“Stepping into Penny’s gorgeous, timeless and eclectic home studio is like stepping back in time in the most lovely way. Her twin baby grand pianos, placed side by side in the front room of her colonial home, set the stage for Penny’s creative teaching style. She tailors lessons to the child’s styles and interests, which makes the student feel inspired and valued. My son has thrived within the studio culture where students of all ages gather to celebrate holidays and milestones together. One aspect that is most unique and cherished is Penny’s annual outreach effort, which has touched the lives of people all over the world, both near and far.”

“I took piano lessons as a child for several years but then did not touch a piano for almost 50 years. Thanks to her creativity, patience, flexibility, musical expertise, and insights into people, Penny re-introduced me to the magical world of music. For this, I will be forever grateful.”

“An important aspect that Mrs. Lazarus includes in her teaching, is examining piano pieces based on their written forms and historical backgrounds in order to interpret them in new ways. She gives me the freedom to experiment with different dynamics on each score, enabling me to produce sounds from the piano I never imagined possible.”

“I just wanted to tell you that picking Alec up from his lesson yesterday was fun... I have NEVER seen him so enthusiastic about a piano lesson... thanks for a great start to the piano year!”

“Penny is truly a great teacher. She relates to her students in a way that builds their self-confidence and makes them feel good about their musical accomplishments. My children love going to their piano lessons and are always happy to practice at home too.”

“Thank you, Teacher Penny, for a great year! I have learned a lot from you! You’re the best teacher ever!”

“I have two very different children who have both flourished with Penny. She really knows just how to reach each child, finding ways to motivate them through the rough spots and cultivating in them what I hope will be a lifelong love of the piano.”

“I can’t wait to tell you all about college when I come home from St. Andrews for a break! I’m so glad you and piano have become such a huge part of my life, something that will be with me always. Thank you so much for the Beethoven Bagatelles! I’ll miss you, have such an amazing year, and good luck with the new iPad music apps!”

“About 4 years ago, my son Sam told me he no longer wanted to take piano lessons. Shortly after that, I received a call from teacher Penny that she had an opening. Long story short, Sam met with Penny and the rest is history! Sometimes it only happens once in a lifetime that a special teacher comes into your child’s life. Penny not only loves teaching the piano, but she also loves the kids! Her heart expands with the glory of the potential she sees in each child and she has a magnificent way of connecting piano lessons with the many projects she leads to benefit those in need. Penny is truly a blessing and a wonder!”

“Penny is a gifted and creative teacher. My son has excelled since joining her studio!”

“Penny is a wonderful piano teacher! I’ve learned so much from her and she makes lessons fun.”

“There is no way I can tell you how beautiful your magazine article is! First, congratulations! What a testimony to all your creativity, caring, and hard work you always exhibit at every lesson and beyond. There was no way the editor(s) of the magazine could choose not to publish your piece, it was so beautifully written! One wonders how many other music teachers will be inspired to carry out some similar, worthy projects in their studios and touch others in near and faraway places.I loved the way you told about themes and some of the chosen music for those themes.I teared up myself when I saw and read how Alban Dhamo was moved to tears.I loved those two pictures you put together. The way you ended, telling how Theo was playing “Won’t You be my Neighbor? at that particular time.....well, I agree with the old Yiddish saying you shared. We don’t know the deep and complete mystery of how God is knitting us all together, but sometimes a beautiful hint escapes from hidden mysteries, and your work with the children and your article is a beautiful example for us to experience wonder, be in awe, and be thankful! Today we were at the Dalton House for our yearly big family Christmas gathering. While we were all in the dining room, Harry played some of his memorized pieces ( Riding the Rapids, Dragonfly, and his new Christmas piece from the Snowman movie). I was surprised...Harry wasn’t asked to play....he just went to the piano and played away.....Harry does not look for attention.....he was just happy to be able to play the pieces. The boy and girl cousins in their 20’s loved listening to the Christmas piece. I think it brought back memories of when they were younger. Everyone at our long table got to hear about Penny Lazarus, and about some of the work, she is doing with her students....some of the work mentioned in your article! Dean also took a turn at the piano after Harry got up. He also loved playing for us.”

“Sam is looking forward to starting piano lessons with you! Very impressive that you are drawing students from so many different communities. Did you ever imagine that when you started? The lesson here is that right-minded people are willing to travel for excellence.”