Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Martinez is incredibly passionate about music education. Inspired by her mother, who teaches 300 students at two schools in Venezuela, Ms. Martinez teaches students ages 5 to 10.

With her busy performance schedule, she uses technology to her advantage to teach her 23 students in New York City.  The iPad along with Skype have helped her to continue teaching, while also performing worldwide.

Ms. Martinez went on to discuss studying piano with her mom at the age of 5, and Julliard being her “home away from home for 12 years.”  She has performed in historical venues worldwide and when asked about the one that stand out to her, Martinez said, “A few years ago I played at the opening of the Chapel of Versailles.  I got to walk around Versailles by myself before the concert.  It was a surreal experience.”

When asked about advice for music students attending the Mike Curb College of the Arts here at CSUN, Martinez said, “The main thing is if you’re very passionate about music, stay inspired.  Go to as many concerts as possible.  Live music from all genres is so important.”

Ms. Martinez will perform for her first time in Northridge at CSUN’s VPAC this Thursday at 7:30 p.m.