Catherina Stols

Hello, I’m Catherina, an online piano teacher and music theory teacher with 16 years of teaching experience. I hold an accredited UNISA music teaching certificate, and I’m the founder of Exulto School of Music, an online music school that teaches students around the world. If you’ve been searching for online piano lessons or music theory lessons that actually help you understand what you’re playing, I’d love to help.

My teaching approach

I believe that learning to read sheet music is the key to playing the piano with confidence. That’s why my lessons start with music theory and sight-reading, then build practical piano skills on top of that foundation. Many students who learn by copying videos or playing by ear reach a point where they feel stuck. When you understand note names, rhythm, time signatures, key signatures and scales, you can learn new pieces on your own instead of relying on someone to show you every note.

I explain everything in clear, simple steps, and I never assume you already know the terms. Each lesson builds on the last, so you always know what you’re working towards and can see your progress from week to week.

Who I teach

I love teaching beginners of all ages, and I have a special interest in adult beginners. Many of my adult students always wanted to learn piano or music theory but never had the chance as children, or they had lessons years ago and want to start again. If that sounds like you, you’re very welcome here. There’s no such thing as being too old to learn, and you’ll never be made to feel silly for asking a question.

I also teach children, including home-educated students, and I’m happy to work with parents so they know how to support practice at home.

Music theory classes and exam preparation

I teach music theory from complete beginner level up to Grade 5. Over the years, I’ve prepared many students for music exams, and I know how to help students understand the work rather than just memorise answers. Even if you don’t plan to take exams, a solid grounding in music theory will make you a stronger, more confident musician on any instrument.

How my online lessons work

All lessons are live on Zoom, so you can learn from the comfort of your own home anywhere in the UK. Lessons are 30 minutes long, and you can choose between:

• Group music theory classes, grouped by level from Beginner to Grade 5, with a maximum of 30 students. Group classes are friendly, affordable and a lovely way to learn alongside others at the same stage.

Lessons are booked monthly, which keeps things simple and helps you build a steady weekly routine. You can also book more than one lesson a week if you’d like to progress faster.

Your first lesson is free

Every new student gets their first lesson free, so you can meet me, see how the lessons work, and decide whether they’re right for you with no pressure at all.

If you’d like to learn to read music, understand music theory properly, or finally start those piano lessons you’ve always wanted, send me a message. I’d be happy to answer your questions and help you find the right class.

Please refer to the website link to get a better understanding of how the bookings of the classes work, and also the price differences per class.