Erik Biano
Founder/ Piano Teacher
Erik Biano (Erik Babaians) is a composer, songwriter, and piano instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience. Known for his creative and expressive musical style, Erik combines strong classical training with a passion for composition, storytelling, and artistic development.
Erik earned his bachelor’s degree in Classical Piano Performance and studied under respected instructors including Dr. Sarkis Baltaian, Dr. Milton Stern, and Dr. Penny Pan. His musical background spans classical piano performance, jazz, composition, orchestration, music theory, and contemporary music production.
As an educator, Erik is dedicated to helping students build strong technical foundations while developing creativity, confidence, and genuine enjoyment in music. His structured teaching approach includes piano performance, music theory, ear training, composition, and preparation for programs such as Certificate of Merit (CM), Royal Conservatory examinations, and AP Music Theory.
One of Erik’s greatest strengths as a teacher is the long-term mentorship he provides to his students and families. Many students study with him continuously for eight to ten years, progressing from beginner fundamentals to advanced levels such as CM Level 10 by the time they graduate high school. Through patient guidance and individualized instruction, Erik helps students grow not only into capable musicians, but also disciplined and confident individuals.
At Scaleful Music, Erik strives to create an inspiring and structured learning environment where students are encouraged to develop both technical excellence and a lifelong love of music.
Rhonda Babaians
Founder/ Piano Teacher
With over 20 years of teaching experience, Rhonda Babaians is dedicated to providing structured and inspiring piano education for students of all ages. She specializes in building strong musical foundations through technique development, music theory, ear training, sight reading, and performance preparation.
Rhonda studied classical piano performance and pedagogy at California State University, Northridge, under the mentorship of internationally respected pianist and educator Dr. Dmitry Rachmanov. Prior to that, she earned her Associate of Arts degree in Piano Performance at Pasadena City College under Dr. Cynthia B. Williams.
Since 2003, Rhonda has helped students develop confidence, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for music through individualized instruction tailored to each student’s learning style and goals. Her students participate in recitals, Certificate of Merit (CM) evaluations, and structured musical development programs designed to encourage both artistic growth and technical excellence.
One of the most meaningful aspects of Rhonda’s teaching career is the long-term relationships she builds with her students and families. Many students remain with Scaleful Music for eight to ten years or longer, allowing Rhonda to personally guide their musical and personal growth through every stage of development. This level of continuity and mentorship is a rare quality that reflects the supportive, dedicated, and deeply personalized environment at Scaleful Music.
At Scaleful Music, Rhonda believes music education should nurture not only strong musicianship, but also creativity, confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love of music.
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