Meet Craig Zinger, Piano Teacher and Fostering Music Partner
Craig Zinger is the owner of Craig Zinger Piano Studio, where he has taught piano students for more than 30 years. We’re lucky enough at Fostering Music to count Craig among our awesome partners and teachers! We sat down with Craig to hear more about his journey in the Fostering Music ecosystem.
Four years ago, piano teacher Craig Zinger was contacted by a woman who had adopted her two nephews and was interested in giving them piano lessons.
But she had a question: Do you work with Fostering Music?
Those six words changed the way Craig approached piano lessons—and the impact he has in the local community.
“I was impressed when I first learned about Fostering Music,” Craig says. “I was impressed someone would do something so wonderful and beneficial as giving free music lessons. I thought it was incredibly altruistic and charitable.”
Since then, Craig regularly works with three adoptees who receive piano lessons through Fostering Music.
A Life Dedicated to Music
Craig was a CPA until the early ‘90s. He’d been teaching students on the side for years, but he finally decided to give up his CPA work to teach piano full-time.
And while he loves teaching young children and performing at retirement homes, he has an impressive resume. From recording with Christina Auguleria and opening for Yianni to performing with Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits and releasing music on Spotify and Apple Music, Craig has enjoyed an illustrious career.
And he’s giving his experience back to Fostering Music students.
One of his most remarkable students, he says, is Caley Pham, a blind adoptee with perfect pitch who’s obsessed with music.
“When her mom first came to me, she said she didn’t have a lot of money for lessons, so I introduced her to Christy at Fostering Music. They connected, and Christy made sure her lessons were completely paid for. The mom called me back and was overjoyed!”
Despite her blindness, Caley has channeled an uncanny creativity and ear training to dazzle listeners on the piano—and much of that skill is thanks to Craig’s adaptability in the classroom.
Her abilities have been recognized by other professionals as well.
“My piano tuner actually donated a piano to her,” Craig says. “He was just so touched by her talent!”
A Working Relationship With Fostering Music
Working with Fostering Music couldn’t be easier, Craig says. “As a business owner, it’s great. Each month, the check for all of the classes comes. It’s very convenient and simple. I don’t even have to invoice them because they’re so on the ball!”
While he encourages other teachers and music shops to consider partnering with Fostering Music as well (check out our partners page to learn more), he also points out that it’s ultimately an invaluable gift for the children who take advantage of the program.
“This is a wonderful resource for foster kids. If they don’t have the means to pay for piano lessons—or any other lessons—this is an opportunity to make that happen. This is the door for them to experience music.
“It’s a life-long gift. Whether you’re taking piano or violin or voice lessons, it’s a wonderful addition to who you are as a person!”
Donate To Connect More Students With the Craig Zinger Piano Studio
You can help more students access life-changing lessons at Craig Zinger Piano Studio by donating to Fostering Music today! Either make a one-time donation or sign up for monthly recurring donations.