Payam Music, founded in Bothell, WA by self-taught pianist Payam Khastkhodaei, grew out of Payam’s unique approach to piano teaching,
shaped by his study of developmental psychology.

A New Philosophy

Recognizing that many students, including himself, often dreaded traditional piano lessons and the required practice, he developed a new teaching philosophy focused on making piano education more engaging and enjoyable through a revolutionary curriculum.

Payam Music Curriculum

Fastest Learning Method

This approach has delivered outstanding results: 96% of students reach diploma level in an average of 4-5 years, far exceeding the national average of 1-2% over 10-12 years. In 2024, Payam Music students excelled in the PTA Reflections competition, securing all top five spots in Washington and four out of fourteen nationally. Currently, Payam Music operates two locations serving over 300 students, with plans to expand nationally to make high-quality, revolutionary piano education available to more students.

Top School in the USA

Our students competed in the prestigious PTA Reflections competition, with over 300,000 participants, and achieved remarkable success. Payam Music students took all 5 of the top spots in Washington and 4 of the top 14 nationally.

See Success Stories

Our Happy Students

“Fantastic teachers, always keeps students challenged and engaged.

My son (10 years old) went from not being able to read music to nearly at diploma level in 1 year. I highly recommend Payam’s School of Music if you are interested in efficiently learning piano in fun and engaging ways.”

Jonathan Gaynor

“We feel very lucky to have Payam as our sons’ music teacher. He is an alchemist musician.

My kid won city and state level awards in jus’ 2 years with Payam’s coaching. Payam is a natural teacher that bonds with kids effortlessly and keeps the teaching environment so fun filled and engaging that my boys look forward to their next piano lesson. He is the best pianist I have directly witnessed to date and he effortlessly inspires his students to aim for excellence. Highly recommended!”

Pradeep Kumar

“Sending our son to learn from Payam is a life changing decision and a blessing!

Our little one who was very sad and wanted to quit when being kicked out by his previous piano teacher. He met Payam and started his new love with piano and composition. He was encouraged and really found his passion to play piano and compose. He finished his numerous music pieces in the past four years and represented Washington State won the third place in national PTSA Reflections last year. He is a very confident and diligent young man now. We really appreciate Payam Music school!”

Julia Ying

“My 10 year old had been going to Payam School of Music for about three years now and is thriving.

She also does musical composition and has won multiple awards at the school and district level. We’ve been thrilled with Payam’s unique teaching technique and approach, and the teachers are great as well! They are very knowledgable but also warm, approachable, and friendly which makes for a great experience for the kiddos! I highly recommend Payam and his team. 5 stars all the way!”

Nari Narvani

“The joy of practicing and playing piano has come back!

My teen son loves the great young adult instructors who “get” teens and the ability to choose which pieces he learns within his level of proficiency. Love the Payam School of Music!”

Neda Sedghi

“My daughter has been taking lessons with Payam school of music for a couple years and has reached concert level.

They have an amazing program where they’ve made their own curriculum that motivates students to practice and help develop a deeper passion for music. We’re happy to have our daughter here. It isn’t just a music school, the teachers are energetic, positive, and compassionate role models”

Lian Amd

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