Meet Our Teacher
Susanna Kyaruns – Principal Instructor
- Pianist
- Vocalist
- Music Educator
Susanna Kyaruns is an accomplished pianist, vocalist, and music educator with an extensive international career as a performer and teacher. Born in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, she began performing at the age of four, debuting in the award-winning film Son, which received the Golden Elephant Award in Middle Asia and India.
At a young age, Susanna was accepted into the prestigious Specialized Music School under the Moscow Conservatory, where she dedicated thirteen years to intensive studies in piano performance, music theory, and music literature. During this time, she excelled in piano competitions and concert performances, while also cultivating a passion for dance, performing ballroom, hip-hop, and traditional Turkmen and Indian dances on major stages in Ashgabat for distinguished audiences, including government officials and international diplomats.
She also made history as the first female leader of her high school’s comedy theater team, competing successfully against college-level teams for six years.
In 2003, Susanna relocated to Armenia, where she continued her music career as both a performer and vocalist. She participated in concerts, collaborated with renowned Armenian artists, and competed in The Voice of Armenia. Her work as a singer-songwriter earned recognition in local media, including a feature article highlighting her first album and artistic journey.
In 2005, Susanna moved to Albany, New York, and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Music Education, graduating cum laude from The College of Saint Rose. During her studies, she performed extensively as a soloist and accompanist for the Masterworks Chorale, Chamber Choir, and Women’s Choir. She earned multiple scholarships, including the prestigious J. Robert Sheehan Music Scholar Award. Concurrently, she began her teaching career at Hilton Music Center in Albany, where she built a thriving piano and vocal studio of 56 students, preparing them for competitions, recitals, and talent showcases with a personalized and theory-based approach influenced by her multicultural musical background.
In 2016, Susanna expanded her teaching career to Los Angeles, working with Hollywood Arts Academy and Pasadena Piano Academy. She became a member of the California Certificate of Merit (CM) program, guiding students to high achievement in examinations and performances, with many selected for Honors Convocations at Steinway & Sons in Beverly Hills. Her teaching career in California further enriched her pedagogical methods, while her performance career included recording three original songs for the Bravo TV series Vanderpump Rules, collaborating with renowned musicians and composers.
Returning to Albany in 2018, Susanna released her second album, Reborn, as a singer-songwriter and continued to expand her private teaching studio. She became an active member of the New York State Music Teachers Association, where she has served as a judge for local competitions and evaluations. Under her mentorship, numerous students have earned top scores and were invited to perform at Honors Recitals and regional festivals.
In 2025, Susanna founded the Susanna Kyaruns Piano Lab Academy, a school dedicated to providing students with comprehensive musical training and expanded performance opportunities. Her vision includes offering group lessons, music theory, and solfège classes to give students a deep and well-rounded understanding of music.
Today, Susanna Kyaruns continues to inspire the next generation of musicians as a dedicated teacher, accomplished performer, and passionate advocate for musical education.