The Piano Whisperer: Young Music Prodigy Maya Portella Schulz

Every so often, a young talent emerges—whether in music, art, movement, or innovation—whose gift feels bigger than their years. At just six years old, Maya Portella Schulz is one of those rare prodigies. Her piano playing doesn’t just impress—it captivates. With breathtaking precision, emotional depth, and an unmistakable sincerity, Maya’s music tells stories that resonate deeply. When she plays, you don’t just hear the notes—you experience a world shaped by wonder, joy, and pure heart.

At Junior Style, we believe storytelling takes many forms—fashion, photography, performance, and beyond. And perhaps the most powerful stories are those told by children who inspire their peers through passion and determination. Maya is one of those children.

Behind every young talent is often an unsung hero—a parent who spots the spark early and nurtures it with quiet dedication. In Maya’s case, her mother plays that role wholeheartedly, supporting her daughter’s dream with love, structure, and unwavering belief.

We had the privilege of speaking with both Maya and her devoted mum about music, childhood dreams, and the beautiful balance between talent and support. Their story is a heartfelt reminder of the magic that unfolds when a child is truly seen and supported.

This is just the beginning of Maya’s journey—but her name is one you won’t forget.

Take a moment to get to know Maya and follow her journey on Instagram—this is only the beginning.

 Hi Maya! Can you tell us a little about yourself and what’s been making you smile lately?

Hi! I’m Maya, and I’m six years old. Right now, the best thing is that my granddad is visiting us all the way from Europe! He’s here in Australia with me and Mum, and we’re having so much fun. We play games and eat pancakes together. It feels like sunshine.

What’s your very first memory of the piano? Was it love at first note?

Hmm… I was just a baby, so I don’t really remember. But there are videos of me playing and giggling on the piano when I was tiny. I still do that now—play and laugh at the same time! It’s like the piano is tickling me back.

Is there one song you could play on repeat forever and still love it just as much?

Yes! Prelude in C minor by Bach. It’s deep and kind of dramatic, but beautiful. It makes me feel powerful—like I’m telling a secret without using words.

 Do you like reading music or making up your own better?

Oh! I love making up my own songs. I started doing that when I was three. I imagine pictures in my head while I play—like stories with princesses and dragons or sometimes just the sound of rain.

How does it feel when you perform in front of people? Scary or exciting?

It feels like butterflies—but good ones! I get a little nervous at the start, but then I hear the first note, and it’s like the music takes my hand and says, “Let’s do this.” And when people clap? That’s my favorite part!

If your piano had a name and could talk, what would it say to you before a concert?

“Piano” would probably say, “Trust me. We’ve got this.” I think she’d [piano] be kind and wise—maybe a little cheeky too.

What do you do when something feels really, really hard?

I break it into little pieces. Then I play those pieces slowly—five perfect times in a row! That’s my superpower. The next day it’s like, “Hey! I can do this!” and I feel super proud.

What do you love besides music? What fills your days with fun?

I do Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and athletics—I’m super fast at running! Not so great at throwing though. I also write stories and ride my bike with Mum. And when it’s hot, we go swimming. Splashing around is the best.

When you play, do you imagine stories or feelings?

Always! Some songs feel like dreams. Others remind me of adventures or happy days. I love listening to my recordings in the car or right before bed—they help me remember how I felt when I played them.

What’s your biggest dream for the future?

I want to be a musician! I’ll play piano and guitar and sing—and maybe teach too. I want to help other kids find their music voice, like I found mine.

From Mum, With Love: A Parent’s View Behind the Scenes

Maya’s mother is a quiet powerhouse—balancing support, structure, and boundless love as she nurtures her daughter’s talent. We asked her to share more about what it’s like raising a young artist.

When did you first notice your daughter’s connection to music?
Maya has always been surrounded by music. From a very young age, she listened to melodies with fascination and attended baby music group classes. I knew something special was happening when she began to play lullabies by ear on the piano—songs she had only heard before bedtime. Even before taking formal lessons, she would “compose” her own little tunes. She started official piano lessons at just three years old, but her creativity had already taken root long before then.

Was the piano something she was naturally drawn to, or did you guide her toward it?
We had an electric piano at home, and I always encouraged her to explore it. The only rules were: no food or drinks near the piano, and clean hands before playing! As a baby, she was free to bang on the keys as much as she wanted—we could always turn the volume down! She also loved the pre-recorded music features and would listen to them over and over again, totally mesmerized by the melodies.

How do you support her passion while keeping things fun and lighthearted?
Maya has an amazing music community that keeps things exciting. Her lessons are full of creativity, with fun challenges, prizes to win, and themed concerts held three times a year—where kids even dress up! At home, we make practice playful with colorful flashcards, plush toys, and a little koala bear she clips to her clothes as a reward when she conquers a difficult section. It makes her giggle to think about where the koala might end up next—on her sleeve, her collar, even her socks!

Has there been a moment in her musical journey that moved or surprised you deeply?
Absolutely. I’ll never forget her first public performance. She was just four years old and had a memory slip mid-piece. She stopped and looked out at the audience—I braced myself, thinking she might cry or walk off stage. But instead, she paused calmly and then started over, as if nothing had happened. No tears, no panic, just composure. She’s naturally shy, but on stage, she transforms into this confident performer. Even now, it surprises me every time.

Does musical talent run in your family, or is Maya the first?
I played guitar as a child and taught myself a bit of piano, but Maya has far exceeded anything I imagined. I introduced music early on because I wanted her to have a way to express herself—but she’s taken that gift and made it her own.

How involved are you in her practice sessions? Do you guide her, or let her take the lead?
I still sit with her for about 90% of her practice time. It used to be 100%, so we’re making progress! I attend and sometimes film all her piano lessons so I can better understand how to help her at home. Even though she knows what to do, she likes having me next to her—whether it’s to rub her back, touch her hair, or give her a cuddle when she gets frustrated. Those little moments really help her reset and keep going.

How do you balance her musical training with school, rest, and play?
Maya practices every morning before school. After school, she switches gears and plays sports. Then, before dinner, she has quiet time—she showers and relaxes while I prepare the meal. Our schedule is tight, but she thrives on routine, so it works well for us.

How do you handle the attention that comes with early talent—from the media, teachers, or the public?
So far, it’s been a positive experience. Her school teachers are supportive and flexible when she needs time off for concerts or competitions. Journalists who have approached us have been kind and respectful, and the public is generally very encouraging. Of course, there are always comments about how things could be improved—this is classical music, after all, and perfection is elusive! I shield her from negative feedback and only share the positive messages. She can read, but I manage her social media exposure carefully. I never let her read comments unless I’ve checked them first.

That said, Maya is very sensitive when she feels her playing “bothers” others. It’s happened a couple of times in public spaces, and those moments have shaken her confidence for weeks. She’s still so young and vulnerable to discouragement.

What advice would you give to other parents who notice early talent in their child?
Find the right teacher—that’s the single most important thing. Surround your child with people who understand and support their journey. Music is an investment of time, energy, and money for the whole family. If your social circle doesn’t include other music-oriented families, it can feel isolating. But I believe this holds true for any activity pursued at a high level.

What do you hope she remembers most from this chapter of her life—beyond the music itself?
I hope she remembers that anything is possible with consistency, passion, and patience. I also hope that music remains a lifelong source of joy for her, whether she chooses to pursue it professionally or simply keeps it as a treasured hobby.

What are your thoughts on Junior Style?
I deeply admire Junior Style for its commitment to celebrating children and their talents. Kids have so much potential—we often underestimate what they’re capable of. By encouraging their interests early on, we help shape confident, curious, and creative individuals. I’m a big believer in supporting children’s education and development, and I truly value platforms like Junior Style that help them shine.

One to Watch — read more here