Ceren Su Şahin, DMA

Ceren Su Şahin, DMA, is an accomplished pianist, educator, and entrepreneur, widely recognized as the founder of Zagoda Olive Oil LLC and as a dedicated Staff Piano Teacher at the University of Michigan. She brings more than 25 years of experience as a pianist along with a deep foundation in piano pedagogy, having begun her musical training at the age of 4. Ceren teaches at the University of Michigan’s Piano Pedagogy Laboratory Program, offering group and private instruction focused on piano performance, music theory, sight reading, and ear training. Her academic journey includes undergraduate studies in Florida followed by graduate and doctoral degrees in Piano Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Michigan, where her doctoral research explored ergonomically scaled piano keyboards and their role in improving accessibility for women and children. She has participated in masterclasses, international music festivals, and an Erasmus exchange at the Chopin University of Music in Poland, enriching her artistic development and global perspective. In addition to her distinguished musical career, Ceren has emerged as an influential member of the Michigan small business community through her leadership of Zagoda Olive Oil LLC. Today the brand continues to grow steadily, with Ceren frequently presenting to culinary groups, professional associations, and entrepreneurial communities about the craft, production process, and cultural roots of her olive oil. She maintains strong ties to Turkey and travels there annually to remain closely connected to her family’s heritage and the traditions that shape the company’s products. Ceren’s professional involvement extends beyond teaching and entrepreneurship. She serves as Vice President of the Ann Arbor Piano Teachers Association and has earned multiple awards from piano competitions as well as recognition from the University of Michigan for her contributions to pedagogy. Known for her warmth, professionalism, and ability to inspire across disciplines, she continues to make meaningful contributions to both the musical and entrepreneurial landscapes. Outside of her work, she enjoys relaxing with video games, a favorite pastime that reflects her creative and playful spirit.