Piano & Music Lessons in Santa Barbara

Classical – Jazz – Pop – Composition – Film & Video Game Music

Professional music education for children, teens and adults—taught by experienced musicians in a supportive, creative environment.

Private Piano Lessons

Classical music, pop, jazz, blues, film & video games music for students of all ages and levels
5 spots still available!

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Adult Beginner Classes

Learn your favorite Beatles or Beethoven Piece!
Next Weekly Group Class Starting:
Thursday October 15th, 2026 at 6:30pm

Composition & Musicianship Courses

Unleash your inner John Williams with an in-depth composition course for film & video Games!

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Southern California Piano Academy

Founded by internationally recognized conductor, composer, and pianist Emmanuel Fratianni and composer, pianist, and educator Laurie Robinson, Southern California Piano Academy offers high-quality music education in a supportive and inspiring environment for students of all ages and skill levels in Santa Barbara and Goleta.

Our contemporary and engaging approach brings together a diverse repertoire spanning Mozart to Taylor Swift, and Mario Bros. to Star Wars, alongside comprehensive programs in classical piano, jazz, blues, improvisation, music theory, songwriting, and composition. Students can also explore film scoring and video-game music, with instruction available through private and group lessons, both in person and online.

At every stage, our goal is to help students develop not only as pianists, but as confident, creative musicians, discovering the joy of music and a rewarding sense of accomplishment throughout their musical journey.

Contact us to schedule a complimentary introductory lesson!

email: info@SocalPianoAcademy.com

(805) 892-0842

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 12 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   John Vowels 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is an enthusiastic positive review for Southern California Piano Academy in general and specifically for my instructor, Emmanuel Fratianni. What started for me as an experimental trial has turned into 16 months (at time of posting) of a growing passion for piano and music. The private lessons are motivating, enjoyable, and informative. I can’t think of anyone better for me to work with- my piano playing has shown consistent progress while learning in a comfortable setting. Emmanuel’s knowledge and love of music is imparted to me through his enthusiasm for teaching. I highly recommend the Southern California Piano Academy to anyone who wants to play the piano.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kat 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve told my friends how Emmanuel is The Most Patient Teacher On The Planet. He always meets me right where I'm at and is tremendously encouraging and non-judgmental. His knowledge is impressively extensive; I especially appreciate whenever he shares tidbits about music history that lend a perspective which really motivates me. I've learned so much and am so grateful for his steady belief in me. I can't recommend a teacher more highly and could not imagine learning to play the piano as adult from anyone more accomplished, kind, and inspirational than Emmanuel.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Justin Meginnis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been attending Southern California Piano Academy for a year and a half, and it’s been a fantastic experience. Emmanuel, my teacher, is excellent—he’s patient, knowledgeable, and makes learning at my own pace both smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re a young beginner or an adult playing in your free time, this academy offers a welcoming and supportive environment for all skill levels. Highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Leah Edmonds 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m so happy I decided to start taking piano lessons here with Emmanuel. I came in with no experience and had no idea where to begin on my own. Over the last few months I feel like I’ve learned so much and am truly excited to keep coming back each week. His approach allows you to actually enjoy the process of learning because you get to dive right into songs that you already know and love while also studying the fundamentals + sight reading. Emmanuel is an excellent and very patient teacher. He gives just the right amount of material for you to work with each week so you don’t get overwhelmed. Getting to practice is now a highlight of my day. If you’re thinking about starting, I totally recommend starting here. :)
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   benjamin duron 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very proud of our daughter's progress.  Emmanuel's teaching method is stress free and very effective.  So fortunate to have found them.  100% recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Raymond Markow 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I loved my lessons at Southern California Piano Academy  . My teacher, Emmanuel is a very accomplished musician who arranges for orchestras, and I felt privileged to be taught by him . The lessons were taught in " bite size" pieces and I was never overwhelmed . In a matter of a few months I was competently reading music, and learning how to play my favorites such as Billy Joel.   I am in my 70s so I started off concerned  about my ability to undertake such a new endeavor   No worries, it was really easy and a very fun activity . I'll continue to play piano now that I have the basics under my belt . It's my pleasure to recommend Emmanuel to others who wish to learn piano!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Roy Hwang 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Laurie really understands how to teach and reach kids. She makes the lessons fun and something our six year old looks forward to every week
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   John Fry 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As an aspiring musician, both Laurie and Emmanuel have helped me in developing a sound and grounded approach to Jazz Piano.

Their methodology is one which allows the student to grow in a non stressful manner. I particularly like the feeling of ownership of applied information when it comes to their step by step introduction to new musical concepts and the technical aspects of correctly playing the instrument.

Apart from being patient, sincere, and genuine veterans of the teaching profession.....Both Laurie and Emmanuel Frattianni are "good folk" whose efforts go not unnoticed. As you can see, they come highly recommend in my book!
  
 
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   C. Han 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Extremely accomplished, knowledgeable, and caring teachers who have done amazing things with our kids!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Bradford 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Have played piano since childhood and taken classical and Jazz lessons intermittently for over 20 years.  Emmanuel is one of the most accomplished and knowledgeable teachers I have been fortunate to encounter.   I can  not recommend him and the group high enough. If you arrange for lessons,  you will not be disappointed.
  
 
  
  
 
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