Testimonials

During my years as Representative Dubai Trinity College London, Regional Consultant ME TCL and Senior Vice President (Asia) TCL, the support of Nerissa has been a key to the development of Trinity College London in Dubai from graded to diplomas assessments. Her desire to support and motivate learners has enhanced the journey of many in the arts that she has touched. Some 15 years ago when I first met Nerissa she was an energetic piano tutor with her own studio teaching as so many others do. But over the years her zest for learning and professional development has not only supported hundreds of aspiring musicians in the Middle East, it has solidified her place as an educationist and music academic.  I must say I’m grateful to call Nerissa Lobo a colleague and I applaud her as a friend of the arts and mentor to the future of music education. 

Tyler Smith
SVP (Asia) Trinity College London

 

Nerissa Lobo is a unique lady that you need in your life!

I first met Nerissa as one of the Parents of my ballet students…                        
I have had the pleasure of teaching her three daughters over many, many years, who all reflect her attention to detail, her caring nature, her positive outlook and zest for life, but most importantly an enthusiasm for learning and self improvement! 

Nerissa then became my Accompanist for my annual Ballet exams…                                            
She has been such a pleasure to work with, bringing with her a sense of calm & control, a willingness to please and perfect, and a happy disposition that rubs off onto all those around her. Her technical expertise and beautiful execution, has enhanced the musical appreciation and performance quality of my senior dancers, thus enabling them to find the best of themselves and reach their full potential on exam day.

 As an Educator herself………                                                                                                         
Nerissa appreciates and understands the importance of a teaching career, whether it be in pure academics, music or ballet. She understands the great influence a teacher can have on young lives, to inspire, to guide, and to use our craft to support life lessons. Nerissa has supported me and encouraged me on countless occasions both professionally and personally. After all these years, I am fortunate to consider Nerissa a very special friend.         

Nerissa is a truly inspirational lady, who possesses a rare, special quality that adds a bit of magic to everything she touches. I am grateful she came into my life. 

Nicola Trotter                      
ARAD   ADPA(Dance)   BHMS   RAD RTS
Principal - Dance Horizons

 

 

I first met Nerissa when I was teaching at the Dubai Gem School in the UAE. I was the Ballet teacher for the school when she joined as a pianist, I also conducted my own private Ballet classes after school hours, training students through the RAD Grade levels. Pianists were a rare find in Dubai at the time and when I requested Nerissa to accompany my students for their Ballet exams – I had not only found a Pianist but also struck gold!

We would rehearse daily for two weeks prior to the exams. Nerissa had never played in this capacity before, but she walked into it like the professional she is. After initially communicating what was necessary, I allowed her the freedom to do what she does best………….make beautiful music.

Exercises for Ballet exams can be quite boring and tedious because of the monotony of having to play the same melody over and over again for the many students who do the exams. But Nerissa never tired, nor did she display a sense of boredom with the repetitive work. It was a sheer delight to listen to her, because she played each short piece as if it were a performance - with depth and feeling. She came well prepared for rehearsals and did not use this time to sight read the music. She was alert and attentive to my instructions her fingers at the ready waiting for my command. The students loved to dance to her music. Their faces lit up when I told them we were to have live music. Many of the Ballet examiners commented on her musicality and passion; reiterating that I was fortunate to have found a good pianist, for they are hard to find.

Over the years, I could see the quality of my dancers improving because of the intensity of Nerissa’s playing when she accompanied them. Indeed I owe their good results and musicality to her efforts. Nerissa accompanied my students for many years till I finally moved away from Dubai in 2004 to migrate to Canada. I continue to teach; but miss Nerissa; and often speak about her with my students. Her musicality, and passion for what she does is truly commendable.

Ms. Vino Wijeratne
Certified Teacher Royal Academy of Dance (Lond. UK.)
Associate member Canadian Dance Teachers Association

 

 

 

 My first piano lesson was simply to appease my mum’s constant reminders that I should really learn an instrument. I remember feeling nervous as I walked in, having had not touched a piano in years. We had a student concert a few months later, where I played a piece that consisted of notes that literally involved one octave and lasted about ten seconds. At that point, I could have never imagined that three years later, I would complete my grade 3 and 4 examinations, learn musical theory and grow to appreciate the piano as more than just an instrument my mum forced me to play.  

Furthermore, over the years, I have come to realize that not only is Mrs. Nerissa a kind and wonderful individual, but also a patient and dedicated teacher. Keeping up with A levels and piano examinations can be a stressful experience. I have walked into lessons unprepared several times, yet I always remember her going through the content with me slowly, allowing me to work at a pace I find comfortable, while of course still encouraging me to work harder and achieve the most I possibly can. Additionally, even though examinations are a great redemption for hard work, piano lessons don’t just end there. Whether it’s a song on the radio, or a classical piece, there’s always time in lessons to explore music that you love and enjoy.

Finally, if you’re in the position I was in three years ago, and wary about starting an instrument at the age of fifteen or even older, I can confidently say it has been one of the most pleasurable and rewarding experiences of my life. And if you’re younger, know that you have incredible potential to make the most of the experience before you too need to leave for university. Especially with Mrs. Nerissa, who has truly been an inspiration to aim high and triumph.

Rhea Shewakramani

 

 

Music is a creative field, unlike academic subjects it has to be felt first, in order to develop an appreciation and to learn. Teaching a child to excel in music therefore takes extraordinary skill and talent. In the fourteen years that Nerissa Lobo has taught my daughter I can honestly say she has an abundance of both. Under Nerissa's guidance, Mallika completed her eight grades of music, successfully completing the ATCL in 2015.

Music Class was the one class my daughter never skipped. Trinity too clearly approved of Nerissa's teaching skills, awarding her students with distinctions, year on year- results which in no small measure are due to her exceptional dedication. As a parent what I appreciate most in Nerissa is her commitment to the development of her students beyond mere examinations. Each year she made painstaking efforts to stage a formal concert in order to give each of her students, the chance to perform. Giving them confidence and opportunity - building blocks they need from a young age. During exam season she never hesitated to squeeze in a few extra classes if a student needed it, calmly soothing last minute jitters.

One of the highlights of Mallika's experiences was to jointly perform a six hand piece at a charity concert. She enjoyed the concert immensely, as it was refreshingly different from exam performances. Students learn to overcome their anxieties, as Nerissa teaches them to enjoy music for what truly is. She accomplishes difficult tasks with lighthearted flair but above all she gifts her students with a passion and lifelong love for music. 

Priya Rau

   

 

When I first met Nerissa, she came across as strict, insisted that all her students had to work hard, saying she didn't have time to teach those who weren't committed. That was a lot to take in. Especially in Dubai where everyone is ready to teach as long as you pay on time.  

Over time I realized that Nerissa is a conscientious hardworking tutor that puts her heart and soul into her students. Their successes and failures matter to her immensely. She adopts your child for that 45 minutes every week and cares about their well being physically, emotionally and mentally. There are lots of piano teachers but very few that show integrity, compassion and a no nonsense unpretentious approach to music!  

Nerissa adapts her teaching to suit the students. She is always open to learning from the people she comes in contact with. The fact that she keeps pushing herself to accomplish new goals and certificates, sets a great example for the children she teaches.  

When my eldest decided she didn't want to do exams anymore, Nerissa agreed to carry on the lessons just to keep encouraging her love of music and maybe even improve her listening skills so she could try to play by ear at times. Nerissa’s expertise and skill are apparent in her own accolades. Her students are known to get distinctions and she sets high standards for her students only after she has set them for herself. 

Yet every student concert at her home feels like you are in a friend's house. Generations of brothers and sisters have been taught by Nerissa. There is obviously a consistency in her abilities to teach as well as motivate and inspire the children that are entrusted to her. My second daughter is with Nerissa now and I can't wait to see how she does. It won't be too long before I send my son there too! 

Sima Ved
Vice Chairperson 
Apparel Group

 

I had been playing the piano since I was 6 and been through a couple of teachers before Nerissa was referred to us. I had just begun high school and the idea of a new teacher was daunting. I recall playing the Für Elise when I first met her because it was the only piece of music I could confidently say I played well. Nerissa's assessment was that it was good but it would be much better if I played it from the heart. That was when my 13-year old self knew that here was an individual that would challenge me to push myself past my boundaries and not just teach me how to play the notes on a sheet of music. And so began my 6-year musical journey through the last 4 grades of piano exams, recitals, duets and much more!

Nerissa inspires and motivates her students to achieve more than they think possible whist encouraging them to tap into hidden potential. She teaches a wide repertoire of music and what I loved most was that she was always open to listening to what you want out of the music lesson.

Every year was a fresh start and a new musical adventure. There was never a dull moment in class and I always found myself hoping that she would lose track of time and continue to teach for just a little longer. Her technique and knowledge of music goes far beyond anyone I know. I would always listen to her with such awe and only hope that I could eventually be half the music teacher she is.

Whether you are a brand new or established student of piano faced with the same daunting task, I cannot tell you enough that Nerissa will change the way you view and play music. Playing a chord or arpeggio will have more meaning to it after a single class with her. With hard work, perseverance and the eagerness to learn more, it will by far be an experience that will stick with you far beyond your classes. And when you do decide to start at her studio, try to absorb as much as you can from her. Because you will constantly hear her say that “the details make all the difference”. I have applied this principle throughout my years in music, at college and through my current job as an engineer. She always taught me to put emotion into my performances. And here I am more than 10 years after I had my last class with Nerissa and I still find myself playing the Für Elise with more emotion that I can handle, a Gershwin piece with comedic enthusiasm or a Tchaikovsky piece with romantic sentiment. 

Jennifer Serrao Rodrigues

 

 

Without the right guidance, talent will get you nowhere. After refusing to do the 'pony trot' at ballet class, my parents decided to let me explore the world of instruments instead. I still remember my first class; I was, of course, terrified, my feet inches off the floor as I struggled onto the seat. After that first class, however, I couldn't be separated from my first 'piano', an ancient little Casio studded with too many buttons, and I owe it all to Mrs. Nerissa Lobo.  

Nerissa always manages to find the perfect balance, knowing when to be tough on you for not working on the note she had corrected the previous class, and when to laugh hard enough that you both have tears streaming down your faces. 

She has the uncanny ability to translate years of experience into simple, creative analogies you could have never conceived of otherwise. In class, she equipped me with both the skill to master the 'technical' and, more importantly, the ability to appreciate the 'emotion' I needed to feel and convey to an audience, thus enabling me to bring pieces to life. 

Nerissa knows what you are capable of when you aren't aware yourself; I could've never imagined performing Chopin's Fantasie Impromptu, a beautiful but technically intricate and ridiculously fast-paced piece which I'd struck right off the list after giving it a listen, for my ATCL examination. She knows exactly when you're ready for an exam or a performance and once she does, her unwavering faith in your abilities, along with the many classes of tackling the minute details of the piece and mini concerts to boost your confidence, is really all the reassurance you need to settle those nerves.  

She is one of the most talented musicians I've ever had the pleasure of knowing and learning under. Not everyone who can be a brilliant performer and teach just as well but if anyone can, it's her. I can say without any hesitation that Nerissa has been one of my most favourite teachers (and believe me, the top spots are limited), and that I could never dream of having done things any differently if given the chance. I can guarantee you that you'll feel just the same.  

Mallika Rau

 

 

  

I enrolled in piano lessons with Ms. Nerissa when I was just seven years old and continued for 11 years. I remember being thrilled to start classes and finally learn an instrument. What I loved most was how much faith she had in her students to succeed. I think that this sort of faith is essential for anyone to succeed. I also loved how every class was so unique, and was a mixture of a variety of different things. I was able to learn songs from various genres and eras. Not only did I learn piano while under the guidance of Ms. Nerissa, but also some very valuable life lessons on confidence and perseverance. Learning the piano with Ms. Nerissa also opened me up to new opportunities, as her style of teaching enforced important principles of practicing and performing. To anyone even hesitant about joining, I strongly urge that you put away these hesitations and join! You will certainly not regret it.

Iman Iqbal

 

 

Nerissa Lobo is an outstanding piano teacher. She began teaching my daughter Vedika when she was just four years old. After all the stories of "Tyrant like" piano teachers, Nerissa was a welcoming surprise. Today I am a proud parent of a child who plays the piano as well as understands music theory.

Nerissa makes learning piano fun and interesting for children by allowing them to choose some of their own contemporary pieces, and by using prizes and little treats to give the kids a sense of accomplishment. Her teaching style is the perfect balance of friendly and encouraging, yet very professional with an emphasis on progress. She sets high expectations and inspires her students through her own love of music. 

I would like to say that I feel tremendously blessed that my daughter is training under her. Nerissa is modest about her own accomplishments and truly believes in the respective potentials of her students. I would highly recommend Nerissa to any student fortunate enough to work with her.

Yasmin Valladares

 

 

My mom’s considerations for sending me to piano classes would have been that Nerissa would be too easy on me and wouldn’t push hard for growth. Starting and finishing on time and a consistent ongoing schedule of classes (without frequent cancellations) were also important considerations for her. However, after joining Nerissa’s piano studio and having had different piano teachers before her, what was different about Nerissa’s teaching was that in addition to preparing me for the exam curriculum, I also learnt additional pieces to develop technique and have fun! Thinking back, a six hand performance piece was one of the highlights of learning from Nerissa. It was a unique experience to have to coordinate with two other pianists while we all played on a single piano!

Nerissa’s approach towards theory was great, because it was geared towards composition and developing individual styles and interpretations of music. Nerissa was very particular on learning from different source and studying much more than the required materials in order for me to go above and beyond with my musical theory.

Other benefits of learning under her guidance were incorporating technique regularly to strengthen hands and fingers; Sight reading- Nerissa had great suggestions regarding breaking down sight reading and I found this much easier once I started learning with her; Musicality- Observing phrases, pedal work and other aspects of musicality was imperative when learning with Nerissa; she was great at explaining how to interpret and adapt these aspects according to the musical period of the composer, the style of the piece and the timing of the rhythm

Nerissa is very adaptable and astute as a teacher. She is great at modifying her communication style and instruction according to a student’s strengths and areas of development, so take a few classes with her and then decide J

I have known Nerissa for 15+ years and in addition to being a great teacher, she is a wonderful person who creates a welcoming and comfortable environment for her students. She also takes time to get to know their families through recitals and works very hard to create additional opportunities for growth and development. During my time with her as a student, I also accompanied her when she was a guest pianist and attended concerts with her.

Danica Martis

  

 

 

Since joining Ms Nerissa’s piano studio, I have progressed so much in my piano journey. From starting in 2013, I would have never imagined to complete so many piano exams, with distinctions and also get a chance to play in The Emirates Festival of Literature, Trinity Concert. All thanks to Ms. Nerissa who has truly been an inspiration to me.

With Ms. Nerissa, playing the piano is not just about learning your piano exam pieces and just showing up for the exam, there is so much more. She helps you build a foundation on the piano, using a variety of different ways and methods that suit you, (as everybody has a different learning style). Moreover, there is always time in the lesson to play a variety of other repertoire or songs by ear, not forgetting the aural part of music.

Besides being a wonderful and amazing Piano teacher, Ms. Nerissa is also one of the most hard-working, positive and encouraging people I have met. I remember the many times I have walked into one of my lessons, not having practised anything. However, whatever the situation, Ms. Nerissa has always encouraged me to work harder and achieve the best I can.

The following quote reflects Ms. Nerissa’s teaching style very well.  “The slower you go, the faster you’ll get there” – John Link. Ms. Nerissa takes the time to make sure you have learnt the basics properly, and have had a good foundation before moving onto the more tricky stuff. And because you will have got a proper foundation, the trickier parts will then be easier for you. This is one of the many things I like about her teaching. 

I have so many fun times in my piano lessons and truly enjoy and look forward to them every week, and am sure anyone else joining the piano studio will too. Whether you are starting the piano as an older student or younger student, know that age doesn’t matter when you want to learn something. In both cases it will be an amazing experience especially under the guidance of Ms. Nerissa.

Reva Poddar