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 twenty five years of experience as a concert pianist along with a deep foundation in piano pedagogy, having begun her musical training at the age of four. Ceren teaches in both the University of Michigan’s collegiate and pre college programs, offering group and private instruction focused on reading, 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. Her transition into entrepreneurship was shaped by her time in Poland and the guidance of her family, ultimately inspiring her to establish the company three years ago. 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, especially Overcooked and The Sims, a favorite pastime that reflects her creative and playful spirit.

• University of Michigan - DMA
• University of Michigan MM
• Florida Gulf Coast University - BA
• Mimar Sinan University of Fine Arts - BA
• Chopin University of Music