Infant, Toddler & Pre-K Music Classes at the St Joseph Arts Academy

Dear SJAA Early Childhood families and friends,

Very happy to announce that classes are FINALLY READY & BEGINNING!

MUSIC PLAY (Ages 2-3 years) Six, 40-45min weekly sessions.  $99

Tuesdays 10 AM – “Music Play” Toddler music MORNING Class
BEGINS TOMORROW (Tuesday May 29).   

OR 

Tuesdays 530 PM – “Music Play” Toddler music EVENING Class
BEGINS June 6.

 

MUSIC & ME (Ages 12-23 months) Six, 30-40 min weekly sessions.  $99

Thursdays 530 PM – “Music & Me” Infant Music Class
BEGINS Thursday June 8 

OR

Saturdays 11 AM – “Music & Me” Infant Music Class
BEGINS Saturday June 10.  

 

THANK YOU to all who have registered and are READY to begin.  We are SUPER excited to have your families with us.

 

IT’S NOT TOO LATE.  We have a couple of spots still available for each or the classes if you have a friend or family member who would like to join you.

 

LIMITED SPACES available.  Easy to sign up.  Just call/text the office (816) 974-7656 or reply to this email.

 

These classes are simply some of the most important we can offer to our entire community.  Thank you for introducing your child to the cognitive, physical and emotional benefits of Music Play!

 

Looking forward to growing with your family!

jason and SJAA

 

 

PS. “SUPER MUSIC” for Ages 4-5 is coming soon and we are working on schedules now.  Stay Tuned!


Jason Riley
Director
St. Joseph Arts Academy
(816) 974-7656
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
www.stjosephartsacademy.com

The next sessions of our Early Childhood Music Classes are STARTING SOON!

Classes for Infant, Toddler and Pre-K…

NEXT ROUNDS begin:
7/13 – Music & Me (Ages 12-23 months)  Thursdays 530pm
7/15 – Music & Me (Ages 12-23 months)  Saturdays 11am
7/25 – Music Play (Ages 2-3 years) Tuesdays 10am OR 530pm
TBA – Super Music (Ages 4-5) is coming soon

They grow so fast and musical activities are some of the most important experiences we can offer them for whole brain development.

It’s easy to register!  Just reply to this email, message us on Facebook or Call/Text the SJAA at (816) 974-7656.

Limited Spaces Available.

Thank you for sharing the Academy with your friends and family!

Jason & SJAA

At the St. Joseph Arts Academy, early childhood music classes are designed to be fun and engaging for our littlest learners.

These classes provide an opportunity for children to explore and interact with music in a playful and enjoyable way. Through singing, dancing, and playing simple instruments, children can develop a love and appreciation for music while also reaping the benefits of early childhood music education.

These benefits include enhanced cognitive skills, improved social and emotional development, and a lifelong appreciation for music. The instructors at the St. Joseph Arts Academy are skilled in creating a welcoming and supportive environment that encourages children to participate and express themselves through music.

Overall, the fun early childhood music classes at the St. Joseph Arts Academy provide a valuable and enjoyable experience for young children while promoting their overall development

EARLY CHILDHOOD MUSIC CLASSES
FROM THE SJAA

For children 1 – 5 years old

Does your Little One LOVE Music? New Pre-K Music Classes forming!

Early Childhood Music

“Music & Me!” – 1 year

Music Play – 2-3 years

Super Music – 4-5 years

Register Today! Limited Spaces Available.
Message us here, email jason@stjosephartsacademy.com or call/text 816 974-7656

Wiggle, giggle, play, and learn with your little ones as they are introduced to the joy of music in this six week class.

 

Classes meet weekly for 45 minutes.

$99 for all six weeks!  Includes class supplies.

St. Joseph Arts Academy
2027 N. 36th Street
St. Joseph MO  64506
(816) 974-7656
info@stjosephartsacademy.com
www.stjosephartsacademy
Upcoming Dates

 

5/6 – Christine’s Graduation Celebration, PRIVATE 

5/7 – SJAA Chorale, NASCAR Kansas Speedway, 1pm

5/20 – Jada’s Graduation Party, 3-5pm PRIVATE

5/27 – Anna’s Graduation Party, 3-5pm PRIVATE

5/27- Anthony Glise’s “Missouri Fables”, 7 pm AKMA

5/30 – “Music Play” ages 2-3 begins, 6 weeks, 10 am

6/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $25 Gift Card

6/3 – AKMA Art Fair 10am-8pm  w/Brent Isom & Co.  11am

6/6 – “Music Play” ages 2-3 begins, 6 weeks, 5:30 pm

6/10 – Coleman Hawkins Blues & Jazz Festival, Downtown Gazebo, 2pm

6/11 – “Panorama” & “SJAA Showcase” Future Stages Festival 2023, 

Kauffman Center, Kansas City, MO 1pm & 330

6/11 – Roddy Barnes LIVE at SJAA, 3pm-  Free Will Donation

6/14 – SJAMTA Board Meeting TBA

7/4 – Happy Independence Day!  SJAA Closed.

7/11 – “Silver & Gold Banquet” Word of Life Church, 12pm

7/13 – Music & Me (Ages 12-23 months) begins, 6 weeks, Thursdays 530pm

7/15 – Music & Me (Ages 12-23 months) begins, 6 weeks, Saturdays 11am

7/25 – Music Play (Ages 2-3 years) Tuesdays 10am OR 530pm

8/20 – Imagine Eleven Back to School TBD

9/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $25 Gift Card

9/23 – Bluegrass Battles Hunger, Coleman Hawkins Park, TBA

10/14 – ”Photo Day @ SJAA”

11/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $25 Gift Card

12/25 – Merry Christmas!  SJAA Closed.

Copyright © 2023 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email as a valued member of the SJAA, Current, Future or Former! We send special updates, news and offers here! Thank you – SJAA

Our mailing address is:
St. Joseph Arts Academy

2027 N 36th St

Saint Joseph, MO 64506-2241

Pick-Up Notes – April Newsletter

Pick-Up Notes
The Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy
View this email in your browser
Dear Students & SJAA Families,

Learning to play music is a living, breathing process that begins with as the parent simply asking the child to play a song for you.

We are here if you need anything at all!

Thank you for the music,
jason and SJAA

Jason Riley – Director

jason@jasonriley.com
(816) 294-4856 cell
St. Joseph Arts Academy
www.stjosephartsacademy.com
(816) 974-SOLO (7656)
jason@stjosephartsacademy

Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
IN THIS MONTH’S NEWSLETTER…

Update from Director, Jason Riley

Important Upcoming Dates

SJAA NEWS

200th Student

We’re Going to Graceland!

New Students

… AND MORE!

Celebrations!

We’ve now reached over 200 students!  Welcome Grace D. to viola with Andrew.  We are rewarding Grace with a free month of lessons and some other fun stuff for registering as our 200th student!
SJAA Piano students performed in the 40th Annual Young Monster Concert at Missouri Western last month.  It was all hands on stage (and as many pianos as would fit) for a great day of piano ensemble playing.  A rare opportunity that only happens once a year.  Congrats to the students and studios of Darren and Jolie!

Congratulations to our very own, Quincy M!  1st Prize in Fine Arts Composition for the 2022 University of Missouri’s “Creating Original Music Project (COMP)”!
(See Below “Student of the Month”)

Academy and Community successes in the 2022 All-District Music Contests.  Extremely proud of the hard-work and dedication shown by SJAA students in preparing for and completing their annual musical evaluations.  Thanks to all the coaches you go the extra mile in helping them be prepared to do their best.  High-fives and Congratulations to…
Exemplary
Jack W.
Ella D.
Hadley C.
Hadley M.
Quincy M.

Outstanding
Carista L.
Evan L.

We’ve now reached over 25, 5-star Google reviews.  So, thank you to everybody that put in their reviews.  We so much appreciate it, but we want to get to 50 reviews.  If you haven’t yet, please consider going to Goggle, giving us a review.  We’d love your feedback and thank you so much again for helping us get over 25, 5-star Google reviews.  https://g.page/r/CZvsJULwejcCEAg/review

Other Big News!

Private lessons spots are limited with our amazing coaching faculty at the SJAA but we still have room to grow.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to the academy!

Guitar Mania! – Only a few spots left for the upcoming Intro to Guitar class, Monday nights at 7.  6 weekly, 50-minute sessions with instructor, Jason Riley

Art Start – Welcoming Miss Diana Herrera to our the SJAA team!  So excited to have Diana here with us heading up the recent and continuing “Clay Mania!” Classes.  Finally, some new Art Class options ahead for the spring and summer as well as some limited space for individualized, one-on-one, private art lessons with a great coach.  Welcome Diana!

Strings Summer Camp – Excited to announce that the SJAA will be hosting a week-long, summer camp for strings and orchestra players.  The camp will be from 10am-noon, July 11 – 15 and will conclude with a special performance.  Contact us for more information.  Limited spaces available.  Scholarship applications available too!  Camp Directors – Claire & Daniel Gerhardt!

Graceland – Academy Director, Jason Riley recently attended the national music academy conference at Graceland in Memphis, TN.  Music school owners from across the US and Canada meet up to take part in seminars, workshops and discussions about the families and students they serve (JUST LIKE YOU!).  The SJAA is in great company and leading in the field.  The SJAA received the “Faith Action Belief” Award in 2021 and 2022 based on our growth and the number of opportunities we provide our community.  “Uh… Thank you very much” – Elvis.

Behind the Desk – You might be seeing some new faces or hear some new voices behind the front desk or on the phone.  Big THANK YOU to Anna C. (And Ben) for stepping up to cover the desk while Alicia take her maternity leave.  Not a small job and lots to juggle.  Thanks for stepping up and doing a great job for us all.

NEW PRACTICE BUDDIES!
If you’re not familiar with it, we are always trying to improve time spent with our instruments, and being parents ourselves of young children, we know how it goes. The kids love stuffed animals. What do parents want? Parents want their kids to practice more. Of course, teachers want their students to practice more. What we’ve come up with is a new program called the “Practice Buddies”.
This is a flyer you’ll see with all the different Practice Buddies, but basically the way it works is this is all free for you, our students. After your child passes their first book test, they get their Practice Buddy of their choice. They come to the lobby, they can take the one they want, and the concept is they take it home, they bring it to lessons. At home, one of the tip for you parents is say, “Hey, go get your Practice Buddy. They’re going to be sad if you don’t play for them, go and play.” But, we’re really excited about this. I think it’s really going to motivate the kids to practice even more and get better at learning music.

Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.

It continues to be safety first around here.  Unvaccinated SJAA members are encouraged to remain in masks.  Our waiting areas are technically still “closed” for the time being and we remain diligent in our cleaning schedules and protocols.  The SJAA is dedicated to making any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.  Stay home and request a virtual lesson if you are sick or quarantined.

Welcome to our Newest Students!

Blaze, Edgar, Braxtyn, Nicolas, Holly, Julie, Monica, Hope, Bauer, Wyatt, Zavan, Ranier, Ray, Alex, Evvie, Layton, Carter, Alice, Traeh, Breesa, Olivia, Kaden & Dylan!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our April “Student of the Month” is

Quincy M!


We are so lucky to have Quincy and his family with us at the SJAA.
Congratulations to our very own, Quincy M!  1st Prize in Fine Arts Composition for the 2022 University of Missouri’s “Creating Original Music Project (COMP)”!

From Quincy on his Composition…

“My piece is titled, “The March of the Cornstalks and the Soybean King of Westphalia,” and I’ll be the first to admit it is a bit of a mouthful. Many might hope to find the deeper meaning behind this piece, but I really wanted to focus on the visual element of the composition. I tried to imagine myself somewhere, and write down my consciousness onto the staff paper.

The first movement, titled, “The March of the Cornstalks,” is very militant-sounding.  If you’ve ever walked into a cornfield and become lost, you can imagine a cornstalk army.  Each cornstalk towers over you ominously and you run in each direction, but it all seems the same.  You are being pursued.

The second movement is melancholy, titled, “In the Court of the Soybean King.” Continuing on an agricultural journey, perhaps in my thinking this is connected to “In the Hall of the Mountain King” and “In the Court of the Crimson King.”  I visualize tiptoeing through a majestic castle to steal a crown from the “Soybean King.”  Throughout, there are interesting harmonies and repeated patterns in the bass, contrasting with changing intervals.

The last movement is titled, “Westphalia.” Westphalia is a region in Germany, and although I know very little about this place, seeing images of the spectacular rolling green hills is where I got the idea for this closing movement. Using sweeping arpeggios and Bach-esque runs, it offers the listener a chance to reflect on the journey of the music and the movements, envisioning a bright future ahead.”

Quincy is a Junior at East Buchanan High School. He has been involved with music for his entire life, an upbringing by his musical parents that has cemented his passion and appreciation for everything music. He is a multi-instrumentalist, first learning the piano at a young age and eventually branching out onto the drums, bass guitar, guitar, and now the upright bass. Quincy first started composing in early elementary school with the use of many simple compositional programs such as Garageband. Ever since then, he has had a love for producing and an innate want to understand how instruments interact and build on one another through the use of Digital Audio Workstations. He has plenty of experience being a live musician, playing with many of his classmates from band and community members, forging long-lasting relationships that continue to fuel his passions to this day. Quincy hopes to expand his musical horizons and songwriting abilities going forward, focusing on appreciating all different genres of music as well as being the most versatile and well-rounded musician he can possibly be. He plans to attend college in the future, majoring in either music composition or music technology.

Very proud of you Quincy!  Can’t wait to see and hear what you do next.

Quincy has studied theory and composition with Dr. Nawrot and String Bass with Mr. Holmes (and attended our recent “Songwriting Festival” where he was a great help to the younger writers.)
We could go on and on…

We’ll celebrate Quincy with an Amazon gift card!

Thank you, Quincy for referring your friends and family to the Academy.

Congratulations!!!

To be considered for Student of the Month, be sure to talk to your teacher about all your musical and extracurricular activities, share pictures and refer your fellow musicians to the academy.

“Everybunny” loves music. Happy Easter from the SJAA!!!

Updated Calendar
4/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $50 Gift Card

4/3-5 – Music Academy Conference, Graceland, Memphis TN

4/7 – “UKE-Box Heroes” Thursdays, Intro to Guitar Class begins 7pm – 5 week

4/11 – “Guitar Mania” Mondays, Intro to Guitar Class begins 7pm – 6 weeks

4/19 – “Clay Mania” Tuesdays, Sculpture Art Class continues 530pm – 6 weeks

4/23 – SJAMTA Evaluative Auditions, Potter Hall MWSU

4/24 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

– 3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian

4/26 – “Super Art” Tuesdays, Class begins 7pm – 6 weeks
5/14 – “Music Play” Saturdays, 11am begins 6 weeks (ages 2-4)
6/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $50 Gift Card

6/11 – “Hawkfest” Blues & Jazz Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, 3-3:45pm

7/4 – Happy Independence Day!  SJAA Closed.

7/11-15 – Summer Orchestra Camp, 10am-12pm Daily

7/12 – “Silver & Gold Banquet” Word of Life Church, 12pm

SJAA Specific Recitals in BOLD

Auto-Payments

Thanks to all for registering for convenient auto-drafting from credit cards or your bank account.  So glad to be able to offer this for our families.

https://stjosephartsacademy.com/auto-payment-authorization/

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $98

Lesson Policy
– Is here and copies are at the studio…
https://stjosephartsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/SJAA-Lesson-Policy-2022-PDF.pdf

Thank you for reading -“Pick-Up Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
It’s Always a great month and they go by so fast!

Thank you for encouraging the advancing musicians in your life and in our community.

We are making the world a better place through music.

Here’s to YOUR music success!

Jason Riley
Director
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
8162944856 (personal cell)
Here to help! Call or text if you need anything at all.

{| o }===:::
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Referral Program – We have a great family of students and teachers at the SJAA.  We are extremely discerning in selecting the very best coaches and students when growing our family.  We want great students just like you.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to be a part of our SJAA family.

Refer a friend or a family member to the SJAA for private lessons and we’ll give you a $25 gift card.

Share referral cards with your friends/family as a GIFT FROM YOU and they’ll get FREE registration ($35.00) and their First Lesson FREE ($24.50) when they register for lessons. ($59.50 Value!)

AND… you’ll both be registered for the monthly referral contest for a chance to with a $50 Amazon Gift Card.

AND… we’ll give you a $25 gift card for sharing the SJAA with your friends and family.

They WIN, you WIN and the SJAA WINS another great student JUST LIKE YOU!

Thank you for sharing the SJAA with your friends and family!

Does Your Teacher Have Openings?

Andrew –
Brent –
Claire –
Dan – Monday ONE SPOT LEFT
Darren – Wednesday ONE SPOT LEFT, Thursday ONE SPOT LEFT
Emily – Monday ONE SPOT LEFT, Saturday ONE SPOT LEFT
Frank – Wednesdays ONE SPOT LEFT
Isaiah – Monday ONE SPOT LEFT, Thursday ONE SPOT LEFT
Jason –
Jolie –
Marina – Monday ONE SPOT LEFT, Thursday ONE SPOT LEFT, Friday ONE SPOT LEFT
Mary Jo – Virtual spots available.
Monica – Monday ONE SPOTS LEFT, OPENING NEW DAY SOON
(limited spaces available)
Sara – OPENING NEW DAY SOON
(limited spaces available)
Terry –
Tyler – Thursday ONE SPOT LEFT

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Private music lessons in Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Ukulele, Drums, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric Bass, Trumpet, Strings,  Early Childhood Classes, Group Guitar, Group Ukulele. Art Classes, Online Music Lessons & Adult Art Classes.

We also offer…
Discounts on music books & accessories, instrument rentals and rental space for birthday parties and special events.

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://app.teacherzone.com

Free Wi-Fi – SJAA password “MusicAccomplished”

Academy Mission

Our mission at the St. Joseph Arts Academy is to provide the highest quality musical instruction and performance opportunities to beginning and advancing students in the Midland empire. We use our patience, enthusiasm and loyalty to encourage, inform and inspire others to happily share their skill and talent in love and gratitude to make the world a better place.

OUR MOTTO…

Music Accomplished!

Copyright © 2022 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.

The Write Notes – October/November (Double Issue)

Dear Students & SJAA Families,Did you have a good Turkey Day?!

Thanksgiving is just the best and we definitely have a lot to be thankful for here.

Grateful to make and share music with our friends.  Thankful for our amazing SJAA team, coaches, mentors, teachers, staff, families and OUR STUDENTS!

It’s been an amazing fall with lots of positive activity here.  Always lots of opportunities and fun things going at the Academy.

Thanks for a few minutes to catch up on what we’ve been up to, some important info and some cool things ahead.

Wishing you and your family the very best in a safe and warm holiday season.

We are here if you need anything at all!

Thank you for the music,
jason and SJAA
Jason Riley – Director

jason@jasonriley.com
(816) 294-4856 cell
St. Joseph Arts Academy
www.stjosephartsacademy.com
(816) 974-SOLO (7656)
jason@stjosephartsacademy

 

Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
SJAA NEWS!
Welcoming Alicia! – Please welcome our new administrator, front-of-house and all-around-taking-care-of-us-er, Mrs. Alicia Reyes!!  She’s just started with the Academyin late October and we are very happy to have Alicia on our team.  She’s here to help students, families, teachers and our entire membership with almost anything they need for a great experience at the SJAA.  Welcome, Alicia!!

Photo Day @ the SJAA – We had a great “student appreciation day” in October including a free photo sitting with Tyler Osborn Studios.  The results were simply stunning.  Photo packages are on their way and will be ready for pick up THIS WEEK!  It’s still not too late to order (we were late to this first order ourselves but looking forward to a new batch of amazing photography for our walls).

Fall Referral Contest – We are tallying the results from the November referral contest.  Referring and referred families have a chance to win $100 amazon gift card!  WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON!  The Academy is growing and we want great students JUST LIKE YOU.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to the SJAA.

Need a Stocking Stuffer? – BIG DISCOUNTS on in-stock books and musical accessories through the holidays.  (Some items up to 50% off!)  Or need something specific?  Not too late to order some items in time for Christmas AND we’ll discount them for the holidays for SJAA members too!

Upcoming Classes – New classes will be coming in the new year.  Stay tuned for the upcoming schedule for early childhood music, art classes, guitar and uke intros and more.

“Stuff the Stocking”  – (New Student/Instrument Promotion) Stuff the stocking with music lessons or art classes this year!  Get your loved one a special gift by registering them for lessons.  Save $85.00 with this one time a year special and we’ll prepare a special gift stocking to include: One month of lessons, $25 music retail gift certificates, holiday candy, custom practice notebook, instrument specific goodies (drumsticks for drummers, snark tuners for guitar players, pencil/pastel set for art, etc) and a $35 registration voucher.  And, we can ship or deliver to you for FREE!

Value: $184.  Your Cost:  ONLY $99!  It’s easy to get yours.  Call or text the academyat (816) 974-7656 or email jason@stjosephartsacademy.com.  Or fill out this quick form and mention the stocking promotion: https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com/requesti-info  We’ll take care of the rest.  Merry Christmas!

Limited availability.

Bi-Annual Survey – If you missed our Bi-Annual Membership Survey, it’s not too late to take it here.
Your feedback is extremely important too us.  We want to be the very best we can be so we can serve our students at the highest level.

Songwriting Festival – Our second annual Songwriting Festival included a day-long clinic with award-winning, professional songwriting, Lori Browne.  We had 16 new writers from ages 8-19 who participated fully, working alone and in concert to create their very own music.  AND lunch was provided by Gina’s Cafe and Catering!  This immersive songwriting experience was free to our students ($97 Value).

“Mall-a-Thon” – Join the music students and teachers of the St. Joseph Area Music Teachers Association for their annual holiday concerts at East Hills Mall.  Free and open to the public.
Saturday December 11.  SJAA musicians perform at 11am!

Shop St. Joe – SJAA is participating in the Chamber of Commerce “Shop St. Joe” promotion again this year!  Make sure you pick up your tickets from your teacher or Alicia at the front desk.  We’d love it if one of our academy families won the $10,000 prize!

Celebrations!

News Flash! – Jack Wing and Hadley Miller made the All-District Orchestra in Kansas City.
Jack has made All-District for 4 consecutive years. This is Hadley’s second consecutive year. Great students from great families. Congrats to the Studio of Mr. Brock!

“Mall-o-Ween” – SJAA students joined students of the St Joseph Area Music Teachers Association for their 2nd annual “Mall-o-Ween” in Oct. at East Hills.  It was “Boo Blast” filled with great music from our advancing musicians.

“School of Rock” – Congratulations to all of our members who were selected for the October RRT production of “School of Rock!” Awesome watching you rock out in this great production at the Missouri Theater.
Lilly C., Ashlyn F., Lincoln D., Alayna P., Mista V., Alevia B., Aliana R. and Jude M. Super proud of you all!

“Mamma Mia” – Congratulations to our SJAA students and Faculty and to our friends in the amazing cast and crew in Central’s production of “Mamma Mia” in November! Brent I., Alex R. (guitars), Brett C. (percussion), Ashlyn F (Tanya), Payton C., Anna C., & Nehir B. (ensemble) So much fun and everyone looked and sounded so great!

Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.

It continues to be safety first around here.  Unvaccinated SJAA members are encouraged to remain in masks.  Our waiting areas are technically still “closed” for the time being and we remain diligent in our cleaning schedules and protocols.  The SJAA is dedicated to making any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.  Stay home and request a virtual lesson if you are sick or quarantined.

Welcome to our Newest Students!

William, Robert, Whitney, Grace, Daisy, Quincy, Brooklyn, Cris, Kason, Anna, Whitney, Silas, Ever, Sarah, Ira, Elaina, Finley, Roman, Ellie, John, Summer, Kyrie, Jeromey, Natalee & Tara!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our October/November “Student(s) of the Month” are

Hudson & Felicity M.!


We are so lucky to have Hudson, Felicity and their family with us at the SJAA.

They enjoy spending time with family and traveling as a family, spending time our doors and activities like biking and swimming.  They attend Oak Grove Elementary where they enjoy music class with Mrs. Riley and their mom, Dr. Moore also teachers.  (Dr. Moore gives us lots of support here as well pitching in as a guest violin coach!)

Hudson is in 5th grade and Felicity is in 2nd.

Hudson studies guitar w/Mr. Riley (and attended our recent “Songwriting Festival”) and Felicity studies violin w/Mr. Brock.  Both Brother and Sister play piano as well.

We could go on and on…

We’ll celebrate them with an Amazon gift card for both!

Thank you, Hudson and Felicity for referring your friends and family to the Academy.

Congratulations!!!

To be considered for Student of the Month, be sure to talk to your teacher about all your musical and extracurricular activities, share pictures and refer your fellow musicians to the academy.

Early photo of the Beatles.  (Before they were BIG!)
Updated Calendar
10/17 – Student Appreciation!  Photo Day @ SJAA, 1-6pm

10/23 –  “Mall-o-ween” East Hills Mall, Halloween-themed SJAMTA student recital, 2pm

10/23-24 – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”

 

11/10 – 2021 Shop St. Joseph program kicking off 

11/13 – SJAA 2nd Annual Songwriting Festival, Songwriting Clinic w/Lori Browne, 9am-5pm

11/14 – SJAMTA Patriotic-themed student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

11/25 – Happy Thanksgiving – SJAA closed.

 

12/11 – “Mall-a-thon” 10am-4pm at East Hills Mall

12/25 – Merry Christmas – SJAA closed.

 

2022

1/1 – Happy New Year – SJAA closed.

 

2/12 – TBA SJAMTA Monster Concert

 

3/13 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm – Clinic, 3pm TBA

 

4/3-5 – Music Academy Conference, Graceland, Memphis TN

4/23 – SJAMTA Evaluative Auditions, Potter Hall MWSU

4/24 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

– 3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian

 

SJAA Specific Recitals in BOLD

Auto-Payments

Thanks to all for registering for convenient auto-drafting from credit cards or your bank account.  So glad to be able to offer this for our families.

http://stjosephartsacademy.com/auto-payment-authorization/

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $96

Lesson Policy
– Is here and copies are at the studio…
http://stjosephartsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/SJAA-Lesson-Policy-19.pdf

Thank you for reading -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
It’s Always a great month and they go by so fast!

Thank you for encouraging the advancing musicians in your life and in our community.

We are making the world a better place through music.

Here’s to YOUR music success!

Jason Riley
Director
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
8162944856 (personal cell)
Here to help! Call or text if you need anything at all.

{| o }===:::
Facebook
Website
Instagram
Referral Program – We have a great family of students and teachers at the SJAA.  We are extremely discerning in selecting the very best coaches and students when growing our family.  We want great students just like you.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to be a part of our SJAA family.

Does Your Teacher Have Openings?

Andrew – Tuesdays ONE SPOT LEFT
Brent – Tuesday TWO SPOTS LEFT
Claire – Tuesday ONE SPOT LEFT Friday ONE SPOT LEFT
Dan – SOLD OUT
Darren – Wednesday TWO SPOTS LEFT, Thursday ONE SPOT LEFT
Emily – Monday TWO SPOTS LEFT, Saturday ONE SPOT LEFT
Frank – Wednesdays ONE SPOT LEFT
Isaiah – Monday TWO SPOTS LEFT
Jason – SOLD OUT
Jolie – SOLD OUT
Marina – Friday ONE SPOT LEFT
Mary Jo – Virtual spots available.
Monica – Monday TWO SPOTS LEFT
Terry – SOLD OUT
Tyler – Tuesday ONE SPOT LEFT, Friday ONE SPOT LEFT

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Private music lessons in Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Ukulele, Drums, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric Bass, Trumpet, Strings,  Early Childhood Classes, Group Guitar, Group Ukulele. Art Classes, Online Music Lessons & Adult Art Classes.

We also offer…
Discounts on music books & accessories, instrument rentals and rental space for birthday parties and special events.

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://app.teacherzone.com

Free Wi-Fi – SJAA password “MusicAccomplished”

Academy Mission

Our mission at the St. Joseph Arts Academy is to provide the highest quality musical instruction and performance opportunities to beginning and advancing students in the Midland empire. We use our patience, enthusiasm and loyalty to encourage, inform and inspire others to happily share their skill and talent in love and gratitude to make the world a better place.

OUR MOTTO…

Music Accomplished!

Copyright © 2021 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email as part of the SJAA family.

Our mailing address is:

St. Joseph Arts Academy

2027 N 36th St

Saint Joseph, MO 64506-2241

The Write Notes – August 2021

Dear Students & SJAA Families,Ring the Bell!  School is in.

We’ve had a great summer and hope you did too.

Even though school has started, we are finishing out our summer performance season with some great events in September.  “Hawkfest” & “Bluegrass Battles Hunger” are just a couple of the special invitations remaining for live music from our advancing musicians outdoors.
Lots of info below so thanks for the time to catch up and check it out.  As always, here for you if you have questions, concerns or need anything at all.

Best with all “Back to School”!

Wishing each a safe, happy and healthy school year with lots of growth and learning.

Thank You!

jason and SJAA
Jason Riley – Director

jason@jasonriley.com
(816) 294-4856 cell
St. Joseph Arts Academy
www.stjosephartsacademy.com
(816) 974-SOLO (7656)
jason@stjosephartsacademy

 

Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
SJAA NEWS!
New & Improvements:  We’ve recently added more security cameras across the academy.  The safety of everyone in our building is our top priority and we’ll continue to add and provide the very best we can.  We also added a big screen to our class room for powerpoint presentations, announcements, movie nights or Karaoke showdowns!

Thank You!:  Big THANK YOU to all of our guest instructors (Dr. Moore, Mr. DeClue, Ms. Jenkins, Mr. McCuthceon, Mr. Bliss and Maestro Glise) who stepped up to help as teachers take personal, family or medical leaves this last month.  It’s been awesome to have such amazing musicians and coaches to lean on when we need them.  Thanks to the students and families who made them at home.  We all benefit from having an amazing team working with all hands, eyes and ears on deck.

Welcome Back: Welcome home to our own, Isaiah Sterling who’s been away touring the summer with the Cavaliers of Drum Corp International fame.  His studio filled up very quickly.  Happy to have him back to us and can’t wait to hear about the adventures in drumming.

Steam to S.T.E.A.M (Celebrating the Missouri Bicentennial) – Academy students recently performed in celebration of the MO Bicentennial at Civic Center Park.  It was an amazing set of music from nearly 20 student performers.  Music included featured vocal, guitar and violin performances.  AND… ensemble performances of classic fiddle tunes, group ukuleles and a debut of our rendition of “Dust in the Wind”.  A very special opportunity that only comes around every 200 years!  Happy Birthday, Missouri!

“Maestro Series” featuring Anthony Glise – An honor to be able to present our annual “Maestro Series” this summer with one of the greats in “Maestro” Anthony Glise.  Truly an “Inform-ance” with a presentation of his historical instrument collection including Baroque Guitar, Arch-Lute and more.  We had a packed house for this free presentation.  Anthony also worked with select academy students in a Masterclass setting for levels beginning to advanced.  An amazing day at the SJAA!

Celebrations!

It’s a Girl! – Congratulations to Emily and Daniel on the addition of the sweetest Miss Kathryn to their family.  All are safe and well and bonding quickly.  So happy for each of you.

July Practice Challenge! – Congratulations to Aliza Michel, Grand Prize Winner of our summer practice challenge.  With a grand total of over 94 practice hours in July!!!  Aliza studies guitar, piano and voice and is loving writing and performing her own music.  Way to go!  We’ll reward Aliza with a $50 Gift Card for her dedicated practice and major achievement.

School of Rock – Congratulations to all of our members who were selected for the upcoming RRT production of “School of Rock!”  Really looking forward to watching you rock out in this great production at the Missouri Theater this fall.

Lilly C., Ashlyn F., Lincoln D., Alayna P.,  Mista V., Alevia B., Aliana R. and Jude M.  Super proud of you all!

For Tickets – https://rrtstjoe.org/school-of-rock?fbclid=IwAR3TcksDMMuRAt1SsUOwvyaoORCBUkTERFiHxh8G56IzsZ9qjDw4t4oeWCQ

Teacher Appreciation Breakfast – Fun to celebrate our amazing teachers last month with an impromptu Burrito Breakfast at the Academy.  Thanks to Taco John’s for helping us recognize their hard work and dedication.  Thank you music mentors, teachers and coaches for all you do.

Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.

It continues to be safety first around here.  Unvaccinated SJAA members are encouraged to remain in masks.  Our waiting areas are technically still “closed” for the time being and we remain diligent in our cleaning schedules and protocols.  The SJAA is dedicated to making any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.  Stay home and request a virtual lesson if you are sick or quarantined.

Welcome to our Newest Students!

Max, Charlie, Noah, Jaycee, Grace, Parker, Mary Caroline, Paxton, Benoit, Lincoln, Isaac, Oliver, Jaxson, Ted, Brianna, Aeva, Adam, Elise, Anna, Hannah, Nehir, Kelley, Nikolai & Arienne!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our August “Student of the Month” is…

Alex H.!


We are so lucky to have Alex and his family with us at the SJAA.

Besides his violin lessons w/Mr. Brock (celebrating 2 years in October),

Alex is an only child (who loves his dog), he’s in the SJSD Gifted & Talented Program and enjoys collecting Pokémon cards and playing Fortnite & Destiny 2.  Alex is also a big fan of classical music.

We could go on and on…

We’ll celebrate Alex with an Amazon gift card for him!

Thank you, Alex for referring your friends and family to the Academy.

Congratulations!!!

To be considered for Student of the Month, be sure to talk to your teacher about all your musical and extracurricular activities, share pictures and refer your fellow musicians to the academy.

Early photo of the Beatles.  (Before they were BIG!)
Updated Calendar
9/7 – “Guitar Mania” begins 6pm – 6 weeks

9/7 – “Uke Box Heroes” begins 7pm – 6 weeks

9/18 – “Hawkfest” Blues & Jazz Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, 130pm

9/19 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

– Jessica Koebe, Presenting on performance anxiety, 3pm

9/25 – “Bluegrass Battles Hunger”, Coleman Hawkins Park, 3pm

 

10/17 – Student Appreciation!  Photo Day @ SJAA, 1-6pm

10/23 –  “Mall-o-ween” East Hills Mall, Halloween-themed SJAMTA student recital, 2pm

10/23-24 – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”

10/28 – Class Guitar begins – 4 weeks

10/28 – TBA class begins – 4 weeks

 

11/12-14 – SJAA 2nd Annual Songwriting Festival, Songwriting Clinic w/Lori Browne

11/14 – SJAMTA Patriotic-themed student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

11/25 – Happy Thanksgiving – SJAA closed.

 

12/11 – “Mall-a-thon” 10am-4pm at East Hills Mall

12/25 – Merry Christmas – SJAA closed.

 

2022

1/1 – Happy New Year – SJAA closed.

 

2/12 – TBA SJAMTA Monster Concert

 

3/13 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm – Clinic, 3pm TBA

 

4/3-5 – Music Academy Conference, Graceland, Memphis TN

4/23 – SJAMTA Evaluative Auditions, Potter Hall MWSU

4/24 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

– 3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian

 

SJAA Specific Recitals in BOLD

Auto-Payments

Thanks to all for registering for convenient auto-drafting from credit cards or your bank account.  So glad to be able to offer this for our families.

https://stjosephartsacademy.com/auto-payment-authorization/

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $96

Lesson Policy
– Is here and copies are at the studio…
https://stjosephartsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/SJAA-Lesson-Policy-19.pdf

Thank you for reading -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
It’s been a great month.

Thank you for encouraging the advancing musicians in your life and in our community.

We are making the world a better place through music.

Here’s to YOUR music success!

Jason Riley
Director
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
8162944856 (personal cell)
Here to help! Call or text if you need anything at all.

{| o }===:::
Facebook
Website
Instagram
Referral Program – We have a great family of students and teachers at the SJAA.  We are extremely discerning in selecting the very best coaches and students when growing our family.  We want great students just like you.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to be a part of our SJAA family.

Does Your Teacher Have Openings?

Andrew – Tuesdays 2 & 6
Brent – Thursday 6
Claire – Monday 630, Tuesday 6
Dan – Wednesdays 330 and 7
Darren – Wednesday 430, Thursday 330
Emily – Welcome Back!
Frank – Wednesdays 4 and 5
Isaiah – Tuesday 8
Jason – Full
Jolie – Full
Josh – Monday 5
Marina – Friday 430
Mary Jo – Tuesday 330 & 630
Monica – Thursday – 4 & 530
Terry – Full
Tyler – Friday 330 & 6

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Ukulele, Drums, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric Bass, Trumpet, Strings,  Early Childhood, Group Guitar, Group Ukulele. Art Classes, Online Music Lessons & Adult Art Classes.

We also offer…
Discounts on music books & accessories, instrument rentals and rental space for birthday parties and special events.

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://app.teacherzone.com

Free Wi-Fi – SJAA password “MusicAccomplished”

Academy Mission

Our mission at the St. Joseph Arts Academy is to provide the highest quality musical instruction and performance opportunities to beginning and advancing students in the Midland empire. We use our patience, enthusiasm and loyalty to encourage, inform and inspire others to happily share their skill and talent in love and gratitude to make the world a better place.

OUR MOTTO…

Music Accomplished!

Copyright © 2021 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.

Maestro Series 2021 – Anthony Glise

Music lessons in st joseph mo violin lessons guitar lessons near me
Music lessons in st joseph mo violin lessons guitar lessons near me

Saturday, August 14, from 2:00-4:00 PM

St. Joseph Arts Academy

2027 N. 36th St., 

St. Joseph, Missouri

—————————

The St. Joseph Arts Academy in association with the St. Joseph Music Foundation will present an “informance” (a combination of lecture and performance) and a masterclass by internationally acclaimed classical guitarist, Anthony Glise as part of the Academy’s “Maestro Series.”

Targeted to all age groups including non-musicians, Glise will discuss the history of the guitar from 1400 to today and perform on various historical instruments from his private collection, including a Renaissance lute, Baroque guitar, 18th-century archlute, 19th-century guitar, and the modern guitar.

The informance is based on Glise’s university textbook, “The Guitar in History and Performance Practice” which is used in hundreds of universities worldwide.

For the second part of the event, attendees are welcome to bring their instruments for a free informal coaching session following the historical presentation.

A St. Joseph native, Glise has earned nine diplomas from seven countries, recorded 11 CDs, and published over 90 editions of music and books. As a composer, he is also the only non-French elected to the French Film Commission which negotiates contracts between composers and European film producers.

Glise has performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and many of the leading concert halls in the US and Europe. For the last 30 years, he has directed 14 international music festivals and taught at universities and conservatories throughout the US, Italy, Germany, Austria, and France, where he currently lives and holds a professorship at a state music school north of Paris.

The back-to-back events will be held at the St. Joseph Arts Academy, 2027 N. 36th St., Saturday, August 14, from 2:00-4:00. The events are free and open to the public.

For further information, contact The St. Joseph Arts Academy at (816) 974-7576.  

The Write Notes – July 2021

The Write Notes
The Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy
View this email in your browser
Dear Students & SJAA Families,We insist that you are having a great summer!

It’s a wild ride here with families in and out for vacations and making great memories.  Much deserved after “the year that shall not be named” here.

Teachers are working hard for fluid schedules, creating make-up opportunities and giving lots of motivation for extra summer inspiration and activities for our students.

I’ve heard it said many times that the “Roaring 20’s” was a by-product of the Spanish Flu Pandemic in 1918.  Many suggest we are about to experience something similar this century.

I can tell you that Small Business Administration has labeled Music Academies like the SJAA as “hard hit” like so many other businesses in 2020.

Thanks to our amazing families, dedicated students and team “par excellence” here, the SJAA held steady.  We faced our challenges together.  Some unique.  Many similar to other families and businesses around the world.

We all definitely have some shared experiences.  Not all great.  But for sure, some positives.

Out of safety and respect for all concerned, we proceed with care and continued caution.

Happy to say that the Academy is really growing again.  All of our teachers are back under one roof (though online lessons remain and are a great options for many).

If what they say is true, we are already feeling the effects of the new “Roaring 20’s”.

Live music, concerts and In-person events are returning (most with caution, some not so much).

Back to School
Our studios and teachers schedules are filling.  We’ll continue to offer all kinds of specialty classes and clinics but private music lessons times are getting limited.  We want to be able to serve our membership at the highest level.  Students JUST LIKE YOURS.

If you, your friends or family are looking to get back in for “Back to School” sessions, the TIME IS NOW to reserve your spot.

The word is out.  The SJAA is doing something special.  That’s why we are here.

We want that to be why your family is with us.

Looking forward to some “Roaring 20’s” with your family, friends, our community as a whole.

It’s an exciting time and can’t wait to make some new memories moving forward.

Lots of info below so thanks for the time to catch up and check it out.  As always, here for you if you have questions, concerns or need anything at all.

Have a happy and safe summer of 2021.

Thank You!

jason and SJAA
Jason Riley – Director

jason@jasonriley.com
(816) 294-4856 cell
St. Joseph Arts Academy
www.stjosephartsacademy.com
(816) 974-SOLO (7656)
jason@stjosephartsacademy

 

Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
SJAA NEWS!
Welcome to our new teachers! – Welcoming Mrs. Claire Gerhardt (strings) and Mr. Joe McCutcheon (percussion) to our SJAA family.  Great to have you with us and hope you are feeling at home.
Final improvements:  Excited to announce we are on the final leg of our major building improvements at the SJAA.  Landscaping, water proofing and electrical is all now in place.  We’ll add the AV system in the class room and more in place very soon.  Thank you for rolling with every punch along the way.

Giving Back – Our very own, Bianca is helping raise money for the Horse Hospice, a program for disabled horses at the Albee Farm. Look for the donation jar around the academy to drop a little change in. Let’s make it Jingle! Folding Money also accepted! Thank you for your support.

4th of July Treats – Big “THANK YOU” to our SJAA Granny for coordinating “Treat Week” in advance of Independence Day. Lots of work and lots of love in helping our academy students celebrate America’s Birthday. “Music sets us Free”.
Thank you!

Celebrations!

Congratulations to SJAMTA Enrichment Grant Recipient… Hadley M! Hadley studies violin with Mr. Brock and piano with Ms. Chesney and applied to attend the String Fling Chamber Orchestra Camp at Missouri State University. She was awarded $375 by SJAMTA to pay for her tuition, and she will be attending camp July 11-14. Way to go, Hadley!

 

Congrats to our very own percussion coach, Isaiah Sterling for being accepted to the ranks of the Cavaliers of Drum Corp International fame.  He’ll be on tour and competing all summer long.

 

Congratulations to Mr. Terry Brock on his retirement from the SJSD.  The students there were lucky to have you while they could get you.  You are all ours now!!

 

Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.

It continues to be safety first around here.  Teachers will remain in masks.  Our waiting areas are technically still “closed” for the time being and we remain diligent.  The SJAA is dedicated to making any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.

Welcome to our Newest Students!

Pax, Jackson, Faith, Kane, Robert, Nicholas, Riley, Annelise, Lizzy, Evey, Mara, Isabelle, Armon, Korbyn, Christina, Isaac, Cade, Atti, Bernie, Jared, Kansas, Edison,  Roman, Nolan, Daniel, Tom, Presley, Henry, Callicko, Abel, Jordan, Calvin, Frankie, Cole, Ross, Daira, Tanner, Levi, Kaitlyn, Carter, Natalie, Evan, Emily & Carista!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our March “Student of the Month” is…

Lauren B.!


We are so lucky to have Lauren and her family with us at the SJAA.

Besides her guitar lessons w/Brent, she loves playing all sorts of sports and games, with her favorites being soccer and basketball. Lauren is a great friend, caring, and compassionate. She is always willing to help others, she always has a smile, and always has a song she is singing whether it is made up or one she knows.  We could go on and on…

We’ll celebrate Lauren with an Amazon gift card for her!

Thank you, Lauren for referring your friends and family to the Academy.

Congratulations!!!

To be considered for Student of the Month, be sure to talk to your teacher about all your musical and extracurricular activities, share pictures and refer your fellow musicians to the academy.

SJAA July Contest!

Coloring Contest – Congratulations to Alejandro C. on winning the coloring contest drawing!  He received a $25 Amazon Gift Card.  We had a lot of fun with so many great submissions this year with two different coloring page designs.  Our runner-up’s even got a little recognition and a $5 Sonic Gift Card.  Thanks to all for your creative and colorful work!

 

Summer Practice Challenge! – Students should record their practice on a practice logs (available by the printer) for the month of July (they can also use their TZ practice timer in their app).  We’ll do something for all who participate but grand prize for most time practiced is a $50 gift card.  Add it all up and turn them in to your teacher (or send a photo of the completed page) at the beginning of August.

Practice hard.  Maybe one day, you TOO can meet the Kool-Aid Man!  Oh Yeah!!
Updated Calendar

“Music Moves Us Together” Vol. 3 Video Concert – TBA

7/4 – Happy 4th of July – SJAA closed.

7/9 – SJAA Coloring Contest ends!

Summertime Practice Challenge – Month of July!

7/10 – Ashlyn Ford in Concert, Lanham Music, 2pm

 

 

8/5-12 – St Joseph “Family Week”

8/17 – “Silver & Gold Banquet” Word of Life Church, 1245pm

8/21 – MO Bicentennial Civic Center Park, 11am

 

SJAA 2nd Annual Songwriting Festival, Songwriting Clinic w/Lori Browne, TBA

9/18 – “Hawkfest” Blues & Jazz Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, 130

9/25 – “Bluegrass Battles Hunger”

 

10/17 – Student Appreciation!  Photo Day @ SJAA, 1-6pm

10/23-24 – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”

 

11/25 – Happy Thanksgiving – SJAA closed.

 

12/25 – Merry Christmas – SJAA closed.

 

2022

1/1 – Happy New Year – SJAA closed.

SJAA Specific Recitals in BOLD

Auto-Payments

Thanks to all for registering for convenient auto-drafting from credit cards or your bank account.  So glad to be able to offer this for our families.

https://stjosephartsacademy.com/auto-payment-authorization/

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $96

Lesson Policy
– Is here and copies are at the studio…
https://stjosephartsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/SJAA-Lesson-Policy-19.pdf

Thank you for reading -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
It’s been a great month.

Thank you for encouraging the advancing musicians in your life and in our community.

We are making the world a better place through music.

Here’s to YOUR music success!

Jason Riley
Director
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
8162944856 (personal cell)
Here to help! Call or text if you need anything at all.

{| o }===:::
Facebook
Website
Instagram
Referral Program – We have a great family of students and teachers at the SJAA.  We are extremely discerning in selecting the very best coaches and students when growing our family.  We want great students just like you.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to be a part of our SJAA family.

Does Your Teacher Have Openings?

Andrew – Tuesdays 2:15, 4 & 730
Brent – Tuesdays 6
Claire – Newly opened Monday, Tuesday and Thursday!!
Dan – Wednesdays 330, 430 & 6
Darren – Thursday 330
Emily – Mondays 4, Tuesday 530, Saturday 1030am
Eric – Mondays 3+
Frank – Wednesdays 530
Drums – Thursday 130, 330 & 6
Jason – Full
Jolie – Full
Josh – Monday 5 & 7
Marina – Monday 7, Friday 430
Mary Jo – Tuesday 330 & 630
Monica – Thursday – 430 & 530
Susan – Newly opened Thursday, Friday & Saturday!!
Terry – Full
Tyler – Friday 330 & 6

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Ukulele, Drums, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric Bass, Trumpet, Strings,  Early Childhood, Group Guitar, Group Ukulele. Art Classes, Online Music Lessons & Adult Art Classes.

We also offer…
Discounts on music books & accessories, instrument rentals and rental space for birthday parties and special events.

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://app.teacherzone.com

Free Wi-Fi – SJAA password “MusicAccomplished”

Academy Mission

Our mission at the St. Joseph Arts Academy is to provide the highest quality musical instruction and performance opportunities to beginning and advancing students in the Midland empire. We use our patience, enthusiasm and loyalty to encourage, inform and inspire others to happily share their skill and talent in love and gratitude to make the world a better place.

OUR MOTTO…

Music Accomplished!

Copyright © 2021 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.
You are a preferred member of the SJAA!

Our mailing address is:

St. Joseph Arts Academy

2509 Ashland Ave

Saint JosephMO 64506-1938

The Write Notes – March 2021

Dear Students & SJAA Families,Spring is finally here!

March serves as the one year anniversary of our initial quarantine followed by a 2020 that was… let’s say… unique.

While not without some great benefits, our families faced incredible challenges and uncertainties that added a lot of stress to our lives.

I want to extend a sincerest “Thank You” to you, our amazing instructors, awesome students and families who remained dedicated to your music lessons and personal growth.

When some gave up or other businesses simply couldn’t make it, the academystayed strong and steady.

It is at testament to the character of all of our members and to a deep belief in the power of music and art in our lives.

Safety will remain our first priority.  And the academy is growing again with new teachers and new families coming aboard for the adventure.

We have big things ahead and lots to look forward to TOGETHER.

Hope you will remain safe and well.  God bless your family and have a very happy spring.

Thank you!
jason and SJAA
Jason Riley (Director)
816 294 4856 (personal cell for call or text)

jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
Celebrations!

Welcome to our newest teachers and team members!  Marina Gurnovich (Piano/Voice), Darren Verbick (Piano/et al) & Dan Bliss (guitar).  We are so fortunate to have these master teachers working with our students and families at the SJAA.

Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.

It continues to be safety first around here.  Teachers will remain in masks.  Our waiting areas are technically still “closed” for the time being and we remain diligent.  The SJAA is dedicated to making any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.

Welcome to our Newest Students!

Sunny, Gavin, McKynlee, Bianca, Georgia, Ava, Alejandro, Piper, Matthew, Tristan, Logan, Sari, Elizabeth, Abby, Duncan, Hazel, Diane, Ledger, Allicen, Jacob, Jaxsen, Emma, Jayleon, Baylee, Teresa, Teagan, Bentley, Alexander, Garrison, Mike, Hannah, Carol, Jeff, Joe & Braden!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our March “Student of the Month” is…

Gwen J.!

We are so lucky to have Gwen and her family with us at the SJAA.

Besides her guitar lessons w/Jason and a piano lesson with Brent, Gwen brings a smile with her wherever she goes. She enjoys sports, traveling, art, music and spending time with family and friends. Gwen loves to play with her dog, Pfeiffer and aspires to be a vet when she grows up. Gwen has a big heart and is a joy to be around.

We’ll celebrate Gwen with an Amazon gift card for her!

Thank you, Gwen for referring your friends and family to the Academy.

Congratulations!!!

To be considered for Student of the Month, be sure to talk to your teacher about all your musical and extracurricular activities, share pictures and refer your fellow musicians to the academy.

Stay Tuned!

Announcing more new classes, specialty clinics and summer events for all ages soon.

Upcoming Events2021
3/4 – “Uke-Box Heroes” Thursdays, 6pm begins 6 weeks (no class 3/18)

3/4 –  “Guitar Mania” Thursdays, 7pm begins 6 weeks (no class 3/18)

3/7 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital, Violin Masterclass, 3pm CANCELLED

3/23 – “Music/Art Fun” Mondays, 930am 6/4weeks (Music ages 2-4, Art 3.5-5)

3/30 – “Super Art” Tuesdays 6pm begins 4 weeks (Grades 1-6)

 

“Music Moves Us Together” Vol. 3 Video Concert

4/7 – “Music Fun” Wednesdays 530pm begins 6 weeks (ages 2-4)

4/24 – “Music Play” Saturdays, 11am begins 6 weeks (ages 1-3)

 

5/15- SJAMTA Strings Evaluatives at SJAA – TBA

5/22 – SJAMTA Piano Evaluatives MRS. Chesney’s Studio – TBA

SJAA 2nd Annual Songwriting Festival

SJAA Coloring Contest

Summertime Practice Challenge

8/21 – MO Bicentennial Civic Center Park, TBA

 

9/18 – “Hawkfest” Blues & Jazz Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, 130

 

10/24? – Photo Day @ SJAA, times/venue TBA

 

TBA – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”

SJAA Specific Recitals in BOLD

Auto-Payments

Thanks to all for registering for convenient auto-drafting from credit cards or your bank account.  So glad to be able to offer this for our families.

http://stjosephartsacademy.com/auto-payment-authorization/

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $96

Lesson Policy
– Is here and copies are at the studio…
http://stjosephartsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/SJAA-Lesson-Policy-19.pdf

Thank you for reading -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
It’s been a great month.

Thank you for encouraging the advancing musicians in your life and in our community.

We are making the world a better place through music.

Here’s to YOUR music success!

Jason Riley
Director
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
8162944856 (personal cell)
Here to help! Call or text if you need anything at all.

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Referral Program – We have a great family of students and teachers at the SJAA.  We are extremely discerning in selecting the very best coaches and students when growing our family.  We want great students just like you.  The SJAA is now able to offer a FREE lesson for referring new students who register for lessons.  Thank you for referring your friends and family to be a part of our SJAA family.

Does Your Teacher Have Openings?

Jolie – Full
Terry – Full
Frank – Mondays, 330 & 5
JC – Mondays, 3 & 730
Andrew – Tuesdays 1230 & 430
Emily – Mondays 4 & 630,  Tuesday 530
Monica – Full
Brent – Full
Mary Jo – Tuesday 4 & 530
Isaiah – Monday 5 & 630, Tuesday
Jason – Full
Eric – Monday 5
Jennifer – Tuesday at 4

Darren – New day coming soon!
Dan – New day coming soon!
Marina – Monday 630, Friday 430

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Ukulele, Drums, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric Bass, Trumpet, Strings,  Early Childhood, Group Guitar, Group Ukulele. Art Classes, Online Music Lessons & Adult Art Classes.

We also offer…
Discounts on music books & accessories, instrument rentals and rental space for birthday parties and special events.

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://app.teacherzone.com

Free Wi-Fi – SJAA password “MusicAccomplished”

Academy Mission

Our mission at the St. Joseph Arts Academy is to provide the highest quality musical instruction and performance opportunities to beginning and advancing students in the Midland empire. We use our patience, enthusiasm and loyalty to encourage, inform and inspire others to happily share their skill and talent in love and gratitude to make the world a better place.

OUR MOTTO…

Music Accomplished!

Copyright © 2021 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.

 

 

 

#guitarlessons #pianolessons #violinlessons #drumlessons #toddlermusicclasses #guitarlessonsinstjosephmo #musiclessons #musiclessonsnearme #artclasses #toddlerartclass #adultmusiclesson

Let them play! Benefits of music lessons for kids.

Why start young?

It is now widely accepted that there are direct correlations between musical study and verbal competency, motor and auditory skills, reasoning abilities and problem solving – essential abilities that children take into adulthood.

Musical experience promotes brain development.

A 2009 study featured in the Journal of Neuroscience showed for the first time that musical experience, for as little as 15 months in early childhood leads to structural brain changes and results in improvements in motor and auditory skills.

Music contributes to academic success.

Researchers at the Boston Children’s Hospital worked with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and found that early musical training enhances the areas of the brain responsible for executive functioning.  Children with at least two years of private lessons showed enhanced cognitive control with aids in information retention and behavior regulation.

“Musical training may actually help to set up children for a better academic future,” said senior investigator Nadine Gaab, Ph.D., of the Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience.  A study published in 2007 by Christopher Johnson, professor of music education and music therapy at the University of Kansas, revealed that students in elementary schools with superior music education programs scored around 22 percent higher in English and 20 percent higher in math on standardized tests, compared to schools with low-quality music programs, regardless of socioeconomic disparities among the schools or school districts.  Johnson compared the concentration that music training requires to the focus needed to perform well on a standardized test.

Aside from the test score results, Johnson’s study highlights the positive effects that a quality music education can have on a young child’s success.   “Schools that have rigorous programs and high-quality music and arts teachers probably have high quality teachers in other areas.  If you have an environment where there are a  lot of people doing creative, smart, great things, joyful things, even people who aren’t doing that have a tendency to grow up and do better,” said Mary Luehrisen, executive director of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation, a not-for-profit association that promotes the benefits of making music.

Being musical is a process.

Music can improve your child’s abilities in learning and other nonmusical tasks, but it’s important to understand that music does not make one smarter.  The many intrinsic benefits to music education include being disciplined, learning a skill, being a part of the music world, managing performance and being part of something for which you are proud.

While parents may hope that enrolling their child in a music program will make her a better student, the primary reasons to provide your child with a musical education should be to help them become more musical, to appreciate all aspects of music, and to respect the process of learning an instrument or learning to sing, which is valuable on its own merit.

Playing music is fun!

Playing music is just fun to do and one of the most important benefits of music lessons.  There is another more captivating or engaging that blasting a song through your headphones or jamming with friends or bandmates.  Even when you’re just getting started, playing some basic songs is super fun.  No matter how simple, there’s nothing better than to say , “I just made music!”

Benefits of music lessons for kids

#guitarlessons #pianolessons #violinlessons #drumlessons #toddlermusicclasses #guitarlessonsinstjosephmo #musiclessons #musiclessonsnearme #artclasses #toddlerartclass #adultmusiclesson

Everything You Need to Know About Music Lessons in St. Joseph, MO

cropped Music lessons all ages

 

Everything You Need to Know About

Music Lessons!

A Guide for Student Musicians and Parents.

St. Joseph Arts Academy – 4th Edition (January 2021)Welcome to the St. Joseph Arts Academy…3

Academy Mission 3

Where Can I Take Lessons? 4

When Can I Take Lessons? 4

Who Takes Music Lessons? 5

What We Teach. 7

How Long Does It Take to Learn a Musical Instrument? 9

How Much Does It Cost? 9

How or When Do I Pay? 10

How Do I Enroll? 10

Why Do People Take Music Lessons 11

Recitals/Adjudications 12

Books/Materials 12

How to Practice 13

Expectations 14

Make-ups 14

Awards 15

Photo Day 15

How Does it Work (Drop Off, Pick Up) 16

Community 16

Resources 16

Conclusion 17

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

(816) 974-SOLO(7656)

info@stjosephartsacademy.com

“Everything You Need to Know About Music Lessons”

© 2022  All rights reserved.  Music Accomplished.

Welcome to the
St. Joseph Arts Academy

Everything You Need to Know About Music Lessons

So you are thinking about starting music lessons.  Music is a wonderful part of the human experience and brings many benefits to our lives.  Learning to play music or providing lessons for a loved one is one of the greatest gifts you can give or receive. 

If you are new to music education or have never played an instrument, you may have some questions.  This booklet should help in answering some of the most common questions or concerns for those just starting out.  If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to write or us a call.  We are happy to provide any information you need in making the best decisions about getting going with your music lessons. 

Wishing you the very best on starting (or continuing) along the path of the advancing musician.

Jason Riley

Director – SJAA

jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

Academy Mission 

Our mission at the St. Joseph Arts Academy is to provide the highest quality musical instruction and performance opportunities to beginning and advancing students in the Midland empire.  We use our patience, enthusiasm and loyalty to encourage, inform and entertain others to happily share their skill and talents in love and gratitude to make the world a better place.

OUR MOTTO…

Music Accomplished!

Where Can I Take Music Lessons?

Most communities offer a variety of options for music lessons.  Depending on the size of your city, lessons are likely offered through college and university music departments, continuing education programs, local music stores, music conservatories and music schools as well diverse and varied instruction from private teachers in homes, school or church settings.

The SJAA is THE hometown music school in our area.

We are conveniently located at 2021 N. 36 Street, St. Joseph MO  64506, just off the Belt highway with easy access to shopping and dining.

When Can I Take Music Lessons?

Many music teachers maintain very busy but limited teaching schedules.  Most are available during “after-school” hours between about 3 and 8pm during the week.  Some are often available on Saturdays too.

At the SJAA, lessons and classes will soon be offered 7 days a week.  We know our students and their families have complex and busy schedules also so we strive to be available for them as they need.  This will eventually include studio hours from 9am-9pm during the week, 9am-5pm on Saturdays and even 1-6pm on Sundays.

Scheduling your lessons at the SJAA is easy and convenient.

Write info@stjosephartsacademy.com, Call/Text 816-974-7656 or

REQUEST INFO at https://stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info/

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Who Takes Music Lessons?

Music lessons are available to anyone with the desire to learn.  You are never too young or too old to begin or make new progress with a musical instrument.

Students – Music students can range in age from infant to retirees and seniors.  The youngest students often work along with parents in music courses designed for pre-K, like KinderMusik.  Actual lessons on most instruments can begin by the age of 5 or 6.  While the elementary, middle and high school years are a common time to study music in school or privately, college-age students and professional adults of any age can also advance in their musicianship through very serious approaches or more as hobbyists.

While some students may want to pursue the highest levels or musicianship, we do not expect that every music student should want to become professional musicians.  Our purpose is to help all students achieve their potential, reap the many benefits of music study and reach their personal musical goals.

Teachers – Like students, music teachers come with a wide variety of personalities, abilities and experiences.  Music teachers in our community range from accomplished students with just a little experience to accredited educators and college professors with doctoral degrees.

Being a great musician doesn’t automatically make someone a great teacher.  In our opinion, the best teachers have an expertise on their instruments, many years of teaching or performing experience and positive mental attitudes.  They are patient, encouraging AND they have a desire to teach and share music in the lives of others.

Our teachers at the SJAA are good, high-quality individuals, first.  Next, we seek out teachers with college music degrees or 20 years or more of performance experience.

We work hard to provide all our teachers with the resources they need to be successful with their students and that includes on-going continuing education and teacher training.  Our teachers have the best available approaches and methods for teaching and getting results for our students.

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Parents – Parents, grandparents, other family members, friends and guardians play very important roles in the success of music students.  Besides transportation to lessons and  making payments, these care-givers on the home-front monitor practice, give encouragement when things get tough and show support in concerts and recitals.

Parents and adult mentors validate the importance of music lessons for their students, helping students view their study and instrument as a priority and something extremely valuable to them, the family and the whole community.

We wouldn’t be able to have the success we’ve had with our students without these wonderful, loving and encouraging parents and extended family supporting our young musicians every step of the way.

Director – SJAA director, Jason Riley is a professional musician and teacher.  With degrees in classical guitar performance and commercial music, he has toured and performed with national and international artists throughout the U.S and Europe.

Jason has a number of albums to his credit and has produced and played on countless others as a sideman.

As an instructor, he has operated his own private guitar studio for nearly 30 years and has taught for Benedictine College, Missouri Western State University and has been a featured clinician in many guitar festivals and camps.

Besides guitar, Jason has taught private and group classes in multiple styles for bass, banjo, mandolin, ukulele and harmonica.

Jason’s wife, Jolie is also a wonderful musician and educator with the St. Joseph School District.  The SJAA is the natural extension of their aspiration to offer something truly special and needed to young artists and musicians in our area.

What We Teach

We teach aspiring and advancing musicians how to play musical instruments (or use their voice) in traditional, creative and technically appropriate ways.  Our studio was founded as a master private teacher studio with an emphasis on guitar.  As an example, our guitar students have always learned the most important elements required to be successful with the instrument.  Including but not limited to…

Music Reading

Scales

Chords

Technical Exercises

Traditional Repertoire

History and Interpretation

Musicality

Theory and Fretboard Logic

Ear-training

Performance Skills and Etiquette

Lessons for all instruments include the same basic foundation while concentrating on the idiomatic approaches that arise with any individual instrument. 

Students can take lessons on the most popular “Western” instruments that you find in the school band, orchestra, jazz bands, church praise teams, string bands and choirs.  Again, including but not limited to…

Piano

Guitar (acoustic & electric)

Violin (strings)

Viola

Cello

Bass (acoustic & electric)

Drums/Percussion

Banjo

Ukulele

Mandolin

Voice & Singing

Harmonica

Band Instruments (trumpet, trombone, clarinet, flute, saxophone)
& MORE!

We also specialize in EARLY CHILDHOOD MUSIC classes and offer lots of fun Art classes and other music clinics and special events for all ages.

Great teachers for more rare instruments might be more difficult to find in our area.  We strive to connect interested students with the most qualified teachers even if it means referring them to teachers outside of our community.

Students also learn in a variety of musical styles.  Duke Ellington famously said “There are only two kinds of music, good music and the other kind”.   It is part of our mission to share and foster an appreciation of all kinds of music.  Learners are inspired to play by the music they love.  Often that is the music they are most familiar with, songs they hear on the radio, in movies or in church. 

Students should play the music they love and be introduced to new music at the same time.  We focus on standard repertoire in classical, jazz, rock, blues, country and popular music.  This also includes many sub-genres such as baroque, swing, heavy metal, delta blues, bluegrass or hip-hop.  Students and teachers may also agree to specialize or focus on specific styles for any number of reasons that might include preparing for a show, a concert or an audition.

There are also a number of teaching methods that would be in use.  One of the great benefits of one-on-one learning is the ability to tailor methods to an individual’s learning style.  We are all unique and we all learn differently. 

A great teacher is one that can identify best approaches and practices along with their student.  They guide and encourage and help them implement best music learning strategies based on the strengths of the individual. 

Methods would include music reading and rote learning (learning through demonstration).  Some students are strong visual learners while others have a strong auditory sense or prefer to read things from the page and implement.  For others, group learning is best. 

While not all teachers or studios offer awards or recognition, at the St. Joseph Arts Academy we have a reward system in place for accomplishment.  We give the students the incentive to achieve, to move up and to grow in their musicianship in a number of ways.  Certificates, medals, pins, special commemorative items, even gift cards are used as rewards for completing books, receiving honors or performing in recitals and concerts or in special recognitions like our “Student of the Month”.

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

How long does it take to learn a musical instrument?

We encourage all of our students to be life-long learners.  Learning or playing a musical instrument could offer greater and greater rewards over many lifetimes.  Having said that… most students will learn the basics in about one year with proficiency coming with in just 4 or 5 years.  It really depends on the individual and even more on the amount of time and perfect practice they can invest in their instrument.  The student who practices 10 minutes a day for 5 years will learn quite a lot but some students will devote 2 hours a day or more.  Obviously, it’s about the time dedicated to effective practice over years.

A bachelors degree in music takes about 4-5 years to complete.  Most of those students have already played or studied for many years before even beginning the college program.  Serious or professional level players go on to many more years of dedicated practice and performance.

One of the greatest benefits to learning an instrument is that it can be a lifelong adventure. 

Athletes only play football for a few years and those school years are limited.  Musicians can enjoy music and their instrument their whole life through. 

Now that really is the gift that keeps on giving!

How much does it cost?

Lesson fees have a wide range based on where you are in the country.  In the larger urban centers like New York or LA, people pay more for everything (including music lessons) than we do in the Midwest.  Fees are also subject to demand. 

Some teachers are highly revered or in high demand.  They may only accept students based on audition or they may be a specialist teaching a rare instrument or style.  These expert teachers can command higher fees. 

At the time of this writing, a 30 minute music lesson in the US runs from about $20-75.  At the SJAA, we charge $25.50 for a 30 minute private session but we also offer hour sessions, ensembles and specialized classes.  Students who are really enjoying their instrument and the culture often take one or more private lessons and participate in ensembles as well.

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

How or When do I pay?

Lessons at the SJAA are month to month.  While some other private studio teachers may even allow week to week payments, monthly payments are the industry standard. 

Monthly fees for a 30 minute private music lesson once per week are just $102.  For your convenience, we use an auto-pay system that can be applied to your credit card or to your bank account.  Fees are collected at the first lesson of every month and guarantees your time slot for that month.  We do require a 30 day written notice if you need to stop for any reason (summer vacation, take a break, etc.) or discontinue all together. 

How do I enroll?

It’s easy to enroll! 

Simply call or text the Academy (816-974-7656)

…request info at https://stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info/

…or drop us an email to info@stjosephartsacademy.com and we’ll get you registered. 

We’ll get your basic information and get you scheduled with a great teacher on your chosen instrument.

The registration fee is just $35 (mention that you’ve read this “Everything You Need To Know About Music Lessons” and we’ll register you for FREE!).

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Why do people take music lessons?

Benefits of Music Education – There are number of reasons people choose to study music or learn a musical instrument.  Many are called just because of their love of music or they have an undeniable desire to learn to play.  It’s a kind of personal development that “improves” or aids a human being in so many ways. 

Studies have shown that music students are better at math and reading, they have better listening and communication skills as well as spatial awareness like hand/eye coordination. 

Let’s not forget important skills like patience, discipline, persistence and practice.

Many parents want their children in music for just these benefits.  Some wish they had been able to study when they were young and maybe didn’t have the opportunity.  They want to give something to their children that they didn’t have.

There is also a sense of community through being involved in music.  We all want to belong, to be accepted and to be part of “the gang”.  Joining a school band, the local orchestra, forming your own jazz quartet or singing in a choir connects you to others through the special activity of music. 

Every performer knows about the relationship between what’s happening on the stage and what’s happening inside the audience who are listening.  We are sharing of ourselves, our hearts and minds.  We are conjuring feelings and emotions in the ring of live performances. 

We are all there together in the moment.

We also see a lot of “non-traditional” students, older folks or retirees just starting in music lessons or maybe returning.  These people tend to be looking for something productive to do with their newly found “extra time” or they seek the mental challenges that music brings to keep their brains strong and healthy in their later years. 

Sometimes it’s just a bucket list item, something they’ve always wanted to do. 

Grandma’s and Grandpa’s do a lot of transport, encouraging, practicing and even paying for music lessons for the young musicians in their life.

Amateur and professional musicians who play at very high levels continue to take lessons too.  You are never finished in music.  You can always go further, learn more, take it to the next level.  These students are more after coaching similar to the high-achievers in any sport or business. 

It’s helpful to have another expert analyze your skills and give you a fresh perspective on something that might be holding you back or just help you stay motivated to be the best that you can be.

Recitals/Adjudications 

Performance opportunities and testing are an important part of the music learning experience.  At the collegiate and conservatory level, students give mandatory performances regularly and are tested in a formal adjudication at the end of every semester.  Many private teachers do not offer these opportunities at all.

At the SJAA, we offer recital opportunities nearly every month during the school year and have invitations to perform at community festivals and other events during the summer. 

We offer a formal adjudication every April along with our local music teachers association.  Students CHOOSE whether they want to participate in recitals and testing.  They are not mandatory. 

Not every student wants to perform but most do and many want to play every chance they get.  We encourage them to play at least one time in the fall and then another time in the spring or summer but quite a few get on stage at every opportunity. 

Parents and families love RECITALS and they make for some great memories

Practicing performing in recitals and in adjudication helps students deal with anxiety or nervousness.  It gives them something very specific to buckle down and prepare for as well as providing valuable feedback.  Feedback that might be from a judge about a specific passage or movement as well as feedback from teachers, parents and loved ones who just say “Way to go!” or “so proud of your accomplishment”.

Books/Materials 

Each instrument and level will require its own books, materials or other items specific to that instrument.  Most teachers use their own specific or even proprietary methods with their students.  They will have the books or other materials available for sale in many cases.  Other times, they’ll have a list of the necessary materials that you could get at the local music store or online.

As an example, besides their instrument, guitar students require a tuner, picks, guitar strap, footstool, notebook or binder and maybe even more specialized equipment like capos, amplifiers, pedals and cables for electric guitar.  A music stand is an important piece of equipment.

Most students will go through a series of books every year to an additional cost of about $10-50 depending on how fast they get through the material.  Collecting and keeping a variety of music books is a great way to build your own music library for review or reference down the road. 

At our studio, we have an amazing library of music books and musical magazine subscriptions for the use and constant advancement of our teachers and our students.

How to Practice

Success in music is based on practice.  The saying “practice makes perfect” is not necessarily the best advice in music.  We like to say “perfect practice makes perfect”.  In reality, it’s all about focused, perfect practice, over time.  You can’t cram for music they way you might pull an all-nighter for a test.  Studies show that’s a bad idea too. 

Every teacher knows the value of practice or what happens with a lack of it.  At our school, we adhere to the adage of the famous violin teacher, Shinichi Suzuki who said you only need to practice “the days you sleep and the days you eat”. 

Time spent in daily practice is also based on your level and your age.  Younger children shouldn’t be expected to practice as long as an adult professional.  The practice session is really basically the same for both though.  Doing the best you can for the time that you have allotted.  7 days a week is the best you can do but 6 is still great.  5 is very good in fact.  For best results, keeping it at 5 or more days is a good idea. 

Very young children just beginning might do just 10 minutes a day, a 16 year old with some experience might be doing 45 minutes with music majors and professionals doing many hours a day. 

There are a number of examples of virtuoso players who practiced and studied 6-10 hours a day over many years!  Again, our approach is that a student should practice most everyday, doing their best with the time they have and to keep that routine going over years to become proficient.

For more info, we’ve got another article specifically dedicated to practicing and practice techniques…

https://stjosephartsacademy.com/how-to-practice

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Expectations

Learning music is not a casual enterprise.

It demands a serious commitment of time, energy and money to be successful. 

We expect that music learners should love their lessons and have a great experience.  Learners should expect great advancements followed by plateaus.  This is the nature of the climb.  We make a lot of progress and things can flatten out until we reach the next hill to climb, summit and plateau again.

Learners should expect to do the work.  To practice.  Everyday mostly.  They should expect to feel uncomfortable or “out of their comfort zone’’ as this is where we grow.  We stretch.  We become better than we were before.

We expect a commitment.  Teachers and learners working together towards specific and tangible goals. 

We expect everyone involved to be seriously invested in the process of learning.

We expect to create reliable employment for teachers.

We expect that you will learn, advance, grow and achieve your musical goals.  You can do it. 

We know how and can be your guide along that path.  Let’s climb together.

Make-ups

Many studio teachers offer a “NO MAKE-UP” policy.  If you miss a lesson you are simply out for that week.  I even know of a very famous teacher who would decline a student if they missed ONE lesson.  If you had to miss a time slot with him, it was up to YOU to send someone else in order to hold your spot.  I’ve worked with conservatory department heads that insisted you dismiss or flunk students who missed more than one “unexcused” lesson.

This all may seem very harsh.  But it’s a great example of how seriously professional musicians take their work.  It is very unlikely that these folks ever missed lessons or took advantage of the time of their coaches or esteemed teachers.

Make up policies are diverse as teacher are diverse.  Some are very flexible with available times others have extremely full schedules which simply don’t allow for make-ups.

If you have to miss a lesson, advance notice is always the best option.  Let your teacher know that you will be missing.  This will allow them to make the space available for another student (maybe even you) that is looking for an alternative slot that week.

For many years, as a single teacher studio, our policy has been “48 Hours Notice” for a missed lesson.  We may not be able to offer a make up but you would not be charged.  Now with managing and paying multiple teachers, this has become impossible.

If your teacher has to miss a lesson for any reason, you will not be charged for that lesson.  We credit your lesson to the next months payment.

We are in the process of implementing a more fluid system of make up lessons.  Students and families will be able to schedule their make-ups in advance for Saturday group sessions throughout the year.  You can schedule them any time.  “In Advance” is encouraged as space is limited each week. 

We want to provide the easiest solution and the extra value in time spent with a great teacher for your music lesson investment.

Awards/Rewards 

Learning music and playing an instrument has many intrinsic rewards in and of itself.  At the SJAA, we like to celebrate, honor and recognize our students’ specific milestones and achievements.  We award and reward musical accomplishments with certificates, pins, wrist bands, trophies and even gifts.  Whenever a student finishes a specific level, certain books, performs in recital or is honored in any way, we want to recognize that achievement and share our pride in them. 

Each month we select one student who has achieved something remarkable as “Student of the Month”.  These students receive an additional gift as well as being announced on our website, Facebook page and in our newsletter.

Students and families who refer new students to our Academy receive additional rewards for their referrals.  Free lessons, free books, iTunes, Amazon or East Hills Gift Certificates are all favorite choices of our students.

Photo Day

Just like in sports and dance, our music academy offers students a photo day once per year.  Students and parents have the opportunity to get a professional photo taken with their instruments or even an action shot!  Young students especially grow very quickly and these photos are great keepsakes of the memories and milestones we make in our musical seasons.

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

How does it work?

Drop off, pick up, waiting room

Most lessons begin on the hour and half hour.  Students should arrive on time or just a few minutes early.  Parents are always welcome to sit in on the lessons.  Always or anytime!  They are also welcome to drop students off to run errands and then pick them up after the lessons.  We strive to have comfortable waiting area and clean restrooms for folks who prefer to sit and wait. 

As a workplace for music staff, students and teachers, we want to you to feel welcome and comfortable in our studios.

Community

It’s a simple fact… Music brings people together.  We are blessed in that our region has so many talented players, dedicated teachers, lovers of music and encouraging supporters.

We are a family. 

Studying a musical instrument and participating with the SJAA make you part of an extended family.  Our students have peers and mentors to encourage them and to keep them accountable.  There is always someone you can lean on, gain inspiration from, ask questions of and just friends to hang out with. 

We’ve got your back.  That’s what real community is all about.  That’s what it means to be a family.

Resources

The St. Joseph Arts Academy is your local resource for all things musical.  We are here to help the aspiring musicians in our community find the support they need and deserve.  If you have any other questions or concerns about your music lessons, please don’t hesitate to call or drop us an email.  We are here to help.

The book “Help! My Kid is Taking Music Lessons” by Anthony Glise is another excellent resource for parents with children in music lessons.  On Amazon: http://a.co/9fLuU1N

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Conclusion

Learning a musical instrument is a serious endeavor.  It definitely takes a commitment of time to be successful not to mention an investment with your dollars.  Having the right teachers, mentors or coaches is a vital part of the process in learning that can actually save you time and frustration.  These trained professionals can put you on a guided plan towards your musical goals and oversee your progress every step of the way.

It is our heartfelt belief that music study has important effects on the individual.  Music brings people together and makes the world a better place to live. 

We want everyone to play!

The skills a person learns through playing an instrument have positive effects in nearly every other aspect life.  We are here to encourage and support YOU!

Thank you for the time to read “Everything You Need to Know About Music Lessons”!  We hope it’s provided the information you truly needed (and maybe some you didn’t know you needed) to make the best decision about music lessons for yourself, your family or friends. 

We hope you’ll join us!  Please consider referring your friends or family members to the Academy.  We greatly appreciate your referral.

Thank you for encouraging the musicians of all ages in your life.  It’s never easy to learn to play an instrument.  But, it brings such value to the individuals, our community and the world.

In support of YOUR music,

Jason Riley

Director – St. Joseph Arts Academy

jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

(816) 974-SOLO(7656)

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

info@stjosephartsacademy.com

“Everything You Need to Know About Music Lessons”

© 2021 All rights reserved. Music Accomplished.

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

 

At the St. Joseph Arts Academy We Offer…

Private Music Lessons

Bass

Guitar (Acoustic & Electric)

Piano
Voice & Singing

Strings

Violin
Cello

Ukulele

Drums
Band Instruments

Early Childhood & More!

Group Classes

Intro to Guitar

Ukulele

Early Childhood

Art Classes

“Create Your Own” Classes

Special Events

Birthday Parties/Event Space

Maestro Series

Clinics

Masterclasses

Recitals

Concerts

Adult Events

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Know About Music Lessons

Event Space for Birthday Parties in St. Joseph Mo

Looking for a great spot to celebrate a birthday with friends and family that won’t break the budget?

The St Joseph Arts Academy is available to rent for your special event.

We have a large space with tables and a kitchenette area for serving treats and refreshments.

Available for Adult and Children’s events of all kinds.

Options could include a musical or art activity for you and your guests led by one of our own SJAA staff.

Space includes clean bathrooms, folding chairs and tables, double sink and large counter top, farm-style table, mini fridge, Big Screen TV and sound system for Karaoke or a dance party.

Available by reservation.  First Come.  First Serve.  Space is available most friday evenings, saturday afternoons/evenings or all day sunday.

info@stjosephartsacademy.com or Call (816) 974-7656 to reserve your date.

https://stjosephartsacademy.com/birthday-parties-event-space/

Fill out the form below for more information or to reserve your event date with the SJAA.

Plan your Event TODAY with the SJAA!

Offering quality acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, voice & singing, bass, drums, violin, cello, banjo, mandolin, ukulele lessons, toddler music, pre-school music & art classes in St. Joseph, MO.

Serving the communities of St. Joseph, Atchison, Smithville, Savannah, Weston, Dearborn, Elwood, Wathena, Maryville, Stewartsville, Maysville, Weston, Platte City, North Kansas City, Country Club MO, Amazonia MO, Avenue City MO, Troy KS, Easton MO, DeKalb MO, Rushville, Agency MO, Gower MO, Oregon MO, Union star, Faucett MO, Dearborn MO, Plattsburgh MO & Mound City MO

St. Joseph Arts Academy
2027 North 36th Street
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
(816) 974-7656
info@stjosephartsacademy.com

www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Looking for great live music for your special event?
www.jasonriley.com
Looking for the best live band for your special event?
www.socajukebox.com

Event Space for Birthday Parties