“As a little girl growing up in the Ukraine I always wanted to play the piano like my dad, who was a self-taught musician and could not read notation. My classical piano classes turned out to be very boring and I never learned to play the way I wished to.  Early in life I decided that the world was divided into musicians and non-musicians. After all, real musicians play like gods without having teachers at all.

When I first read about Doc’s approach to teaching piano, I was very skeptical. It’s not that I did not believe what I read in Doc’s ad. I was in disbelief that I would be able to play one day myself. I was very fearful that I would be an “exception” to this method and my childhood beliefs would prove real. I was afraid to come to Doc’s door…

Doc is a very empathic, caring and PATIENT human being with a compassionate understanding of “suffering” of others. You will meet a person who lives life from a place of a deep-seated peace. He teaches you that your mistakes and failures are the seeds of your creative opportunities…If you stick with his method for a couple of months, the breakthroughs are sure to come. As musical epiphanies erupt, they make their way into the other aspects of your life. I am very thankful for coming across Doc on my life’s path. He is not only an amazing teacher and human being with an inner smile of empathic humor, but also a gifted musician, who takes my breath away every time he touches the keys. There is so much freshness, lightness and “one-of-a-kindness” in his own musical expression.”

— Olga Cheek, 44

“Doc is the most influential person in my life.  Words are not adequate in expressing the impact he has made on my life.  He is an extraordinary music teacher.  I did not really know anything about music when I began.  Now, I am a well-educated evolving musician.  I did not know I had all this music within me, and I have been amazed with my growth over the past five years.  I learned I am capable of developing skills through dedicated focused practice.  The daily practice skills and focused awareness, Doc guided me toward, are applicable to all parts of my life.  To him I am forever grateful.”

— Diego Hall, 23
Musician & Hip Hop Artist
Sonoma State M.A. Student

“Doc’s unique creative approach of teaching piano, coupled with his conscious insight for the feel and spirit of music has changed my musical life. Doc has a rare skill for identifying the musical gifts hidden in all of us. He works with incredible patience and clarity, assisting us in developing our gifts in perfect time.

My experience of studying with Doc: a wonderful integration of musical depth and creative sourcing; a truly soulful approach to teaching and counseling the student toward becoming the instrument of delivery, while imprinting both deep foundational and advanced music theory as well as extremely vital relaxed piano technique.”

—Dave Rogers
Mechanical engineer/former Air Force Pilot

“I have been studying with Doc Collins for about four years. This has been and continues to be a truly inspired journey. His un- method of teaching piano is so unique it really offers each student a multiple of skills’ and foundational theory to confidently and creatively employ. In addition he has opened my eyes and hands to a clear view of the keyboard, which I now see as a metaphor for awakening in life.  Since I’ve been studying with Doc, it’s like a Bob Marley lyric: ‘I can see clearly now the rain is gone,’ in deep gratitude.”

— Sharon Wunderlich
Holistic health professional

“I recommend Doc Collins.  I came to Doc as an adult beginner. Doc is a true teacher, not just a piano instructor – there is a big difference. Through a merging of practice and play, I have developed style and musical chops that continue to expand. More important I keep finding joy in music.

Whether you are a performer or a home musician, Doc can help you to expand your technique and knowledge if you’re willing to put in the time.”

— Jim Shelton
Professional artist (painter), musician,
Small business owner