Why are we called VIRTUS MUSIC?

At Virtus Music, we believe learning music should be enjoyable, inspiring, and practical.

The word virtus means “virtue” or “excellence” — and that’s what we aim for in both music and life.

We combine proven learning systems with the joy of creativity, helping students build skill, confidence, and a love for music that lasts a lifetime.

We create community, so music is shared as much as it’s practiced.

Our belief is that anyone can play the music they love.

Let us show you how!

Learn About Our Method

ACE Learning Framework

A Comprehensive Approach to Music Education

Virtus Music delivers a proven learning ecosystem designed to empower students to unlock their full potential, both as musicians and as individuals. Our ACE Learning Framework is built on three essential pillars: Approach, Cultivation, and Engagement.

Each of these elements works in harmony to create an environment where students develop key character traits as they achieve musical mastery.

Approach

Cultivation

Engagement

Approach

Personalized Instruction That Meets Students Where They Are

At Virtus Music, we appreciate each student’s uniqueness. Our approach to education is designed to meet individual needs and foster growth in every learner according to their goals.

At Virtus Music, we ensure every student feels seen, heard, and supported in their unique musical journey.

  • We tailor our instruction to each student’s

    • Learning style

    • Musical preferences

    • Personal goals

    By encouraging students to choose the music they would love to learn, we

    • Increase engagement

    • Boost learning efficacy

    • Improve retention

    Research from Harvard and Stanford supports that passion for material leads to faster learning and better retention.

  • We prioritize developing strong connections with our students, both as musicians and individuals. This allows us to

    • Adapt teaching methods to each student’s specific needs.

    • Foster trust and motivation to encourage progress.

  • Our approach extends beyond music education. We strive to

    • Ignite passion in our students.

    • Provide tools and strategies essential to achieving personal aspirations, such as:

      • Excelling in exams

      • Performing with confidence

      • Enjoying the process of creativity

Cultivation

Building a Strong Foundation for Growth

Our approach to Cultivation at Virtus Music focuses on developing musical proficiency and essential life skills. Here’s how we foster well-rounded growth in our students.

  • We nurture seven key character traits that contribute to students’ personal and musical development:

    Mindset | Focus | Discipline | Wisdom | Creativity | Excellence | Passion

    These virtues enhance musical abilities and lead to improvements in

    • Academic achievements

    • Social interactions

    • Overall well-being

    • Goal Focus: Students learn how to set goals according to their values and interests and create a plan of action to achieve them.

    • Perseverance: Students develop grit and resilience to overcome challenges.

    • Wisdom: Through introspection and reflection, students learn to make better decisions, grow from their experiences, and apply knowledge with insight and understanding.

    • Continuous Improvement: Students adopt a mindset of constant growth and excellence that will continue throughout their lives.

    The lessons we teach from our System of Virtues make a lasting, positive impact on students—both in and out of the classroom. Many students excel academically and develop the confidence to take initiative in their daily lives. They step up in classroom presentations and become more intentional about how they think and manage their time. That’s the Virtus Advantage.

  • Our Proven Learning Pathways, designed by founder Carlo Santos, help students:

    • Refine their technique

    • Improve sightreading

    • Accelerate learning

    • Channel passion into performance

  • Our carefully designed learning pathways and teaching strategies help students achieve remarkable results:

    • Students score 20-30% higher on sight-reading and technique components of exams.

    • They achieve 12% higher on theory exams and 7% higher on practical exams compared to national averages.

    • Students develop sight-reading and technique skills that surpass their current playing level, allowing them to learn more efficiently and progress with confidence.

Engagement

Bringing Music to Life Through Community

At Virtus Music, we appreciate each student’s uniqueness. Our approach to education is designed to meet individual needs and foster growth in every learner according to their goals.

  • Our monthly group classes and masterclasses provide students with opportunities to:

    • Collaborate with peers

    • Exchange ideas

    • Receive feedback from teachers

    This fosters an environment of shared learning, where students inspire and motivate each other, making their experience richer.

  • We stand out by offering frequent performance opportunities, where students:

    • Perform on a world-class stage with a concert grand piano.

    • Participate in monthly performances, something most other studios in Calgary do not offer.

    These experiences:

    • Build confidence and stage presence

    • Teach performance strategies

    • Encourage self-expression and self-esteem

    Our founder, Carlo Santos, believes in the growth that comes with frequent performances and is dedicated to providing these opportunities for every student.

  • We also host events like the Piano Playoffs and Summer Music Program, offering:

    • New ways to engage with music

    • A platform for students to develop and showcase their skills in different settings

Music is a connective experience, and these events help students grow their performance skills while enjoying the support of a vibrant community.

Empowering Students for a Lifetime of Musical Achievement

Together, the three pillars of the ACE Learning Framework—Approach, Cultivation, and Engagement—create an environment that enables students to excel musically and become virtuous individuals who develop lifelong skills, navigate challenges, and pursue their goals with dedication.

At Virtus Music, we are committed to helping students develop into skilled, confident, and passionate musicians while fostering their personal growth. Our approach is unique, our philosophy is proven, and our results speak volumes. Whether you’re a young beginner or an advanced student, the ACE Learning Framework is here to guide you on a musical journey that will empower lifelong learning.

Book My First Step

Our Talented Instructors Guide You Every Step of the Way

  • Photo of Carlo Santos

    Carlo Santos | Founder & Director

    ADVANCED PIANO & THEORY

    Read Bio
  • Photo of Kiril Varakin

    Kiril Varakin | Instructor

    BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE PIANO

    Read Bio
  • Photo of Kimia Sharifi

    Kimia Sharifi | Instructor

    BEGINNER PIANO, BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE THEORY

    Read Bio

  • Anya Liwanag | Instructor

    VOCALS & GUITAR

    Read Bio
See How Our Teachers Can Guide You

What Students Say About Us

Improvisation

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Advanced

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Inspired

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Passionate

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Confidence-building

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Improvisation • Advanced • Inspired • Passionate • Confidence-building •

Vern K.

“Whether working on improvisation of contemporary pieces or classical repertoire, Carlo is terrific at coming up with and demonstrating solutions that render even the most challenging passages easy to learn. His approach is student-centered, supportive, and fun.”

Tracy L.

“My daughter advanced to level 5 piano and level 8 technique after studying with Carlo for only one and a half years. He consistently encourages her to push her abilities so that she can expand her potential and grow.”

Saige H.

“I enjoy my performances and lessons with Carlo because he always makes me feel like I’m being challenged. He makes me feel proud and confident in my abilities and when I perform on stage. I want to become a piano teacher one day and inspire others with my music.”

Adult Student

“Carlo is passionate about music and teaching piano. As an adult learner who took a break from piano lessons for 45 years, I find Carlo’s approach to teaching both enjoyable and productive.”

Jaime V.

“Carlo truly cares about his students and consistently goes over and above as a piano teacher: he has been a mentor to my son, helping him with personal development, building confidence, and combating his shyness, as he navigates his teen years. We are truly blessed to have Carlo in our lives!”

Kimia S.

“I’ve been studying with Carlo since 2018 and his guidance has gone beyond elevating my piano skills by teaching me valuable life lessons. His effective practice methods and time management strategies have helped me become more disciplined and productive. Carlo’s support has been instrumental in my academic success. I am incredibly grateful for the mentorship and the lasting skills I’ve gained from my lessons with him.”

Anya L.

“Teacher Carlo has been my coach and mentor since 2017. I’ve developed in many areas as a musician, including improvisation, technique, and musicality in my time with him. Without exception Teacher Carlo truly has a special heart, inspiring and supporting me with his cheerful spirit and incredible attitude. He applies the virtues he teaches, inspiring others to achieve the same.”

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