Classical foundation. Modern approach. A family studio offering private lessons for students of all ages in Buckeye, Arizona.
"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination."
Book a LessonMusic has never been a hobby in the Varner family — it's a way of life. Cynthia Varner spent years running MusicGrinder, a beloved local music store and coffee shop, while building a studio of students that grew through two decades of devoted teaching. Her son Andrew went on to become a professional fiddle player in Nashville, performing with James Carrothers and touring alongside Alan Jackson.
Varner Studio carries that legacy forward. What began as Alexander stepping in to help with Cynthia's more advanced students has grown into something bigger — two instructors, one shared belief that every student deserves to truly understand and love what they're playing.
"Don't tell me how talented you are. Tell me how hard you work."
Alexander began teaching at 14, stepping in alongside his mother and gradually taking on her more advanced students. Now with five years of teaching experience, he brings both technical discipline and a genuine love for the music to every lesson.
His deepest passion is Classical and Romantic repertoire, but he works with students across all styles. Whatever you bring him, he'll help you understand it at a deeper level — how it works, why it moves, and how to approach it with intention. He holds his students to a high standard and pushes them forward.
Alexander currently studies under Dr. Vitaly Serebriakov, a Russian-trained concert pianist, while working toward his ARCT diploma — one of the most respected credentials in classical piano performance.
Cynthia Varner has been teaching piano for over 20 years. She built her studio through decades of patient, devoted work — first through MusicGrinder, the beloved local music store and coffee shop she ran for years, and then through the steady stream of students who kept coming back.
She has studied with pianists across a wide range of traditions and brings that breadth to her teaching. What sets Cynthia apart is her ability to truly reach kids — especially the very young beginners who need someone warm, patient, and genuinely interested in who they are. She doesn't just teach notes. She builds confidence.
"Alexander has an incredible gift for connecting with students. My daughter went from dreading practice to asking for extra time at the piano. The progress in just a few months has been remarkable."
"I started as a complete adult beginner and Alexander made me feel at ease immediately. He structured lessons in a way that actually made sense. I'm now playing pieces I never thought possible."
"We've tried other teachers before, but Varner Studio is different. Alexander genuinely cares about each student. My son is more confident, more musical, and truly loves his lessons."
Reach out to schedule your first lesson or ask any questions. Spots are limited — don't wait.
Verrado Community · Buckeye, Arizona · varnerstudio.com