YOUNG PERFORMERS BENEFIT CONCERT SUNDAY MAY 3, 2026

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(AGE 16)

 Isabella Barlis is 16 years old and recently finished the advanced level of the Piano Certificate of Merit with State Honors. She has been a part of the Piano Play family for about 12 years and studied privately with Nicole Nale. In addition to piano, she is an advanced violinist and dancer. Our team of experienced piano teachers have a passion for teaching music and have over 10 years of experience in the industry. We offer personalized lessons to help you achieve your musical goals.

(AGE 17)

 Has been a passionate student of Piano Play for 13 years under

Ms. Nicole. At just 15, he earned the Certificate of Merit and has consistently excelled in piano competitions, winning a district title 

and being a regional

finalist in the Southern California Junior Bach Festival for 9 years.

He performed at Carnegie Hall and at Queens College with his middle 

school choir and has directed the school’s Musical Improv show for

4 years. In high school, Maxx directed productions like *Murder on the Orient Express* and *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and now plays piano and sings in the Marianist Band. Recently,  he enhanced his musical journey by completing the Aspire program at 

Berklee College of Music.

(AGE 17) 

 Has been attending Piano Play classes since he was four

years old, beginning with our group classes. 

He later transitioned to private 

lessons. Now, at 16, after twelve years of musical training, he has blossomed

into a passionate performer who enjoys music ranging from 

Baroque to his 

latest passion, Jazz. Under the guidance of Ms. Sharon, 

he has participated 

in the Certificate of Merit and Certified SFEV Juries programs, earning him honors. He is currently preparing songs to compete in two upcoming local and national competitions. 

Ben has another passion: soccer. Starting at a young age, he has not only become an accomplished player but has also led Cleveland High School's soccer team to this year’s state championship.

(AGE 17)

 At 17 years of age, has been engaged in musical studies under  

the guidance of Nicole Nale and Piano Play since the age of four. Currently, she is a junior at 

Agoura High School and was recognized as a finalist in 

“Essentially Ellington's Jazz” competition at Lincoln Center. 

Furthermore, she has performed as a bassoonist with the Boston University Tanglewood Institute Wind Ensemble and currently serves as the principal 

bassoonist for the 

Colburn Youth Orchestra.

(AGE 15)

 At 15 years old, is a sophomore at Notre Dame High School. 

She began her music studies 12 years ago, starting in group classes at the age of 3 and later transitioned to private lessons at Piano Play Music Systems. 

Maya recently completed the Level 9 Certificate of Merit music test through the Music Teachers’ Association, under the direction of Ms. Sharon, is expected to finish the program next year.

In addition to her piano studies, Maya is an avid martial artist, a member of the high school track team, and serves as a school ambassador. She is enthusiastic about continuing to grow both as a musician and a performer.

(AGE 15)  

Is a sophomore at North Hollywood High School in the Highly Gifted Magnet program. He started taking piano lessons at the age of six and has been studying under Ms. Alla Arutyunyan at Piano Play since 2021. Currently, Kai is working towards achieving level 10 in the Music Teachers' Association of California (MTAC) exams.

In addition to playing the piano, Kai is a cellist in his school orchestra and serves as the pianist for the school jazz band. In his free time, he enjoys creating music using Logic Pro. He is also the co-captain of his school's varsity team and runs an online resale business.