Simon's technical prowess but his ability to convey his passion. Every spoken word, every demonstration reflects not only an exceptional director but a true lover of music and cinematography. His infectious enthusiasm has inspired us all to elevate our own artistic aspirations. He has taught us to see beyond the screen and listen beyond the notes, revealing the magic that occurs when both worlds collide harmoniously. Every class is an enriching experience, full of knowledge, inspiration, and the promise of continuous artistic growth. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to learn from such a passionate and exceptional teacher like Simon Yu.”
Antonio Félix
“Simon is exceptionally gifted as a teacher. He cares about the students and is commendable.”
Guy Guerra
Read more ↓
Gabrielle Goodman
Roberta Flack, Chaka Khan, Al Jarreau, Michael Bublé
Courses
Quoted
“My teaching philosophy is holistic: The students have to learn the song, but I’d like for them to be able to connect with the meaning of the song. What is the storyline of the song? How can you deliver the story and make someone feel something? It doesn’t mean anything if you sing a song and nobody feels anything, so they have to be able to connect with it.”
Students Say
“Gabrielle Goodman is the most knowledgeable, engaging, and inspirational course leader one can imagine.”
Suhail P. Shah
“Ms. Gabrielle is amazing! I took her when I first started. She is the best; very knowledgeable about her craft.”
Larrisha Reddic
“Professor Goodman is very inspiring. She is an amazing singer and teacher! I wish I could learn more from her in the future!”
Jenice Ong
“Professor Goodman is incredibly experienced, gifted and a fantastic educator. It’s an honor to learn from her as we take her course.”
Jordan Ballard
Read more ↓
Rodney Alejandro
Quincy Jones, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, The Script
Courses
Quoted
“What I like about working with Berklee Online students is that I get such a range of talent and experience in the industry. We get lots of international students who have vastly different experiences from what I got to experience in the music industry here in the US. … It reminds me of my eagerness to get into the industry, learn as much about it as possible, and it keeps me young today because I get to learn from them.”
Students Say
“Rodney is an excellent instructor. He’s patient and didactic, joining every song as if he were writing them, which is priceless. He always provides assertive feedback, which is important for me to grow. Thank you, Rodney, for being the most critical instructor in my journey at Berklee so far.”
Janaina Goulart
“Rodney is great. One of my favorite instructors I’ve had. He’s consistent, sticks to the schedule, and gives useful feedback. He’s also a wealth of knowledge on these topics and has great real-world experience to share.”
Paul Cresswell
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Amanda Davis
Tegan and Sara, Janelle Monáe, Nipsey Hussle, Jon Batiste
Courses
Quoted
“With this course, we really wanted to just give students what I didn’t have and what we’re still currently learning and building ourselves.”
Students Say
“Amanda and David [Carroll, co-teacher] were great and it is clear that they care about their students’ success!”
Emily Murray
Read more ↓
Get Access to Free Handbooks
Gain access to real course content from Berklee Online's 12-week, instructor-led online courses. From foundational concepts to advanced techniques, these free handbooks cover a variety of topics, all designed to provide you with marketable skills in music.
What Students Are Saying
Career Options in Piano and Keyboard
Explore the various career paths you can take in the field of Piano and Keyboard.
Explore Your Interests
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