The Training

We focus on the skills that actually turn a beginner into a musician:

• Technical Literacy: Learning to read music on the page and understand theory so they aren’t just guessing at keys.

   

• Ear Training: Developing the ability to recognize rhythms and melodies—a core skill in our community’s musical tradition.

   

• The Discipline of Practice: We don’t just tell kids to practice; we show them how to do it. The focus required for piano carries over directly into better performance in math and reading.

   

Recitals: Students will prepare for 1–2 performances per year. It’s an opportunity for them to show the neighborhood what they’ve mastered.

Why We Start Here

• A Path to Private Lessons: This class is a “funnel.” We give kids the head start and the confidence they need to move into individual instruction when they’re ready.

   

• Closing the Gap: Music is a tool for academic success. We are committed to using this program to help our students close the achievement gap and develop the focus they need for school.
• Future Opportunities: We are building a pipeline. Whether they want a career in music or just a lifelong skill, we make sure our Black, Latino, and Indigenous students have the same access to high-level musical training as anyone else.

FAQs

Do we need a piano at home? No. We have the keyboards here for class. For home use, a standard electronic keyboard is fine. Don’t worry about buying a piano until you’re sure they’re committed to it long-term.

Does my child need to know how to read music? Nope. We start from scratch and teach them everything they need to know throughout the year.

What is the attendance policy? Consistency is everything. If a student misses more than three classes, they won’t be permitted to perform in the end-of-semester recitals.