Caylia is the best!!! From start to finish, she is a pro and the finest music teacher/musical director you can find!! I was lucky enough to have her help me with a Children's Theatre audition piece. I did not have musical theatre experience and she worked on my voice, my presentation, my confidence, my stage presence, the whole package!! After weeks of hard work with her, I ended up getting the lead role!! We spent the next six months working together and she definitely helped me with every detail on my solo songs. When it came time to finally perform, she was there for me, coaching me on how to deal with the jitters, and even how to put on false eye lashes since I was the princess!! I could not have done it without her and I just love her!!! There are no words to thank her enough or recommend her enough!! Her studio is a magical dream to visit for all ages!! read more

I have attended Caylia's students' recitals in person pre-pandemic, and on zoom, post-pandemic. I can say as an outsider, not a student or parent of a student, that Caylia is a caring, lovely teacher and it is obvious that she cares about her students, and they care about her. Her students range in age from very little to pre and post college, and they all do a wonderful job singing and/or playing piano. I believe she would be a wonderful teacher for any child for voice, piano, and/or performance coaching if you are in search of a teacher for your child. She creates a safe space for all to learn. read more

If you have always wanted to play piano but we're afraid to try...Caylia is fabulous. I am an older adult and I've always wanted to be able to sing and accompany myself on the piano. Working with Caylia this is now a dream coming true. Virtual lessons make it possible to work with her even though I now live in another county. She is so talented, patient and fun to work with. I am amazed at this process and thrilled at what I have accomplished with her in a short time. read more

I am 9 years old and I take voice lessons from Caylia. Caylia is a wonderful teacher because she improves how you sing and then she improves the things that improve what you've improved on. For example she makes me use my belly when I sing by having me stand on one foot. Plus she was the music director for 3 musicals I've been in with Marin Youth Performers! read more

I love my lessons with Caylia! We have fun and we seriously improve my voice. When I am singing, the rest of the world disappears. All those outside issues don't exist, it's just me singing. I appreciate re-learning again and again that music is good for the soul. I am learning some Italian art songs as well as popular music. Caylia often lets me pick what our next project will be. I so enjoy the variety of music I am learning. read more

Caylia is a masterful singing teacher! I have taken her Adult Singing Class and it was so fun, informative and transforming! It has given me the confidence I needed to not only sing and perform in front of an audience but also to speak in public. I always feel so nurtured and cared for in Caylia's presence. She makes learning easy and exciting and joyful! I highly recommend her! read more

We can't say enough wonderful things about Caylia! Whether it be her Private Piano lessons or her transformative "Marin Idol" singing camp, the experiences she has brought to our entire family are simply priceless. Caylia has encouraged our children (9 and 12) to stretch and challenge their piano abilities and most recently their singing voice via "Marin Idol." It's been a beautiful, magical journey to watch your children build their confidence, independence and focus through the joy of music. Hoping you're lucky enough to share in this fantastic ride. read more

I was drawn to Caylia after interviewing other Simply Music Instructors. I took Simply Music group lessons for the last 3 years with another instructor and wanted to experience private lessons and to advance my learning. Caylia is a kind, compassionate and nurturing instructor. She allows me to set the pace and does not judge my progress or lack there of, as I play for my own enjoyment and edification. She is mindful of my physical limitations in my hands and looks for ways in which to play without hand strain. I have no doubt that if I set a goal to be accomplished, her support and guidance would be in line for me to succeed. She has taught me to use playing piano as a means of expression as well as relaxation. Thank you Caylia... read more

I met Caylia mid-2018 at Mill Valley's farmers market. Her lovely and warm personality got me really excited to try her music classes out the weekend after. I have been playing guitar since I was a child and self-taught myself to play the piano the past few years. My main objective was to (a) deeply understand music (advanced theory), (b) become really well versed in playing the piano (technique), and (c) get the necessary voicing coaching in to be able to sing and play well together. Caylia mapped out a great project plan for me and has been instrumental in helping to connect the dots between music theory and actually applying it in my own singing & playing. I have tried music teachers before and can tell you without a doubt that there isn't a better person to get coached by than Caylia. Her personality, experience & expertise has elevated and motivated me to push myself to become a much better guitar & piano player and singer. I highly recommend Caylia Chaiken Music Studio and happy to be a reference for anyone considering taking music classes. read more

I started taking voice lessons from Caylia one year ago, to improve the quality of my singing voice. Within a few months, my band mates commented on the improvements they noticed in my projection, range and tone quality. Recently, we performed for an audience that has listened to our shows for years. I received numerous compliments on my vocals, everything from projection to personalization, even my confident stage presence. Beyond teaching me the fundamentals of vocal technique, such as breath control, proper support, and diction, Caylia has taught me to become more comfortable with my voice and HAVE FUN with the music, adding my own personal stamp to the song. read more

Caylia has been an amazing find! We were looking for a piano teacher that could connect with our 8 year old daughter. We had her at another studio previously but struggled to stay focused and on task. Caylia has been able to connect with her using the Simply Music method. She has made the experience challenging, fun and engaging with tremendous results. Our daughter has made more progress that we ever expected. She is even working with her on voice. I highly recommend Caylia for any kid that needs an environment and teacher that can bring out their best and let them discover their musical potential. read more

Take your children to Caylia! All three of my children, ages 7, 9, and 10 are taking Piano from Caylia. She teaches an amazing method in which they learn actual songs the first day, and they aren't "twinkle twinkle little star" they are the kid of songs that make your eyes get misty. She teaches in groups of 3 or 4, which provides a very supportive environment. Kids get to see that others make mistakes too, and also can be supportive when things are going awesome! Of course it isn't just the method that is so effective, it is also Caylia's way with children. She is firm like you imagine a piano instructor would be, but also is so incredibly supportive and has this huge smile that just takes over the room. Parents sit in the room while the group of children is practicing, and this is so helpful because you are a part of their experience and know what they need to work on, and can really celebrate their successes with them. The moment I realized how special Caylia is was actually after my daughter took an entire year of lessons and we were at the recital. It was a whole church full of supporting families, and gosh, I don't know, 30, 40 kids, I don't know, a big group. They each went up and played a little song, and I then also realized that she also teaches singing. It was a while before it suddenly dawned on me that Caylia had single handedly taught these kids everything that I was hearing that day! She truly is amazing, and a gift to our community and my children. read more

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Caylia is hands down incredible. As an adult learner, she used the Simply Music system to help me reclaim and revitalize the music in my bones, heart, and soul. What more could anyone ask for? Within a few short months, I was not only playing songs by heart, but also writing my own. She is flexible and can work with you on technique, voice, and song-writing which is such a gift. I honestly can't recommend her enough. If you're an adult looking to learn piano or reclaim your music, don't hesitate to begin lessons with her. You won't regret it. read more

Caylia Chaiken is a miracle worker and master of her art. In one week she transformed my shy granddaughter into a confident and successful performer full of such joy after her faultless recital performance. Marin Idol camp is a joyful, creative and transformative experience. I would trust Caylia with anyone who wants to sing from child to adult. After seeing her work with her Marin Idol group, I'm signing up for her adult singing class. Creative expression is something we all need, and Caylia is there to provide not only the spark but the instruction to enhance your experience and enjoyment. Sign up now. You won't be sorry. read more

I'm a 25 year old singer and Caylia was referred to me by a family friend. I told her from the beginning exactly what I was looking for in a singing coach and lessons and she kept with that guideline. I was in a band at the time and could definitely feel the difference Caylia's lessons gave me while on stage. Along with vocal technique, she gave me stage presence and performing advice. She even came to one of my gigs! She is very nonjudgemental and makes you feel comfortable doing goofy things to help achieve a better voice. She was almost like a mentor to me, very supportive and believed in me more than I had expected. I have since moved to pursue singing in NYC and miss her a lot! read more

Caylia is amazing, she is supportive and nonjudgmental, allowing you to progress at your own speed. I feel as though I have been given a wonderful gift over the past year or so, while taking piano lessons. Practicing for hours is like a massage and meditation rolled into one. As an adult I have tried to learn to play piano with absoulutely no success........until now. I finally found the right person, Caylia Chaiken. The method she uses is fun, challenging and unconventional, the songs are a combination of classical, whimsical, blues, traditional, etc. The variety of music adds so much to the experience. Thank you Caylia so very, very much! read more

We are so lucky that we were referred to and found Caylia. My 10 year old has been in group piano lessons with Caylia for several months and it has been such a rewarding experience. My daughter loves to practice and loves to go to the lessons. This is so much more than your traditional piano teacher experience! Caylia masterfully moves through the curriculum while also giving students the opportunity to explore their individual interests and styles. Caylia will also encourage students to sing, breath, emote, and have healthy posture. Each lesson is fun, playful, creative but with real tangible progress. I highly recommend Caylia Chaiken Music Studio! read more