Edmonton piano, violin teacher charged with sexual offences against 9-year-old student

CBC

2 days ago

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An Edmonton man who taught private music lessons has been charged with sexual assault and sexual interference against one of his young students.
Peter Burandt, 68, was arrested this week, with police saying Wednesday that a nine-year-old girl reported he sexually assaulted her on several occasions during piano lessons in his home.
The alleged incidents took place between February 2024 and June 2025, according to court information.
The Edmonton Police Service said Burandt has been teaching music lessons for two decades. Investigators believe there could be more alleged victims, and are asking anyone who may have information to contact police.
Burandt was previously publicly listed as a teacher at a south-side business that offers private music lessons, but on Wednesday afternoon, his profile on the school website was removed.
The owner of the school told CBC News that Burandt hasn't worked there for approximately seven years.
He has been released under conditions that include no contact or communication with anyone younger than 16, according to police.
Burandt is set to appear in court next month.
Several teachers or coaches have been charged with sexual offences involving children in recent months. That includes a former Edmonton Catholic Schools teacher facing child pornography offences who police believe has fled the country.
Zebra Child & Youth Advocacy Centre CEO Emmy Stuebing said cases of alleged abuse by someone in a position of authority over children tend to raise broader public concerns.
"When these situations arise, I know they can be scary for parents, but they can use it as a bit of a tool to help reinforce the flow of conversation and the opportunity to talk, to check in with your kids," she said.
"Let them know that as a parent or a safe caregiver, you're there to talk. And if someone is making them feel uncomfortable, or is hurting them, to talk to you."
Stuebing said it's important for adults to report concerns to authorities if a child discloses abuse.
"If we don't … we can't help with the services and support."