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La Maison School of Music Launches as New Home For Music Education on Upper East Side
Historic Upper East Side Townhouse Transformed into Peaceful Music School
Music education on Manhattan's Upper East Side is getting a fresh new voice with the launch of La Maison School of Music, opening its doors this fall. Founded by accomplished pianist and music educator Héloïse Pieaud, this premier and innovative music school will provide exceptional music education – centered on personal development and well-being, in an inspiring environment.
La Maison School of Music represents a new approach to music education, drawing inspiration from the Montessori School philosophy by placing students at the heart of their musical journey. La Maison’s teaching methodology, designed by Héloïse, combines elements from prestigious traditions in Paris, Russia, and New York, with a special emphasis on making music discovery and education both fun and accessible.
“La Maison addresses the significant gap in after-school music programs, which rely on outdated methods and limited resources,” says founder Héloïse Pieaud. “Our approach is about more than precision and perfection, it explores why music moves and inspires us, helping students of all ages to not only play music but to develop an emotional understanding of the composition and to experience the joy of performance.”
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The school offers programs for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced students, with specialized curriculum designed for both children and adults. By varying its approaches, La Maison will keep students engaged while fostering a genuine love for music that extends beyond technical proficiency.
The school offers three pathways to grow through music, designed to fit every age level.
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- For ages 4-6: “Soon to Sound” - A two-year group program designed to build focus, musical awareness, and creativity through movement and listening.
- For ages 6-15: “Made to Play” – A six-year program combining group classes and private lessons, guiding young musicians through a rich and evolving curriculum.
- For all ages: “Never Too Late” - A two-year private lesson program for teens and adults, paired with a custom-designed learning book created by La Maison for adult learners.
Located in an elegantly renovated townhouse, the school provides a warm and inspiring environment that enhances the learning experience. The historic building dates back to 1899. O, and once home to textile artists DD and Leslie Tillett, (whose designs were worn by Greta Garbo and Jackie Kennedy, i). It was redesigned in 2008 by the legendary architect Toshiko Mori, and reopened in 2011 as a gallery known as The Waterfall Mansion. The new school has kept the charming two-story interior waterfall as part of its lobby, with reimagined studio rooms for practice and performance upstairs.
In homage to the building’s history and its refined setting, Héloïse Pieaud sought to infuse the space with a strong artistic dimension by exhibiting artworks throughout the school, fostering a dialogue between music and visual art. Across its floors, the home features designs by New York-based designer The interiors include designs by Crina Arghirescu Rogard, and a rotating selection of artworks on loan from Paris and New York City-based gallery’s Amelie du Chalard, bringing vibrancy to the practice rooms.
Classes begin in September 2025, and registration is open now with limited availability. Parents and prospective students are encouraged to schedule a visit to tour La Maison and meet the educators.
La Maison School of Music
170 East 80th Street
New York, NY 10075
For more information:
Steinway is an official education partner of La Maison School of Music
About Amelie du Chalard
Amelie du Chalard is a contemporary art gallery with locations in Paris and New York, known for presenting established and emerging artists across diverse media. Designed to feel like a collector’s home, its spaces offer an immersive, residential experience alongside tailored services such as private viewings and art advising. Founded in 2015 by French entrepreneur Amélie du Chalard, the gallery collaborates with brands like Chanel, Chloé and Dior, as well as leading designers including Ashe Leandro, Giancarlo Valle and Pierre Yovanovitch, and curates corporate collections and artist residencies globally.
