๐น Meet Teacher Salvatore
HAWKWON MUSIC FACULTY
Salvatore Zanelli is a classically trained pianist, composer, and arranger who brings both warmth and excellence to his teaching.
Salvatore began his formal training at the prestigious Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, and later earned his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from CUNY Hunter College, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Salvatore studied with Dr. Geoffrey Burleson, who also taught Michelle Kalisz, Sarah Sebaoun, and DaUn Chang.
Along the way, he received top honors including First Prize at the Steinway & Sons Piano Competition for Young Pianists. Further demonstrating his exceptional skills, he was accepted into graduate music programs at NYU and The New School and plans to attend The New School.
A thoughtful approach to teaching
What sets Salvatore apart as a teacher is his ability to meet each child where they are. For young students, he emphasizes clear technique, critical listening, musical imagination, and positive structure, making lessons engaging, encouraging, and age-appropriate.
His students learn to read music with confidence, build healthy technique, and develop a strong sense of rhythm, expression, and listening from the very beginning. These layered skills are essential for long-term student success.
In addition to classical piano, Salvatore brings a broad musical background that helps children stay curious and motivated. He has performed in contemporary styles including jazz, pop, and Latin music, and is fluent in both English and Spanish.
