Piano and singing lessons · Craig Ralston
Piano and singing lessons in Utrecht
Warm, personalized music lessons from a doctoral-level music educator. For beginners, returning students, and serious musicians ready to grow.
Free first lesson, no obligation
Lessons of 45 or 60 minutes
Home studio in Utrecht, with a grand piano
All levels, all ages
Doctor of Musical ArtsFormer university professorInternational competition judgeLondon Royal Schools of Music30+ years on stage
My philosophy is simple: lessons should be encouraging, personal and enjoyable. I will help you build strong fundamentals while playing or singing the piece that made you fall in love with music in the first place. Let's create something beautiful together.
What can you learn at Ralston Music?
Piano lessons
Classical, pop or jazz, for beginners and advanced players. From your first chord to exams and auditions.
piano lessons in Utrecht →Singing lessons
Singing technique, repertoire and performance, from your first lesson to audition-ready. Including singing for the actor.
singing lessons in Utrecht →Music theory & composition
From reading music to harmony and writing your own pieces, taught by a composer with a doctorate in the subject.
music theory and composition lessons in Utrecht →Online lessons
The same hour of undivided attention, at your own instrument, wherever you are. Any time zone, same rates.
online piano and singing lessons →
Who is Craig Ralston?
Craig grew up in Southern Africa, studied piano and composition through to a doctorate, and built a career across three continents: concert pianist, university lecturer, choral conductor, and founder of his own music school. He now lives in Utrecht and judges international music competitions. What that means for you: a teacher who hears exactly what's happening in your playing or your singing, and knows how to take it further.
Read Craig's full story →How much do piano lessons cost in Utrecht?
At Ralston Music a 45-minute lesson is €40 and a 60-minute lesson is €50, and the first lesson is free. For students aged 21 and over, 21% VAT is added: €48.40 and €60.50.
The free first lesson exists precisely so you can hear what that is like before paying anything.
See the full price breakdown for singing, theory and online lessons too.
What language are the lessons in?
Lessons are given in English, and Craig is learning Dutch. For Dutch students that turns out to be no obstacle at all.
Most musical terms are English or Italian anyway, and after one lesson nobody thinks about it.
Where is the studio?
In Craig's home studio on Herculeslaan in Utrecht Oost, right by Galgenwaard, at an acoustic grand piano.
Students come from across Utrecht: Oost and Wilhelminapark are around the corner, the centre and Lunetten are about fifteen minutes by bike, and Utrecht Science Park is a short ride or bus away.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an English-speaking piano teacher in Utrecht?
Yes. Craig Ralston of Ralston Music teaches piano and singing in Utrecht, in English, and is learning Dutch himself. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts and previously taught at university level.
How much do piano lessons cost in Utrecht?
On average, piano lessons in Utrecht cost around €39 per hour. At Ralston Music a 45-minute lesson costs €40 and a 60-minute lesson €50, and the first lesson is free. For students aged 21 and over, 21% VAT is added: €48.40 and €60.50.
Can adults learn the piano from scratch?
Yes. Craig teaches students of all ages, and many of his students are adults. Adults often progress faster than they expect, because they know why they signed up.
Do I need a piano at home?
You need an instrument to practise on. A good digital piano with weighted keys is fine to start with; Craig is happy to advise before you buy anything.
How do I book the free first lesson?
Send Craig a WhatsApp message or book directly online via the contact page. The first 30-minute lesson is free, with no obligation.
What students say
Dr. Ralston is an incredibly patient and encouraging teacher who emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation in music theory. Because of his instruction, I can now sit down and learn new pieces on my own with confidence.
Craig saw potential in me long before I could see it in myself. His patience, encouragement, and ability to tailor each lesson to my individual strengths helped me discover a voice that is uniquely my own.
A multifaceted musician, he thoroughly knows his subject area and inspires students to set new goals and reach higher levels of performing and musicianship. He has an excellent personality and makes learning fun and engaging.
The first lesson is free
Come by, play or sing something you love, and tell me where you'd like to go. Then decide if it's the right fit for you.
or use the contact form · Replies usually within a day.