History
Erin and I met years ago at a piano studio Christmas party because of our love for the art of the piano and its continuation. As a husband and wife team, it is our goal to educate piano students of all backgrounds in the Grand Manner style.
For well over 150 years, the Grand Manner style of pianism has embodied projection, color, and artistic nuance. In recent years, this valuable tradition has slowly faded away due to globalization and a less effective approach with recording in mind more than live audiences. Grand Manner Piano Society exists to teach the traditional grand manner approach, and preserve an over century-old piano tradition through the finest instruction, masterclasses, and performances.
Students who belong to Grand Manner Piano Society are exposed to a traditional learning approach. Ear training , theory, sight reading, and technique are emphasized as much as learning appropriate repertoire. Appropriate musical context and history is introduced for every piece, just as it was in conservatories during the Golden Age. Piano ensembles, insightful masterclasses, and brilliant recitals are all included for Grand Manner Piano Society students.
Staff
President
Joshua Kludy
For over a decade, I have taught students of all levels the traditional Grand Manner style of playing. My mentors and coaching include many illustrious artist teachers such as Ruth Yandell, Nelita True, Robert Hamilton.
As a performer, I have worked with multiple charities and organizations to bring classical music into the post-modern world through schools, non-profits, and more. I have been noted by many distinguished pianists, such as Paul Harvey Jr., for possessing a golden singing tone with a wide range of colors.
The traditional Grand Manner style emphasizes form, fluidity of motion, and the principle of a Golden singing tone.
Education
Arizona State University
Bachelors of Music (Piano Performance) 2019
Activities & Affiliations
Private Independent Piano Sales Consultant
Director of Music and Liturgy Coordinator at Church of the Ascension (A Roman Catholic Parish)
Personal Life
Avid husband and family man
Cycling enthusiast!
Co-President/Pedagogy Director
Erin Kludy
For over 5 years, I have taught students of all levels the Grand Manner method of piano technique. As a trained concert pianist, my passion is for piano students to find their correct form, fluidity of movement, and a Golden Sound through my expertise in the Grand Manner technique.
From touring coast to coast across the United States as a competition winner and performer, I have been noted by many leaders in the piano world, such as acclaimed pianist Robert Hamilton for “capturing the spirit of Beethoven” in my performance of the Waldstein sonata.
Mentors
Juliana Kraver
Ruth Yandell
Charles Szczepanek
Robert Hamilton
Activities & Affiliations
Author of the Grand Manner Piano Society curriculum
Personal Life
Avid recreational ballet dancer and health + fitness specialist