An Interview with Robert Zuromski

As my piano teacher says, music is the universal language. It has the power to unite all different kinds of people, and we all interpret it in our own ways. It allows us to express ourselves however we feel. Music is such a beautiful thing, but it takes a lot of time and effort. In addition to being a thing everyone loves, there are so many statistics that support the learning of music; higher test scores, emotional development, etc. I wanted to know how music differs from traditional subjects and find out more information on what it takes to be a musician, so I turned to Robert Zuromski, my piano teacher. He has three degrees, (A.A., B.A., M.A.), so I wanted to know what inspired him to pursue such a difficult field.

What got you interested in music?
I played piano from a young age but really started getting interested in music once I discovered synthesizers and electronic music.
What inspired you to become a piano teacher?
I enjoy teaching, sharing things, and helping people, and I really like the practical things in life. To me, it’s the joy of teaching someone something and watching as they accomplish something truly great. It’s really inspiring, and it also becomes a learning experience. You fulfill the cycle of learning by teaching.
What advice do you have for people looking to pursue music as a career?
What advice? Well, first, you have to make sure you have the love of music before you dedicate yourself. If you have the spark of love, then you have the potential and possibility of becoming something amazing. It will be very hard and challenging, but the end result is so rewarding.
What musical hobbies do you enjoy?
I love synthesizers. Synthesizers are meant for composition. The thing that’s so great about them is that they are a whole electronic musical orchestra. They have phenomenal sound capabilities and contain the means for new sounds, new ideas, and new music. The thing about synthesizers, piano, and just music, in general, is that you can express your voice in a unique way.
How is music different than other subjects to study?
See, I was a music major in college. The thing is, it’s an art. But it’s also a scientific language. The main difference between music and other subjects is that not all subjects are hands-on. In music, what you intellectually preach, you have to be able to physically do. It’s one thing to know the theory, it’s another to actually do it in real life.