Anna Choi

Bandoneon Lessons in Rotterdam - Anna Choi

Welcome! I'm Anna Choi, a South Korean bandoneonist based in Rotterdam. Originally from Seoul, my fascination with the expressive sound of the bandoneon brought me to the Netherlands, where I specialised in Bandoneon and World Music at Codarts University of the Arts.

Learn the Bandoneon with an Experienced Performer and Teacher

Alongside my career as a performing musician, I enjoy teaching students of all ages and levels, from complete beginners discovering the instrument for the first time to advanced players looking to refine their technique, musical expression and tango style.

Your favourite genre

Whether your dream is to play the music of Astor Piazzolla, traditional Argentine tango, classical music or contemporary repertoire, I'll help you develop the skills and confidence to enjoy making music on this extraordinary instrument.

Bandoneon Lessons for Beginners

Have you fallen in love with the sound of the bandoneon through tango or the music of Astor Piazzolla? Maybe you've even tried playing one and quickly discovered how challenging it can be.

You're not alone

I started learning the bandoneon as an adult, after already playing another instrument. I understand the challenges of learning its unique keyboard layout and developing coordination between both hands and the bellows. That's why my lessons are designed to make learning enjoyable, structured and inspiring from the very first session.

A Musical Approach

Rather than memorising buttons from the start, we'll learn through music. You'll begin with simple melodies, gradually adding harmonies while developing your ear and musical intuition. Along the way you'll learn:

• reading music
• basic music theory
• rhythm and timing
• hand coordination
• musical expression
• confidence on the instrument

Every lesson is adapted to your pace and personal goals.

Learning to Breathe with the Bandoneon

The bandoneon is unlike any keyboard instrument. Its bellows function like the breath of a wind instrument. Learning to control the airflow is just as important as pressing the correct buttons. Together we'll develop a natural relationship with the instrument through three simple principles:

• Inhale
• Exhale
• Play

This approach improves tone production, phrasing, dynamics and musical expression while helping you play with greater ease and relaxation.

Healthy Technique and Posture

Many beginners experience unnecessary tension in their hands, wrists or shoulders. Good technique starts with efficient movement.

During the lessons we pay close attention to:

• relaxed posture
• healthy hand position
• efficient bellows control
• body awareness
• injury prevention

Developing these habits early allows you to play comfortably and expressively for years to come.

Advanced Bandoneon & Tango Coaching

Already have experience on the bandoneon? Together we'll refine every aspect of your playing, including:

• advanced bellows technique
• articulation
• dynamics
• phrasing
• vibrato
• marcato
• syncopation
• staccato
• rubato
• tango interpretation
• musical storytelling

The goal is not only technical mastery, but developing your own artistic voice.

Expand Your Repertoire

Although the bandoneon is best known for Argentine tango, it is an incredibly versatile instrument. Depending on your interests, we can explore music by:

• Johann Sebastian Bach
• Domenico Scarlatti
• Astor Piazzolla
• traditional Argentine tango
• contemporary composers
• folk music
• film music
• popular songs

Lessons are always tailored to your musical preferences and ambitions.

Ensemble Coaching

Do you play in a tango orchestra, chamber ensemble, duo or trio? I offer coaching on ensemble playing, helping musicians improve:

• rhythmic precision
• articulation
• balance
• listening skills
• communication within the ensemble
• stylistic interpretation

Learning to play together is just as rewarding as mastering the instrument itself.

Lesson Location

Lessons take place in my private teaching studio in Rotterdam East. I can also travel to nearby locations that are easily accessible by public transport. Lessons are available in English and Korean.

About Anna Choi

Anna Choi graduated in World Music from Codarts University of the Arts in Rotterdam and continued her studies with the internationally renowned bandoneon master Juanjo Mosalini at the Conservatoire Edgar-Varèse in France.

As a professional bandoneonist, she performs throughout Europe in tango ensembles, orchestras and interdisciplinary artistic projects, combining traditional Argentine tango with classical and contemporary music.

Her teaching philosophy combines solid technical foundations with creativity, musical expression and the joy of making music.

Whether you're picking up a bandoneon for the first time or preparing for the concert stage, Anna offers personalised lessons that help you grow as a musician.