Interview by New York Music State Music Teacher Association

Akina teaches applied piano, keyboard harmony, piano pedagogy, and piano literature classes at the College of Saint Rose (Albany, NY), piano lessons at Rensslaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, NY) as well as SUNY Schenectady Community College (Schenectady, NY). She also maintains her active private piano studio for pre-college students. Some of her students have successfully given recitals, accepted to collges as a music major, and awarded prizes in national and international competitions. She is proud that all of her students work very hard and love playing piano, striving to grow as a better musician. As an active performer, she has collaborated with all kinds of instrumentalists as well as singers. To inquire about joining her studio or collaboration, please contact via Contact page.

Teaching

Testimonials:

“Working with Akina was one of my most valuable experiences as a student. Her technical expertise combined with her kindness and encouragement helped me grow so much as a musician. I never felt nervous or dreaded going into a lesson and I always left with newfound knowledge and motivation.”

– Joseph Franco, Certified Music Teacher of Florida:
former piano student at the University of Miami

“Miss Akina helped me become a better pianist not only in playing the correct notes, but in technique and interpretation. In studying with her, I felt that I grew exponentially as a musician and obtained the patience and discipline needed to excel at this art. What a phenomenal experience!”  

– Nicole Steinberg, Soprano: former piano student at the University of Miami

Collaborative Piano 

Testimonials:

“Akina and I played together for almost 3 years when we were both doctoral student in University of Miami. Akina is a wonderful musician to play with and she is open-minded in accepting different interpretations and thoughts. We did a lot cello repertoire, including concertos, sonatas and modern pieces. I really miss those moments when we discussed music and made music together.”

– Chia-Li Yu D.M.A, Associate Professor of Quanzhou Normal University

“Dr. Akina Yura is a truly accomplished collaborative pianist. Her musicality, her intelligence, her sensitivity, her patience, and her sheer talent make her a joy to work with. I always felt more confident about an upcoming performance knowing that she was going to be on stage with me.” 

– Laurie Staring, Soprano: D.M. Candidate, Indiana University 

“Akina Yura is a dedicated, hardworking and artful pianist. She comes to rehearsals prepared to get to the heart of the music. Her skill, talent, and professional experience all attribute to her success as a performer, collaborator, and teacher. Akina is a pleasure to work with and will curate a balance of friendship and professionalism throughout the musical process.”       

– Cathryn Lovett, Soprano: B.M. Candidate, University of Miami