Alfonso Hernandez

My teaching philosophy centers on nurturing a lifelong love of music by prioritizing artistry and imagination over mere piano technique. However, I blend traditional core repertoire and disciplined technical routines with modern insights into physiology—such as the Taubman approach—to help students develop expressive, sustainable technique. Equally important is the joy of performing and growth through real-world feedback: I encourage performances, constructive criticism, and community engagement (playing for others!) to foster both musicality and confidence. In my studio, students encounter a supportive and inclusive environment that balances artistic standards with emotional and personal development.

Dr. Alfonso Hernandez is a distinguished pianist and educator originally from Guatemala. He holds a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Maryland—where his dissertation focused on 20th and 21st‑century Guatemalan piano literature—as well as a degree in Arts Innovation from the Global Leaders Institute. A co‑founder of FIMCA Guatemala (International Chamber Music Festival of Guatemala) and the “Luis Felipe Arias” Piano Festival and Competition, he brings a deep commitment to musical culture and education.

Beginning piano at age 4, Dr. Hernandez trained at Guatemala’s National Conservatory by age 7, debuting with the National Symphony at 12 and winning nearly every national competition available. He continued his studies in the U.S., earning his Bachelor of Music (cum laude) at the University of Houston, a Master of Music at Eastman School of Music, and a Professional Performance Certificate from Lynn University. He has performed at esteemed festivals—including Aspen and Chautauqua—and in numerous universities across the United States with the Core Ensemble. As an educator, he has taught at various institutions and in Guatemala as a visiting faculty member at the University of San Carlos.