About the Teacher
My name is Ed Varela. I have studied piano through formal private lessons from the time I was in the first grade. I grew up playing the piano at my church in Paterson, NJ from the time I was in the fifth grade. As a high school student, I won competitions and received high rating at festivals. I added to my music education in high school with choir, small vocal ensembles, handbell choir, and handbell ensemble. I studied piano with Dr. Pitagoras Goncalves at Pensacola Christian College, where I received my BA in Church Music in 2005. I then pursued a MA in Music while I studied with Dr. Cleusia Goncalves.
I have been teaching piano lessons, choir, and musicianship classes in Pensacola, FL since 2006. As a Christian aiming to reflect his Creator in all areas of my life, I desire to create what is true, beautiful, and good with my students. That's shows itself in in my approach of music literacy, theory, and performance.
I have experience teaching music on the college, secondary, and elementary levels. I am an active member of the Pensacola Music Teachers Association and have served in many roles. Currently, I serve as the chairman for the PMTA Sonata Contest. As a member of the Florida State Music Teachers Association, I serve as the president for District One and serve on the state executive board. I am also a member of the Florida Federation of Music Clubs.
Besides music, my other love in life is being a husband to my wife Miranda, and father to Olivia, Landon, and Lawson.
Testimonials
"Our son has been taking piano lessons from Mr. Varela for the past 11 year. Piano has been a valuable contributor to our son's growth and development, and we could not imagine anyone other than Mr. Varela as his teacher. He is professional, kind, patient, and encouraging. He takes an interest in his students' lives, and we just feel fortunate to have found him."
"Varela Music Studio is a great place to go learn how to play the piano. Edward Varela is a dedicated piano teacher. His patience and devotion keep our family coming back for the past seven years to present day. Our son loves his lessons and enjoys showing off his newfound skills to our family members."
"Mr. Edward Varela is a phenomenal piano teacher! His top-notch music program is rich in music theory, exposure to versatile music styles and numerous opportunities for musical experience in a variety of settings (i.e., class, recital, festivals, competitions). Mr. Varela is an inspirational teacher who makes learning fun with the ability to be firm and serious when needed. His expectations for his students to be their best are supported by his incredible patience, countless demonstrations, and an unwavering belief in his students’ ability that he or she can do it. Students walk away with a sense of confidence in themselves and their ability. Simply amazing! I feel so fortunate that my daughter had the opportunity to have him as her piano teacher for nine years. His comprehensive program is the “real deal” and creates a premiere, quality piano program worth emulation! I can’t recommend Mr. Varela and his music program enough!"