High School

Pia Siegwart

Pia Siegwart, a native from Switzerland, holds an equivalent of a master's degree in piano and piano pedagogy from the conservatory in Luzern, Switzerland. For over 28 years, she has taught individual and group piano lessons to children and adults at several music schools in Switzerland. Since 2002 she maintains a private studio at her home in Berkeley and teaches at CCMC, Berkeley. She enjoys teaching students of all ages and backgrounds.

Anna Poklewski Academy of Music Dalcroze Eurhythmic Class

The activities in this class train the body to solve musical problems leading to the improvement of the student’s performance and retention of musical fundamentals. In this class, music directs students. They have to respond quickly to what they hear and express them through body movements. This will greatly increase listening and coordination skills, which are vital in the mastery of any musical instrument. Music theory is also integrated in this class together with solfege and improvisation.

John Duykers

John Duykers has appeared with many of the leading opera companies of the world.

He is particularly well known for his performances of contemporary music, having sung in 80 contemporary operas including 47 world premieres. In 1987 he created the role of Mao Tse Tung in John Adams' Nixon in China which was premiered with Houston Grand Opera and he has performed throughout the world. Nixon in China was telecast over PBS' "Great Performances" winning an Emmy and recorded for Nonesuch, winning a Grammy.