Tom is by far the BEST piano teacher I’ve ever had. I have two degrees in music, and Tom is SO much better than any of the university professors I ever studied with. I’ve also recommended beginners and children to him with excellent results. He is patient, spends time with you, his rates are very reasonable, and best of all: you actually get RESULTS. My knowledge of piano has grown exponentially. Give him a try while he has openings or get on his wait list – you won’t be sorry!
Lisa Elliott, soprano & conductor – Las Vegas, Nevada
Thank you Lisa, very kind of you. I’m very pleased to have have been a part of your musical development and glad you feel that way. I hope you enjoy your new Steinway A3, congrats.
I am a professional drummer here in Sarasota with a degree from Berklee College of Music. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Tom for the last few years playing shows. I can’t say enough good things about him. He is rock solid in any style of music he plays and is the best reading musician I have ever worked with. He is a top notch musician, and we are lucky to have him in this area. If you are looking for a great piano teacher, I think you would be hard pressed to find anyone better.
Rich Mac Donald – Sarasota, Florida
Thank you, Rich. Praise from peers is the best kind, much appreciated. The pleasure is mine to work with a top professional such as yourself.
I myself am a professional pianist working in Asia as a full time performer and instructor. I cannot speak highly enough of Tom’s musical sensibilities and guidance in regards to the piano. A lot of my current technical and musical success is a direct result of a short but intense and focused time I spent with him in the summer of 2011. In just over two months of informal lessons he helped me revolutionize my approach to practice and the sound I was achieving at the instrument. I left our time together practicing more efficiently and being able to perform difficult pieces on stage comfortably and with confidence. I felt then, and still do today, that I was given a tremendous gift that must be passed on to others.
Time spent at the piano with Mr. Thomas Pizzi is extremely worthwhile and its value reaches far beyond the instrument. Do yourself (or someone you know) a favor and sign up for lessons with Tom. You will leave each session a much better pianist – and maybe even a better person.
Andrew Page – Taipei, Taiwan
Andrew, that’s quite a testimonial, thank you so much! It’s an honor for me, coming from a pianist of your caliber. There’s no greater reward for a teacher than to see successful results, and I’m proud to have had a small part in your career. By the way, I learned a lot from you too.
Mr. Page has a degree in Jazz piano from the University of North Texas and a Master’s in classical piano from Queens College of New York. He is a brilliant performer and the most creative musician I’ve ever met.
Our intimate wedding was made beautiful and simply elegant in large part to Thomas Pizzi. Towards our special day, Tom designed a perfect fit for us, beginning with a site visit on his own accord. He imagined an ideally positioned piano-bass combination that actually enhanced the ambience of the room. His play itself was spectacular on a number of fronts: he had previously and remarkably demonstrated the entrance song – a classical piece – on first try, having never played it before (owing to his exceptional training and musical ear). Our wedding song that followed was spot on, and kicked off a jazz-inspired mix that was lush, silky, and well-timed. We presented a special musical request or two, and they were fielded easily.Tom’s professionalism, deep experience, and affinity and respect for music were clearly evident throughout the engagement. Much can go wrong with any wedding, but we didn’t have to worry at all about this critical element. I would highly recommend Tom for your wedding or other important event that you are planning.Mindy and Jim Capawana – St. Petersburg FL
Thank you Jim and Mindy. It was our pleasure and a beautiful occasion.

When I decided to learn to play the piano at age 66, I never imagined I would find a teacher of Tom’s quality. I wanted to take lessons from him because I was so impressed when I heard him play jazz in Sarasota. Having an experienced performer as a teacher is wonderful; I know I’m getting real-world advice.
Tom loves to teach, and puts a lot of focus and energy into it. I feel that he is very invested in me reaching my goals.
Before I met Tom, my understanding of some important concepts was vague and I wasted time wondering how to do things. Now, I know exactly what I am aiming for with a given piece or technique. Tom gives me precise instructions on how to practice, so my time at the piano is efficient and I move forward.
I also enjoy the way I am learning about music itself, for example when he helps me put a piece together from a lead sheet.
After 10 months of studying with Tom, my husband says it doesn’t sound like I am practicing, it just sounds like I am playing. I have played some of my favorite songs for friends and acquaintances with success, and without much stage fright! And I am starting to learn some improvisation, which I think is amazing. I love my lessons and my time at the piano, and I would wholeheartedly recommend Tom as a teacher to anyone.
Claire Hatch, Longboat Key, Florida
Claire, thank you for such a nice endorsement. I’m pleased you’re enjoying your lessons, and it’s great to watch your progress.
Tom is an excellent piano teacher. He’s incredibly patient, especially with kids. He knows how to create a comfortable and positive space for learning. My child has thrived under his guidance.
Tom always goes above and beyond. He teaches important music/piano fundamentals and principles that many other teachers might overlook. He takes the time to understand each student’s individual needs and adjusts lessons to help them grow.
Tom is both a talented musician and an excellent teacher. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a piano teacher who is patient, knowledgeable, and great with kids!
Joanne, Florida