EAMA Students Perform at Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires

EAMA students at Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires, June 24, 2025.

Ten talented young pianists from the Washington DC metropolitan area performed at Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires on June 24, 2025, presenting works by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninov, Franck, Schubert, and Scriabin to an international audience.

These pianists, ranging in age from 10 to 16, hailing from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, have distinguished themselves on the international stage. All are dedicated students of Dr. Bella E. Oster and are enrolled at the European Academy of Music and Art in Silver Spring, Maryland. These gifted musicians have been named the 2025 Winners of the International Association for Musically Gifted Children’s International Piano Contest, an honor that recognizes their exceptional artistry, discipline, and passion for music.

The Venue and Its Significance

Teatro Colón ranks among the world’s premier opera houses, alongside La Scala, the Vienna State Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. The venue has hosted Martha Argerich, Daniel Barenboim, and Plácido Domingo, among other renowned performers.

The concert hall’s acoustics and historical significance make it a notable venue for classical music performance. For young musicians to perform on this stage represents substantial achievement in their musical development.

The Program

The repertoire included technically demanding works such as Bach/Busoni’s Chaconne in d minor, Franck’s Prelude, Chorale and Fugue, and Bach/Busoni’s Toccata and Fugue in d minor. These pieces are typically performed by conservatory-level musicians, requiring advanced technical skills and musical understanding.

Each student has been working with Dr. Bella Eugenia Oster, Principal and Professor of Piano Performance at EAMA, who has five decades of experience in teaching classical music. Under her guidance, students develop the skills necessary to perform complex classical repertoire.

Context and Background

This performance continues a pattern of EAMA students performing at prestigious international venues. Previous student performances have taken place at Carnegie Hall (NY), Royal Albert Concert Hall (UK), Musikverein (Austria), Bastille Opera House (France), Parco della Musica (Italy), numerous others and now Teatro Colón.

“For these young musicians to perform on this historic stage represents not only personal achievement but also recognition of the caliber of music education available in our community,” said Dr. Oster.

Educational Approach

The students’ ability to perform at this level reflects EAMA’s comprehensive approach to piano education. The curriculum combines advanced technical training with music theory education and regular local, national, and international performance opportunities. This foundation enables students to develop both the technical skills and musical understanding necessary for sophisticated repertoire.

Students at EAMA receive individual instruction tailored to their abilities and developmental stage. The academy serves students ages 3-18, with programs designed to meet the needs of students at various skill levels.

Beyond Performance

EAMA students have gained admission to elite universities including Harvard, MIT, Yale, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, Duke, and UC Berkeley. This pattern suggests that the skills developed through intensive musical study contribute to academic achievement across disciplines.

The academy’s approach emphasizes both musical excellence and academic preparation, reflecting Dr. Oster’s belief that musical education develops concentration, discipline, and analytical thinking that benefit students in all areas of study.

What This Means

For parents considering serious music education for their children, this performance demonstrates what becomes possible with appropriate instruction and dedication. The students who performed at Teatro Colón began their studies at various ages and developed their skills through consistent practice and expert guidance.

The performance also indicates the level of musical instruction available in the Washington DC metropolitan area, where students can receive training that prepares them for international performance opportunities.

Interested in learning more about EAMA’s programs and how your child can develop their musical abilities? Contact us to discuss our comprehensive classical piano education approach and discover what’s possible for your young musician.