Biography

Ms. Galina Kistanova has over forty years experience in piano instruction and professional performance. Originally from  the Republic of Kazakhstan, Galina’s musical talent was recognized at an early age, and she was enrolled at age seven in the renowned Special Music School for Gifted Children in Alma Ata, where years later she became an appointed instructor. She earned a Master of Fine Arts from the Conservatory in Novosibirsk, and has taught and performed in Germany, Austria, and Russia, including an appearance in the great concert hall of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic in Russia.

Since immigrating to the USA, Galina has taught piano and performed as an accompanist in Oregon and California. Her accomplishments include a gold medal performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2005 with the string group Siskiyou Violins, as well as many fine performances with choirs from Sacramento City College in West Sacramento, California.

Galina successfully teaches piano to children and adults, working to develop musical taste and a love of good music. Her approach to piano instruction cultivates in students the awareness of their quality of sound and phrasing. By teaching the student to read printed music as well as to play by ear, she promotes the student’s sense of melody and harmony. Her instruction is tailored to the needs of each individual student.