Keys & Strings Music Studio

It is a very rare occurrence that your musician will master his/her instrument by ONLY studying in a public school music program.   Public Group School Music educators have a daunting task in 4th grade to try and teach all different instruments to all different students with all different learning styles in a group setting.  I give them lots of credit! If you feel that your musician really does have a knack for an instrument, I recommend that you really consider private instruction. Just as you invest in their education through tutoring, or invest in their health by visiting the dentist twice a year...……...consider private instruction for their instrument a way to give them a leg up on the competition. Private instruction with the right educator will help your musician soar.    The right educator will observe your musician, and start to pick up cues on how to best teach your musician. Parents, Grandparents and other extended family members are important too.  Showing interest (

  M singing with joy at Recital 2023 In the intricate tapestry of life, each individual brings a unique set of strengths, challenges, and aspirations. For parents of children with special needs, nurturing their development and enhancing their quality of life often involves exploring unconventional avenues of learning and growth. Amidst this journey, music emerges as a powerful tool for fostering creativity, communication, and confidence. In this blog post, we explore the transformation brought about by music lessons on special needs children and how it can enrich their lives in profound ways. Promoting Sensory Integration    For children with sensory processing disorders or autism spectrum disorders, navigating the sensory world can be overwhelming. Music provides a structured yet flexible medium through which they can explore and regulate their sensory experiences. Whether through listening to melodies, feeling the vibrations of instruments, or engaging in rhythmic activities, music l

The Harmonious Journey: Why Every Young Musician Should Join an Ensemble Some ensemble members 2023 In the vibrant world of music, there exists a myriad of avenues for aspiring musicians to explore. From solo performances to studio recordings, the possibilities seem endless. However, amidst this diversity, one particular experience stands out as both enriching and invaluable: joining an ensemble. Whether it's a symphony orchestra, jazz band, chamber group, or choir, the benefits of participating in such a collective musical endeavor are manifold. In this blog post, we delve into why every young musician should consider becoming a part of an ensemble. Fiddle Day at Ms. Sandie and Mr. Jay's House  Collaborative Learning: One of the most significant advantages of joining an ensemble is the opportunity for collaborative learning. In a group setting, musicians learn to listen to each other, blend their sounds, and synchronize their playing. This fosters a sense of teamwork and mutua

Encouraging Your Child to Practice Their Instrument: A Parent's Guide As parents, we want the best for our children. We want them to excel in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities. One such activity that holds immense value is learning to play a musical instrument. Whether it's the piano, guitar, violin, or any other instrument, the benefits of musical education are plentiful. However, getting your child to practice their instrument consistently can sometimes feel like a challenge. In this blog post, we'll explore some effective strategies to encourage your child to practice their instrument with enthusiasm and dedication. 1. **Set Clear Goals**: Help your child set achievable short-term and long-term goals related to their musical journey. These goals could include mastering a particular piece, improving technical skills, or participating in a recital. Having clear objectives gives your child something to strive for and helps them stay motivated. 2. **Create a

G at his First PIano Lesson When I first started teaching, there was only one other music study business in the same town.  While the one I was managing (and teaching group classes) was classical in style, the other was more rock based.  This was in the late 80's.  Ironically the other business was started  by another educator from our studio.   In our area, the only other child geared activities were Little League Baseball.   We were able to offer $5 playdate classes for our students on school closure days.  We had a huge Halloween Costume Party, Holiday Party and Solo Recitals.  Studio picnic and Masterclasses.   As the years passed, I noticed that more children activities were starting to be offered.  Martial Arts, Soccer, Gymnastics, Art.  Travel Teams.  More tutoring franchises.  Dance, which was ballet and tap now had many more options. Lots of things to pull children and parents in many directions.  I eventually opened my own studio when my Mentor retired.   For a few years,

 First off, we get it.  School is out.....vacations are planned.  Camps make them tired.  They need down time.  WE UNDERSTAND ALL OF THAT.........but here is why it's not a great idea.  When children ignore their studies in any subject........it takes several days to several weeks to get back into the groove.  They may need a tutor, or extra help after school and at home.   Music is different.  It's just not focus.  It's losing comprehension of the music.  It's losing the fine motor skills that it takes to play  their chosen instrument.  Stamina.  It's almost like starting over.  Which can be frustrating for all involved.   I have seen many different scenarios.   Practice continued, but it was sporadic and rushed.  No lessons with their teacher.   Bad habits were created.  Songs learned incorrectly.  It can take weeks to unlearn and relearn bad habits.  On the other end, no practice at all.  Instrument collected dust.  Returned to lessons, but lost most of their ski