Established in 2017, Raposa Millar Piano & Theory Studio offers exceptional music education in the heart of Swansea / Bloor West Village, Toronto. Our home studio provides a nurturing environment where students of all ages can develop their musical talents through personalized instruction.
Piano Instructor
20+ Years Teaching Experience
Expert in Collaborative Piano
Education: Eastman School of Music, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, University of New Hampshire
Lisa brings over two decades of teaching experience and expertise in collaborative piano. Her approach focuses on developing both technical proficiency and musical expression, helping students discover their unique musical voice while building strong foundational skills.
Music Theory Instructor
Member of the College of Examiners, Royal Conservatory of Music
Chamber Musician, Soloist, and Arranger
Education: Eastman School of Music, University of Toronto, The Glenn Gould School, McGill University
Gregory is certified by the Royal Conservatory of Music and serves as a Member of the College of Examiners. His comprehensive approach to music theory instruction helps students understand the grammar and vocabulary of music while preparing them for Royal Conservatory examinations.
"My hope for every child, teenager, or adult is that they will experience that spark of joy when they master a difficult passage or create a sound they find especially beautiful. Irrespective of one's goals, the process of discovering musical patterns and their nuances can provide lifelong fulfillment. It's why I've been helping people learn to improve their piano playing through better listening for over two decades."— Lisa Raposa Millar, DMA
"Music Theory is often thought of as dry, "brainy", or a subject that one either "gets" or does not. In my teaching I aim to break down these misconceptions. Music theory is music literacy. Any student is capable of acquiring pitch and rhythmic understanding, along with written and analytical skills, that will open them up to engage with music on a deeper level."— Gregory Millar, DMA
"Lisa and Greg's compassionate and professional approach to teaching piano, theory, and history was crucial in helping me pursue an ARCT Diploma in Piano Performance. Throughout every lesson I had with them, Lisa and Greg continuously and consistently put in the effort of scrutinizing and improving my musical skills to help me find success within the Royal Conservatory of Music's piano program. This effort comes from Lisa and Greg's shared and genuine passion for music and music teaching, which is what allows their students to succeed at the highest standards."— Andrew Ganea, former student
"A very sensible teacher who is close to her students. She has a wide repertoire from contemporary to... classical, you name it. She is really open to suggestions and interprets songs brilliantly. Last but not least, her passion and love for both teaching and playing give us the pleasure of learning the art of playing piano."— The Baghdisar Family
"Lisa taught my two children piano for about two years and the kids thoroughly enjoyed her positive attitude, her advanced knowledge, her patience and understanding and her pleasant demeanor. I was so impressed, I started lessons myself at 44 years old and she made me so comfortable it was fantastic!"— Teresa, parent
Gregory Millar is certified by the Royal Conservatory of Music and serves as a Member of the College of Examiners, ensuring the highest standards of musical education and pedagogy in our theory instruction.
Piano Lessons
Music Theory
Playing the piano is one of life's great pleasures. We believe that anyone can be taught to play expressively. There are musical wonders to be enjoyed at every stage, from the simplest of tunes to the most intricate counterpoint.
Many paths are available for students studying piano. Some elect to prepare for festivals, exams, and university auditions, while others prefer to practice solely for personal growth and enjoyment. All students are encouraged to perform in our end-of-year Spring Recital.
The study of music theory is an important complement to lessons, whether you sing, play the piano, violin, cello, or any other instrument.
What is music theory? Simply put it is the grammar and vocabulary of music. Knowledge of theory results in a deeper understanding and enjoyment of music. It is also a path to learning repertoire more quickly and securely.
Theory lessons closely follow the Royal Conservatory curriculum and examination requirements.
In both piano and theory, helping students develop technical and personal skills they can take beyond their years of lessons is our #1 priority.
Lisa Raposa Millar, DMA
In-person lessons covering a variety of levels and styles
Gregory Millar, DMA
Online or in-person lessons following Royal Conservatory curriculum
Late-Beginning to Early-Intermediate
Children aged 10–12 are often in the late-beginning to early-intermediate stage with some still using method books and others tackling sonatinas. At this phase, we emphasize classical hand positioning with coordinated wrist and arm motions to bring music, such as that of J.S. Bach, to life. Special focus is given to triads, since playing multiple notes at once lets the piano truly feel like an orchestra at one's fingertips.
Intermediate, Advanced, Diploma Level
Teenagers continue to develop their musical tastes and, as their hands grow, they are able to access pieces requiring a span of an octave or more. In this intermediate stage, we focus on building solid habits while exploring the "foreign languages" of different composers. Early teens (13–15) learn to play four-note chords with a full sound, laying a foundation for studying Romantic repertoire by composers such as Frederic Chopin. Students in their mid- to late- teens (16–18), continue to refine their expressive range while studying music from the 17th to 21st centuries.
All Levels Welcome
Adults who wish to take up piano as a meaningful life project are welcome to contact us. Our approach adapts to adult learning styles and goals, whether you're beginning your musical journey or returning to the piano after years away.
Theory I is the foundational level covering the basics of reading (the staff, clefs, note values) as well as scales, intervals, and rhythm (up through RCM Level 2).
Theory II builds upon the material of Theory I and adds octave transposition, simple meters, more major and minor scales, and the primary triads and seventh chords. Students who complete this class will be ready to take the RCM Level 5 Theory examination.
Theory III covers more advanced topics that are requirements for the Level 6, 7, and 8 examinations.
Introduction to tonal harmonic concepts and analysis required for RCM Level 9 certification.
Comprehensive study of harmony and counterpoint techniques for RCM Level 10 certification.
Diploma-level study of advanced harmony and counterpoint for ARCT certification.
Comprehensive musical analysis techniques and methodologies for ARCT certification.
Our academic calendar includes important dates such as school year start/end, holidays when lessons are cancelled, and special events like recitals.
Our student recitals provide valuable performance experience in a supportive environment. These events celebrate student achievements and help build confidence on stage while sharing the joy of music with family and friends.
Recitals give students opportunities to perform and build confidence in a welcoming, supportive atmosphere.
Each recital is a celebration of student achievements and musical growth, showcasing the hard work and dedication of our learners.
Share the joy of music with loved ones as students perform pieces they've been working on throughout the year.
Take a look at some special moments from our recitals and events over the years. These photos capture the joy, accomplishment, and musical growth of our students.
In addition to studio recitals, we encourage students to perform in festivals, master classes, exams, and other events hosted by organizations in the GTA.
Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association
Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association
Formal evaluation and certification opportunities
Contemporary Showcase
Platform for contemporary Canadian music performance
Annual music competition and performance festival
Regional music festival with various categories
Provincial organization for member music festivals at the local level
Here are answers to common questions about our piano and theory lessons. If you don't see your question answered here, feel free to contact us directly.
We accept piano students starting at age 10 and up. This includes children (10-12), teenagers (13-18), and adults of all ages.
Piano lessons are primarily offered in-person, with online makeups available as needed. Theory lessons are available both online and in-person, giving students flexibility in how they learn music theory concepts.
Piano lessons are typically 45 or 60 minutes weekly, with longer time blocks available for advanced students. Theory lessons are 45 or 60 minutes weekly. Regular weekly lessons provide the consistency needed for steady musical progress.
Yes! Gregory Millar is an RCM certified teacher and Member of the College of Examiners. We offer comprehensive preparation for RCM piano and theory examinations, from the beginning through advanced diploma levels (ARCT).
Yes, it's a "Ch-ch-ch-chia!" Greg won this Chia Pet Turtle as a prize for the "best chorale harmonization" when he was a student at McGill University. Right now Chia is on vacation but by mid-fall, he'll be sprouting wildly.
Contact us to discuss lessons, schedule a consultation, or ask any questions about our programs. We'd be happy to hear from you and help you discover the joy of music.
Fill out the form below to inquire about piano or theory lessons.