Pianist Erik Ettinger began studying the piano at an early age but did not decide to make music his career until attending Seminole Community College in Sanford, Florida where he was a pupil of Nancy Hartman. He then continued his education at Stetson University, the University of Missouri at Kansas City, the University of New Mexico, and the University of Florida, where he completed his PhD in Music: History and Literature.
Erik has performed in concerts, master classes and competitions in the U.S., Germany, and Italy. In a more contemporary vein, he has performed with the Orlando based rock group, The Lost Woods, and as part of the Gainesville jazz trio, Triple Entendre as well as having performed as a pianist, organist, and accompanist for Rolling Hills Moravian Church in Longwood, FL. Performances abroad include participation in the Internationales Klavierfestival in Lindlar, Germany where he performed a solo recital, a group recital, and participated in masterclasses with pianist/composer, Falko Steinbach.
As a piano teacher, Erik has over 20 years experience teaching students of all ages in homes, schools, and universities. He feels grateful for the lessons learned from all of his teachers, including Nancy Hartman, Michael Rickman, Harold Blanchard, Richard Cass, Bram Wijnands, Falko Steinbach, and Kevin Sharpe, and seeks to share his knowledge with others. He is currently an adjunct professor of piano and music appreciation at Seminole Community College. Erik tries to help students develop their talents while instilling an appreciation for music