Piano School Backed By Hans Zimmer Opens 1st MD Branch

BETHESDA, MD — A music school reimagining how students can learn to play the piano has opened its very first location in Maryland.

Backed by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, Payam Music will offer its courses from 8311 Wisconsin Ave. in Bethesda.

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The school was recently featured in a "60 Minutes" CBS segment that highlighted how founder Payam Khastkhodaei uses alphanumeric notation to help students pick up the instrument.

"They're not reading notes. They're not even sometimes looking at sheet music. We're playing a game. And it's fun for them," Khastkhodaei told the outlet. "What they're doing is building this coordination."

While students do eventually transition to learning sheet music, the alphanumeric method has seen nearly all pupils develop diploma-level skills within four years.

Khastkhodaei says students typically reach that milestone after more than 10 years of piano study.

"We're building a movement that challenges the traditional model of music education," he said in a release. "Our methodology creates an environment where learning feels like play, and success is a natural result of students falling in love with piano."

Courses are offered on a one-on-one basis, and range between $75 and $110. Virtual classes are offered only for students based within the U.S.

As it looks to a nationwide expansion, the California-based school has also acquired backing from entrepreneur Mark Cuban and Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, among several other figures.

Plans are in place for the Payam school to open a second location in the Potomac area.

Residents interested in learning more about the school can do so online.

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