Thomas Rheingans

Thomas Rheingans, an accomplished pianist, composer, and educator, is the visionary creator of the Piano Zen method. With a graduate degree in piano performance from the University of Illinois and over 25 years of experience, Thomas has dedicated his life to exploring music's transformative power.

As a concert pianist, Thomas has performed across the United States, captivating audiences with his expressive style. His compositions have enriched plays, musical theater, and independent films, showcasing his versatility.

Thomas's teaching career spans several colleges, where he taught classical piano, jazz, and music theory. However, it was in his private studio that he developed the revolutionary Piano Zen method, blending Eastern mindfulness practices with Western piano techniques.

The Piano Zen method is the result of Thomas’s 20-year journey, inspired by mindfulness and Eastern practices of mind and body balance such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation. This holistic approach nurtures both the mind and spirit, transforming the way students engage with music through a deeper, more meditative connection.

His novel, Piano Zen, brings the magical world of music and self-discovery to life for readers of all ages. Through his online Piano Zen courses, speaking engagements, and written works, Thomas continues to inspire pianists worldwide.

When not at the piano, Thomas enjoys hiking throughout the Pacific Northwest and meditating. At home, he shares a house filled with music, laughter, and harmony with his wife Amy—who loves experimenting with plant-based recipes—their children Jacqueline and Samuel, and their beloved pets: two dogs, Terra and Nova, and two cats, Ginger and Gemini.