As the Coordinator of the Keyboard Division, I'm proud to share with you our piano program at PBA. Below are my personal summary and information about PBA piano program:
Palm Beach Atlantic University – Piano Program
College of the Arts | Department of Music | Preparatory Department | Division of Keyboard
The Piano Program at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) offers a comprehensive and Christ-centered education that develops pianists as artists, teachers, leaders, and disciples. Housed in the heart of the vibrant West Palm Beach arts scene, the Division of Keyboard provides rigorous training through degree programs, intentional initiatives, and exceptional faculty mentorship.
Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Keyboard Performance
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music, Keyboard Concentration with a minor
Minor in Music
Dr. Jackie Yong, Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Piano
Dr. Erikson Rojas, adjunct and staff pianist
Professor Loni White, adjunct and staff pianist
Professor Juan Tobon Rodriguez, adjunct and staff pianist (jazz)
Dr. Robert Sharon, staff pianist
(In memory) Professor Emeritus Marlene Woodward-Cooper
1. Personalized Faculty Mentorship and Discipleship
At Palm Beach Atlantic, every piano major receives the focused attention and mentorship they deserve. Our low student-to-faculty ratio ensures that each pianist is closely guided in their artistic journey with individualized instruction, detailed feedback, and personalized career coaching.
Unlike many institutions, all lessons and courses are taught by experienced faculty—not graduate assistants—reflecting our deep commitment to teaching excellence and meaningful student-faculty relationships. As a Christ-first institution, mentorship at PBA goes beyond the keyboard, offering students intentional spiritual growth and personal development through discipleship.
2. A Practical, Career-Focused Curriculum Built on Strong Foundations
Our curriculum is designed to build a solid musical foundation while preparing students for life beyond graduation. Every course is rooted in research-based pedagogy that emphasizes technical mastery, expressive musicianship, and teaching proficiency.
Students benefit from career-oriented studio classes and seminars that tackle essential topics like professional networking, musicians’ wellness, performance anxiety, and memorization strategies. Whether your goal is graduate study, concert performance, or private teaching, PBA equips you with the tools to succeed.
3. World-Class Facilities and Premier Instruments
Our pianists perform in an acoustically refined, state-of-the-art recital hall that rivals professional venues. With access to three world-class concert grands—including the Steinway Spirio D, a New York Steinway, and a Yamaha CFX—you’ll refine your artistry on the finest instruments available. At PBA, we believe that students develop best when inspired by exceptional sound and professional-level environments.
4. Abundant and Meaningful Performance Opportunities
Performance is at the heart of the PBA experience. Students regularly showcase their progress through studio classes, recital seminars, and College of the Arts concerts. Beyond campus, pianists gain real-world stage experience through community outreach concerts and regional competitions, helping build confidence, poise, and professional readiness.
5. Character and Leadership Development in a Faith-Driven Environment
We believe that great musicians are also great leaders. Our Student Leadership and Honors programs offer avenues for developing teaching, mentoring, and project management skills through curated leadership roles and service opportunities.
A hallmark of the PBA experience is our supportive and Christ-centered community, enriched through weekly chapel services, Bible studies, and fellowship gatherings. Here, students grow not only as musicians but also as well-rounded individuals committed to serving and leading with integrity.
PBA Annual Young Artist Piano Competition
Pianissimo Summer Intensive Program
Brainen-Endowed Piano Scholarship Competition
Piano Literature
Piano Pedagogy
Accompanying
Piano Studio Class
Recital Seminar
Victor Rosenbaum
Mikhail Shilyaev
Gila Goldstein
Rachel Naomi Kudo
Lindsay Garritson
Drs. Estibaliz Gastesi and Márcio Bezerra
Participations at the MTNA National Conference
Performances at PBA Arts Day and Student Chapels
Scholarships and awards opportunities for artistic and academic excellence
Gabriela Levine – University of Florida, M.Ed
Zach Drum – Chapel Worship Coordinator
Jonni Duan – University of Miami, M.M
Rebecca Osterhouse – Music Teacher, Palm Beach Christian Academy
Last update: August 2025