FRANCESCA HURST PIANO STUDIO
PROFESSIONAL ARTISTRY.
PERSONAL MENTORSHIP.
Helping young pianists develop technical mastery and artistic understanding to become expressive, empowered musicians.
THE ARTIST-MENTOR ADVANTAGE
Study with a Concert Pianist
As a concert pianist, I offer more than technical instruction. I mentor my students from the viewpoint of an experienced performer, sharing my expertise on solid preparation, memorization, interpretation and artistry, and how to handle performance anxiety.
Expert Technical Foundations
Backed by a doctorate and over a decade of university piano faculty experience, I bring the same world-class standards to my private studio that I use to train future music professionals, focusing on a healthy, tension-free technique that prevents injury and unlocks the student's full potential.
Inclusive Artistry
In lessons, we explore a vibrant, diverse world of music, balancing the great classical masterworks with the inspiring voices of contemporary and underrepresented composers.
THE STUDIO EXPERIENCE
PERSONALIZED
LESSONS
Weekly one-on-one lessons tailored to each student's level and goals.
PERFORMANCE
CLASSES
Regular group classes to build performing confidence and create community.
INTERNATIONAL
SUMMER STUDY​
An exclusive opportunity for advanced students to join me at the Orfeo Music Festival in the Italian Alps for intensive study and performance.
RECITALS AND
FESTIVALS​
Regular opportunities to perform in professional venues and local events.
HEALTHY
TECHNIQUE
Structured regimen focused on building healthy playing habits and avoiding injury.
COLLEGE AND
COMPETITION PREP
Comprehensive preparation for competitions, auditions, and arts supplement portfolios.
STUDENT AND PARENT REFLECTIONS
CAROLYN C., PARENT
The recital had beautiful playing. I remember my own childhood recitals, which were just about playing the notes, not about making music. This was a real concert!
EMILY S., STUDENT
...tailors the way she teaches to best fit the student so they can thrive. She is kind, caring, and extremely knowledgeable.
MAX H., STUDENT
Dr. Hurst gave me the tools I need to continue my piano journey while I'm away at college, and I will be always thankful for her lessons.
STUDENT SUCCESSES
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Top ranking in the Northern Virginia Senior Regional Orchestra auditions
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Successful admission to the Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at The Catholic University of America
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Finalist, International Young Artist Piano Competition (Washington, D.C.)
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Selection for master classes with acclaimed pedagogues, including Ivo Kaltchev and Nancy Breth
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Consistent "Superior" ratings in regional festivals and evaluations
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Performed in Lang Lang’s 101 Pianists at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
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Students have continued their education at prestigious institutions including the University of Virginia, Duke University, James Madison University, Virginia Tech, and George Mason University.
STUDIO PICTURES
 Studio recital Fairfax, VA |  Group Class duets |  Studio Class |
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 Winter Recital Ward Hall, Catholic U. |  Duet Coaching Storybox Photography |
ABOUT
Dr. Francesca Hurst is a concert pianist and educator dedicated to guiding serious students toward artistic excellence. Based in Annandale, Virginia, with over 20 years experience, she provides private piano lessons that focus on classical repertoire, technique, theory, and expressive performance. Currently on the piano faculty at The Catholic University of America, where she teaches private piano and directs the Piano Pedagogy curriculum, Dr. Hurst brings her university-level knowledge to the private studio. She is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) and is frequently invited to give lectures, workshops, and master classes. Her students perform in local festivals and competitions, and advanced students have the opportunity to attend the Orfeo Music Festival in Italy where she is on the faculty.
I treat every student as a unique artist, blending high-level classical standards with a modern, individualized learning style. Serious and motivated students learn more than just the notes, and their playing is thoughtful, expressive, and musically confident. My ultimate goal is to empower students with the tools and knowledge to learn a piece, to practice effectively, and perform with poise and musicality.
THE STUDIO
LOCATION
Located inside the beltway in Annandale, VA, close to 395 and 495.
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WHAT'S INCLUDED
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Instruction and mentorship from a performing concert pianist
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32 private piano lessons a year
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Multiple group classes
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2 annual studio recitals
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Faculty-led path to summer study and performance at the Orfeo Music Festival in Italy
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Curated local performance and competition opportunities
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Morning, afternoon, evening availability
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Online student portal
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Online lessons also available.
Tuition/Policy
CLICK HERE for the 2025-2026 studio policy and tuition rates.
2025-2026 Calendar
CLICK HERE for the 2025-2026 calendar.
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2026-2027 Info Coming Soon!
Admission to the studio is by audition/interview only.
LOCATION
Located in the heart of Annandale, minutes from 495 and 395.
Please contact for exact address.
STUDIO FAQ
Q: Where in Northern Virginia is your studio located?
A: The studio is located in Annandale, VA, inside the beltway close to 395 and 495. The location is convenient for families in Fairfax, Falls Church, Arlington, Springfield, Alexandria, McLean, and Burke.
Q: Do you offer advanced piano lessons?
A: Yes, I teach all levels of classical piano, from beginning to advanced.
Q: What ages do you teach?
A: I teach children from elementary through high school age and I also teach adults.
Q: What are your qualifications?
A: I have a doctorate in piano performance, and am on the piano faculty at The Catholic University of America, where I also teach piano pedagogy (how to teach piano). I have been teaching piano at the university level and privately for 20 years. I am also a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM).
Q: Do your students participate in recitals, festivals, and competitions?
A: The studio has two annual recitals, plus students may participate in a variety of competitive and non-competitive events throughout the year sponsored by local music teachers associations.
Q: Tell me more about the Orfeo Music Festival in Italy.
A: The Orfeo Music Festival is a summer classical music concert series and an intensive study program in the Italian Alps for children through adults. As a faculty member at the festival, I personally mentor my students through the audition process. Applications are due in December for the following summer. We generally begin preparing the required audition recordings, typically two contrasting works, well in advance. For younger students (under 14), the festival requires a parent or guardian to accompany them.
Q: Do you have a grand piano in the studio?
A: I have a grand piano and an upright piano which are both tuned regularly. Lessons are taught at the grand piano.
Q: Do you teach music theory?
A: All students study music theory in addition to technique and repertoire. It is part of the regular curriculum.