Best Musical Christmas Gifts

Looking For One More Little Gift That They Can Actually Use?

Need Gift Ideas to Share with Grandma, Family or Friends for your Advancing Musician?

Great Musical Gifts Big and Small (from $5 and up!)

Steel Pans, Ukuleles, Books and Musical Accessories

$5 Drum Sticks
$10 Music Stands
Guitar Strings ($1 per String)

Limited Quantities.

Panyard “Jumbie” Steel Pans!  Only Available at SJAA!  w/Stand (less that $250) tabletop (less than $200)

Need a little musical gift for your favorite musicians?

Save on accessories and books in stock at the SJAA!

BOOKS….. 30% OFF!

Guitar…………………………..
Violin……………………………
Cello…………………………….
UKE………………………………
Mandolin…………………..
Piano……………………………

MUSICAL ACCESSORIES –   Sale Price

2 “Quote” totes $24.00

4 Guitar Totes $22.00

2 Diamond Head Concert UKES  $62.97 – You Save $27.00!

4 Tuning Forks $8.97

1 Alvarez Artis Accessory $19.99 – You Save $8.00!

1 Nomad Premium Guitar Care  $12.49 – You Save $12.50!

1 Daddario 20′ guitar $19.99

11 Guitar/UkeTuners  $15.00 – You Save $14.55!

1 Guitar Humidifier $5.00 – You Save $3.97!

Variety Guitar/Uke Strings $12 per set 2 for 1!

2 Chicago Blues Harp  $5.00 – You Save $4.97!

5 Daddario Lite Capos $8.99

3 Drumsticks  $5.00 – You Save $2.99!

3 Onstage Guitar Stands.  $14.99 – You Save $5.00!

6 Hamilton Folding Music Stands  $10.00!!! = You Save $14.99!

5 Hal Leonard $8.99

3 Bastien Flash Cards $4.99

1 24 Dual Penset  $5.00 – You Save $4.99!

6 Pencil Set $7.99

6 Pastels Set $6.99

2 String Swing Violin Wall Hangers $12.79 – You Save $4.00!

3 string Swing Guitar Wall Hangers  $11.79 – You Save $4.00!

2 Hamilton Recorders  $8.00 – You Save $4.99!

1 PBuzz Horns $9.99 – You Save $10.00!

OR…
“Stuff The Stocking” w/Music Lessons
$99.00 – You Save $85.00!

It’s EASY to get yours! Reply to this email, Call or text us at (816) 974-7656.
Fill out this quick form and mention the stocking promotion: https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info/

Or email us at info@stjosephartsacademy.com.

We’ll take care of the rest. Merry Christmas!

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

Pick Up Notes – Summer Newsletter

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

Throughout my years in the field, I have found that parents of music students occasionally fall into what I call the “one teacher trap”.

A music student will often have a single music teacher when they first start their musical journey.  Over time, illness and family demands may force the teacher to miss lessons here and there.  It is also not uncommon for teachers to relocate at some later date forcing you to find a new teacher.

When a parent realizes that their child’s regular teacher is temporarily or permanently unavailable, they may feel panic when their child is reassigned to a different teacher.

While it is certainly normal for a student and their family to grow close to a teacher overtime, I often tell parents that a new teacher can provide a fresh perspective on their child’s learning.  The wonderful thing about changing music teachers overtime is that students are given a new perspective, new advice and recommendations for their performance. They also learn to communicate with different people of authority and they are better able to adapt to new teaching styles.

When the time comes to change music teachers regardless of what the circumstance may be, I encourage you to view the situation as a potentially positive experience for your child. Think back to a moment in your past when a stable figure in your life that you were close and friendly with parted ways.

Perhaps you had a hair stylist or barber you quite liked who left the salon, or maybe you regularly enjoyed the sermons of a particular pastor who moved to another city, or perhaps you had a favorite sports coach who left your team.

It is natural to become attached to people we are familiar with and have spent time with.  Now, I urge you to think of the individual who replaced that person you were wants attached to. Many times we become even closer and more connected with the replacement. New people in our lives provide a boost of motivation that can be conducive to our personal growth and development.  Another pastor could have a different style that challenges and intrigues you.  A new sports coach can view your skill with fresh eyes and make helpful recommendations on your form, speed or training methods.  When it comes to music, a new teacher will have a new perspective that could be a better match for your child’s skill set and practice methods. The new instructor could foster a new enthusiasm for their instrument.

I once had an adult students attend one of my music schools who regularly visited the same teacher.  His teacher was not available one evening for their lesson so we arranged for the students to have a guest teacher. When the student arrived and was notified in the lobby that he would have a “substitute” for the day, he became upset, began yelling and stormed out of the school. He went home and wrote a lengthy email about how he upset he was that his teacher was unavailable, and he eventually left the school.

However, if that student had actually attended his lesson, he would have been pleasantly surprised.  We had arranged for the student’s guest teacher to be the teacher who had mentored and taught HIS OWN teacher many years ago.  The substitute had more degrees than the students regular teacher, had been teaching longer, and had more experience in the world of music.  In the end, the student may have enjoyed his lesson and gain some valuable information. Had he been open to the idea of change, something positive probably would have come of it.

I believe students should have at least three or four teachers throughout their lives.  Having the opinions of different people with different backgrounds will expose your child to a wider variety of information than if they were confined to the suggestions of a single teacher.

Thank you for allowing our faculty to work with your family and being an important member of our SJAA family!

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

Summer Practice Challenge

Hawkfest

Future Stages at the Kauffman Center

Bela Fleck: My Bluegrass Heart

Custom Pick Holders

New Photographs from Tyler Osborn Studios

Welcome New Teachers

Who got Engaged!

Welcome New Students

… AND MORE!

Celebrations! 

AKMA – Molly, Ashlyn and Jason set out to provide some tunes for the recent (and first) Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art’s Local Artist Fair.  A great day of music and art with food, vendors and free admission to the museum.  A real gem in our community and we have strong ties to them.

 

“Hawkfest” – SJAA students performed recently for the annual “Hawkfest” Coleman Hawkins Blues and Jazz Festival in Coleman Hawkins Park.  Fiddle tunes, swing jazz, boogie boogie and latin rock rang out from the Gazebo stage on a HOT Saturday afternoon.  Big thanks to the Coleman Hawkins Jazz Heritage Society for being so dedicated to supporting and encouraging the next generation.

 

Future Stages at the Kauffman Center – On Sunday, June 12 the SJAA represented St. Joseph at the 6th annual “Future Stages”.  We took 25 student performers and teachers to perform in large ensemble AND in showcases.  It was an amazing day and we can’t say enough about the organization at the Kauffman.  SJAA ensembles were selected based on our audition videos from our work at the Missouri Bicentennial last summer.  Truly an honor for our students who work very hard, play and act so professionally to make a great impression on all who hear them.   Stay tuned for some great videos and excellent photography from our time there.  Congratulations, guys!

Bela Fleck: My Bluegrass Heart – The SJAA and the Kauffman Center recently provided 30 free tickets to this amazing event.  Ticket winners were drawn at random to witness an all-star performance of this Grammy winning work from “the king of the banjo”, Bela Fleck and co.  What a show!

New Photographs from Tyler Osborn Studios – SJAA added some new wall photography (courtesy of our amazing students and Tyler Osborn Studios.  Very artistic shots and prints that highlight the actual advancing musicians we coach.  Very Photogenic!!

Welcome our New Teachers – Welcoming Miss Hannah Dixon (violin/strings), Isaac Rivera (percussion) and Miss Sara Verduzco (percussion) to our SJAA faculty.  SJAA is very selective and discerning about who we have working with us and we have the best team EVER!

 

Tie that Knot – Congratulations to our own, Miss Monica who said “Yes” to Trevor.  They’re Engaged!

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!

Summer Practice Challenge – Summer is a great time to get a little (or a lot) extra playing time on your instrument and we want to reward you for your hard work.  Don’t forget to share you practice log (with practice hours) with your teacher by the end of June!  Grand Prize for the most hours practiced and a drawing for an additional prize for all who participate.  Keep going!!
Custom Pick Holders – Special gift to our academy guitarists in these super fun, custom made pick holders especially for the SJAA!  Thanks to Boston Daniels of Las Vegas for these super cool, 3-D printed designs JUST FOR US!

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!

Lane, Brett, Lily, Finnick, Misty, Dan, Owen, Emily, Andon, Emani, Timothy, Shaeffer, Ruby, Chloe, Koby, Colin, Lucy, Mary, Corena, Logan, Debi, Alexis, Bauer, Jexx, Remi, Macie, Emma, Grace, Molly, Breanne & Bailey!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our April “Student of the Month” is

Adam M!


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

 

Adam (seen here with his “Practice Buddy”) is an artist at heart. Besides his piano studies with Mrs. Marina, he can draw better than some adults. He’s also very happy to talk about his favorite video games and Pokemon.  Adam is truly a sweet, respectful and hard working boy.

Way to go, Adam!  We are SO proud of you!!

 

 

We’ll celebrate Adam with an Amazon gift card!

Thank you, Adam 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 ”Pet of the Month”!  Our family are big supporters of our local animal shelter and have adopted our beloved amazing, four legged family members.  We know our students have important relationships with their own furry (or feathered) friends.  Share a favorite pic of your favorite pet and maybe they’ll be named the SJAA “Pet of the Month”!  Bring on those adorable snapshots!

Updated Calendar
6/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $50 Gift Card

6/4 – AKMA Arts Fair, Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art, St Joseph MO, 1-4pm

6/11 – “Hawkfest” Blues & Jazz Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, 4:15 -5pm

6/12 – Future Stages Festival 2022, Kauffman Center, Kansas City, MO

SJAA – (Call Time 1045  Show Time 1130)

Showcase – (Call Time 1145  Show Time 1230)

6/14 – Bela Fleck “Bluegrass My Heart” Kauffman Center, Kansas City, MO

6/14 – “Fabric Fun” Art Class,  Tuesdays, begins 530pm – 3 weeks

 

 

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

 

9/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $50 Gift Card

9/18 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm – “Play More, Practice Less” Clinic, 3pm w/Jason Riley

 

10/29 – “Mall-o-ween” East Hills Mall, Halloween-themed SJAMTA student recital, 2pm

 

11/1 – “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!  Join for a chance to WIN $50 Gift Card

11/13 – SJAMTA Patriotic-themed student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

11/24 – Happy Thanksgiving! SJAA Closed

 

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

12/25 – Merry Christmas! SJAA Closed

 

2023

1/1 – Happy New Year! SJAA Closed

 

2/18 – SJAMTA “Monster Concert” Potter Fine Arts Theater, MWSU, 3pm

 

3/19 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm – Clinic, 3pm TBA

 

4/15 – SJAMTA Evaluative Auditions, Potter Hall MWSU

4/16 – SJAMTA student recital, Potter Hall MWSU, 2pm

– SJAMTA Honors Recital at 330

 

6/14 – SJAMTA Board Meeting TBA

 

7/4 – Happy Independence Day!  SJAA Closed.

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 }===:::
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.

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?

If you need a schedule change or would to be added to a waiting for a particular teacher, please contact our office and we can add you to the waiting list.  If you are not a student yet, there are still limited lessons spots available.

Andrew Holmes 630 Tuesday

Brent Isom 5 Tuesday

Claire Gerhardt

Dan Bliss 2 Monday

Darren Verbick

Emily Moss

Frank Nawrot 2 Wednesday

Hannah Dixon 530 Wednesday & Friday

Isaiah Sterling

Jason Riley

Jeremy Eaton 4 Monday

Jolie Riley

Marina Gurnovich 6 Thursday & Friday

Mary Jo Lewis Virtual

Monica King 430 Wednesday & Thursday

Terry Brock

Tyler Boone 7 Tuesday 6 Thursday

 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.
Posted in Uncategorized

Father’s Day Music Lessons – Great Gift for Dads in St. Joseph MO

Music Lessons for Dad

“Dads Rock!”

Celebrate DAD with MUSIC lessons this Father’s Day!

Something special that’s JUST FOR HIM.

Mothers day special music lessons best mothers day gift near me gifts for mothers day st joseph mo Drum lessons

Get your loved one a special gift by registering them for lessons and we can even deliver it to you for free If you can’t make it down to pick up in person. Everyone Dad loves music and having fun. We’ll do the work for you and you can save $85.00 at the same time. Get this one time a year special and we’ll prepare a special gift bag for the awesome Dad in your life to include:

Fully stuffed gift bag ready for Father’s Day (pictured) with:

-One month of lessons certificate (1st lesson free with this special).

-$25.00 music retail certificate for books and music supplies

-Jerky

-Chocolate

-Custom Cover & Practice Notebook 

-Custom Greeting Card

-Instrument specific goodies:

Drummers get drum sticks 

Guitar players get Snark tuners

Voice and piano tuners get special music theory flash cards.

-$35.00 registration voucher.

If you can’t pick it up, we’ll deliver it to you for FREE!

Value: $184.00 Your cost: only $99.00!

It’s EASY to get yours! Reply to this email, Call or text us at (816) 974-7656. 

Fill out this quick form and mention the Father’s Day promotion: https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info/

Or email us at info@stjosephartsacademy.com.

We’ll take care of the rest. Happy Father’s Day!

https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Looking for great Live music or a Live band for your event?

http://www.jasonriley.com

http://www.socajukebox.com

Posted in Uncategorized

Summer Music Lessons – St Joseph Arts Academy

ST Joseph MO Summer music lessons
Looking for something fun and rewarding for your kids to do this summer? Get them a summer MUSIC LESSON pack from the St. Joseph Arts Academy! Get your loved one a special gift by registering them for lessons and you can save $75.00 at the same time. We’ll prepare a special summer pack for the special person in your life to include:
• One month of lessons certificate

(1st lesson free with the summer special)
• $25.00 music retail certificate for books and music supplies
• St. Joseph Arts Academy Custom Practice Journal
• Instrument specific goodies: Drummers get drum sticks, Guitar players get Snark tuners, Voice and piano students get special music theory flash cards
• $35.00 registration voucher
Value: $174 | Your cost: Only $99!
It’s EASY to redeem! Contact us today and mention Facebook. You can do it online here: https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info Or call / text us at 816-974-7656. You can also stop by in person at 2021 North 36th Street St. Joseph MO 64506
Let’s make MUSIC this summer!
Posted in Uncategorized

Mother’s Day “ALOHA MOM” UKULELE SPECIAL!

“ALOHA MOM” UKULELE SPECIAL!

Gift Bag AND Ukulele (Diamond Head Concert Uke)

Value: $264.00 Your cost: only $149.00! (ONLY 6 Available!)

A Mothers day special music lessons best mothers day gift near me gifts for mothers day st joseph mo

It’s EASY to get yours! Reply to this email, Call or text us at (816) 974-7656.  

Fill out this quick form and mention the Mother’s Day promotion: https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info/ 

Or email us at info@stjosephartsacademy.com

We’ll take care of the rest. Happy Mother’s Day!

Great Mother’s Day Gift Idea – St Joseph Mo

https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Looking for great Live music or a Live band for your event?

http://www.jasonriley.com

http://www.socajukebox.com

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrate MOM with MUSIC lessons this Mother’s Day!

Mothers Day Promo png SJAA

“Mamma Mia!”

Celebrate MOM with

MUSIC lessons this Mother’s Day!

Something special that’s JUST FOR HER.

A Mothers day special music lessons best mothers day gift near me gifts for mothers day st joseph mo

Get your loved one a special gift by registering them for lessons and we can even deliver it to you for free If you can’t make it down to pick up in person. Everyone Mom loves music and feeling appreciated. We’ll do the work for you and you can save $85.00 at the same time. Get this one time a year special and we’ll prepare a special gift bag for the amazing Mom in your life to include:

Fully stuffed gift bag ready for Mother’s Day (pictured) with:

-One month of lessons certificate (1st lesson free with this special).

-$25.00 music retail certificate for books and music supplies

-Dark Chocolate

-Fresh Flower

-Custom Cover & Practice Notebook 

-Custom Greeting Card

-Instrument specific goodies:

Drummers get drum sticks 

Guitar players get Snark tuners

Voice and piano tuners get special music theory flash cards.

Art Class get sketching pencils and pastel set. (Only 6 Left!)

-$35.00 registration voucher.

If you can’t pick it up, we’ll deliver it to you for FREE!

Value: $184.00 Your cost: only $99.00!

“ALOHA MOM” UKULELE SPECIAL!

Gift Bag AND Ukulele (Diamond Head Concert Uke)

Value: $264.00 Your cost: only $149.00! (ONLY 6 Available!)

A Mothers day special music lessons best mothers day gift near me gifts for mothers day st joseph mo

It’s EASY to get yours! Reply to this email, Call or text us at (816) 974-7656.  

Fill out this quick form and mention the Mother’s Day promotion: https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info/ 

Or email us at info@stjosephartsacademy.com

We’ll take care of the rest. Happy Mother’s Day!

A Mothers day special music lessons best mothers day gift near me gifts for mothers day st joseph mo

 

https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Looking for great Live music or a Live band for your event?

http://www.jasonriley.com

http://www.socajukebox.com

Posted in Uncategorized

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 }===:::
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.

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.

Uke-Box Hero! – Intro to Ukulele Class

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Ukulele class near me music store st joseph mo art supplies todler music class near me guitar class st joseph mo

Who’s Ready to Learn a Fun New Instrument?!  “Uke Box Hero” Intro to Ukulele Class.  Join Academy director, Jason Riley for this fabulous intro into playing the Ukulele!  5 weekly, 50min sessions on Thursday evenings at 6 beginning 4/7 – 5/5.  Learn the chords, strumming, picking and reading techniques needed to play literally 100’s of familiar songs. 

Ages 8-Adult. Must have your own guitar/uke (or inquire about a rental/purchase).
Registration Deadline is 4/5.

Limited spaces available.

Call/text (816) 974-7656 or email jason@stjosephartsacademy.com to register or for more info.

Title: “Uke Box Hero” Intro to Ukulele Class

Instructor: Jason Riley

Date(s): 4/7 – 5/5

Time: 7-7:50pm

Fee: $87 ($149 includes concert uke)

Registration Deadline: 4/5

How to Register:  (Limited Spaces Available)

– Call/Text (816) 974-7656

How to Practice

How To Practice

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One definition of practice is… “a repeated exercise or performance of an activity or skill so as to acquire or maintain proficiency in it”  As in it must have taken a lot of PRACTICE to be such a good guitar player.

Doctors and lawyers are said to have a practice when carrying out the exercises and duties of their profession.  I don’t really want my doctor to be PRACTICING on me as he’s cutting me open.  I want him to PERFORM the perfect operation.

Practice can also be customary, habitual or expected procedures for something.  This could be like a meditation practice or yoga.

As musicians, we really embody each of these definitions of practice in slightly different mindsets.  The exercises needed to perform a technically challenging passage or even to get our muscle-memory together enough to play a basic chord and then a chord progression.  Music is also our field of study as in medicine or law, it IS our practice.  Hopefully it is also a thing that we’ve made a part of our day to day programming that happens habitually.  We don’t necessarily call it practice but I hope you’re planning to eat, sleep and brush your teeth today.

So what are things we should do to become a person of practice and what does it mean to practice well?  What does effective practice look like?  When are we done practicing?

It actually took me many years to discover and refine my techniques for effective practicing.  I’ve tried a number of approaches that I may touch on here.  My way doesn’t have to be your way.  You should definitely explore what best practices are for yourself.

At its most basic, practice is time set aside to do your best.  There can be many things that can distract us from the task at hand or take our mind away from our most challenging work.

Perhaps you’ve had the experience of sitting down to practice a new piece and after a few minutes you’re noodling away on favorite licks, riffs or another piece entirely (usually all things you already play pretty well).  You might even become so mesmerized in this that you actually lose track of time, not realizing that you’ve been just “playing” with your instrument for 20 minutes.  Weren’t you supposed to be “practicing”?  It’s ok to make some time just to noodle, jam or play for fun.  Set your timer though and get back to work after that time is spent.

To be truly successful in your practicing you need to have a purpose or goal and be on a time schedule.  We all have the feeling that we want to become “a better guitarist” but that is not what I mean by purpose.  The purpose of your practice should be topical (learn a new scale fingering, accompaniment style or arrangement) and should be scheduled for a certain amount of time.

My personal practice usually involves a few topics.  These are places in my playing where I’m trying to “grow”.  I use many of these same areas and methods with all my students no matter the age or level of achievement.  Topics include things like technique, scale and chord vocabulary, sight reading, pieces/songs/tunes, ear-training and memorization.  There are many more I have included over the years again depending on what my purpose was at the time or where I felt I had some weaknesses.  Theory, performance practices, history, improvisation and just time to listen to music are all things I’ve put time into.  I want to grow in all these areas in deeper ways.

So let’s make some time to practice.  Put it in your schedule.  Write it on the calendar.  A little time everyday.  The famous Japanese music mentor, Shinichi Suzuki said you should only practice the “days you sleep and the days you eat”!  I think that’s great advice.  We all will miss a day now and again and that’s understood.  You may want to set your weekly practice schedule up to include a “skip day”.  That’s an important “practice” in some religious circles.  Also, it can be a nice reward especially for younger students who really work hard all week.

The amount of time each day is not as important to me as just the “every day”.  If you practice with a purpose everyday you will get better.  A lot has been said in the past few years that it takes 10,000 hours to become a master at anything.  Free-throws, heart surgery, flower arranging, etc.  You’ll be come the “master” faster by practicing 3 hours everyday as opposed to 10 minutes obviously.  Mastery is the fruit of purposeful practice.  No need to worry about the fruit.  It will come at the right time and in the right season.  Your practice is in taking care of the tree.  Prune it and water it with the time you have today and schedule it again tomorrow.  Do that and you’re doing the best you can.

10 hours a day for 3 years = Your the master!

3 hours a day for 10 years = Your the master!

1 hours a day for 30 years = Your the master!

I will say that in my experience it takes at least 20 minutes of practice just to kind of stay at the place you left off yesterday.  If you don’t use it (and use it again) you’ll lose it.

I use the timer in my practice (and a tuner, a metronome, books and music, a music stand,  and a pencil but the timer is VERY important).  It keeps you on task.  If you are playing a game like basketball, that game is timed.  You have a certain amount of time to play with a purpose of making points for your team, defending against the opposing team and doing your very best.  Then there’s a buzzer that signals the end of play, maybe the 1/2, the 1/4 or the end of the game.  The point here is that you did your very best, you kept your head in the game and now it’s over.

My music practice is very much like that.  I start the time and work on an a-lotted task for a certain amount of time.  This is usually very short, between 2-20 minutes per task.  This has two benefits.  One, I know that I have to do my best for a very short time.  Not hammering away for hours, just minutes.  Two, if I do get distracted or get off task and do some mindless noodling, it reminds me to come back to the project and work until the buzzer goes off.  With my students, I even give them pretend “points” for perfect repetition of the material.  One perfectly played scale = 10 points or 100 or whatever.  They may have only 3 minutes to make as many points as possible.  It’s a little mind game but it works really well, gets them to do their best and make a many perfect reps as the time allows.

Again, there are number of important topics that go into building musical proficiency.  You might just pick a few each day to devote your time to.  When that buzzer goes off or time is up, move on to the next topic and start the timer again.  Depending on the amount of time you’ve set aside for practice, you could do more or less.  Remember, less in more in many instances.

As an example, If we had an hour to practice, I would start with a slow warm-up for maybe 10 minutes.  We could move on to scales for 10, Chords for 10, sight reading for 10 and maybe one piece we’re working on for 10 minutes.  It wouldn’t have to be the entire piece, lots of times its just a few measures or specific trouble areas.  Then you could take a little break.  Lots of performing musicians take set breaks too!

If that was all the time you had for the day, you could be done and go on with your life.  If you had additional time (perhaps another hour) I would start with that routine again and repeat it.  If you have less time maybe on a very busy day, you could get a 10 minute practice in on just two or three really important ideas at 3-5 minutes each.  Hey, we can all find 10 minutes even on a busy day, right?  The important thing is that you’re doing it on purpose and you’re proving to yourself that you’re disciplined, dedicated and committed to your advancing musicianship.

If you’re making a lot of mistakes while practicing, you are probably going too fast or trying to practice too much.  This is a common problem and it does take a lot of discipline to slow down and work on very small or short musical problems.

Truly effective practice is practice with a purpose.  That purpose is different for everyone and adjusted to the topic you’re working on.  You might have a goal to play a C major scale in 1/8th notes at 160bpm.  You might want to learn a new jazz standard every week.  You may need work on that one measure that always messes you up in that Bach prelude.  Your purpose is to fix, add or increase in your abilities as they apply to your goals in music.

Here’s a few other ideas about what practice is and what it can do for you.

 

Practice is..

Motivational – The more you do it, the more you want to.

How we learn – Things seep in over time through repetition.  We learn by doing.

Transformative – Makes things better through attention and intention.

Reducing Imperfection – Unlearning bad habits or replacing them with good habits.

The way to Carnegie Hall – “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?  Practice.”

Infectious – A little can lead to a lot.

Love – It demonstrates your affection for what you are practicing.

To Overcome – Limitations and small expectations.

Making Mastery – 10,000 hours.

Confidence building – When you’ve put in the time to know what you’re doing and you know it.

Non-judgmental? – Do it when you feel good or bad.  When it’s time to fight, you have to do it no matter what mood you’re in.

Persistence – No matter what happens, just keep plowing ahead.

What you become – Like the doctor or lawyer, you are what you practice most.

Life Enhancing – Just do it, you’ll be glad you did.

A Teacher – It encourages us on the path of discovery.  It shows you what it and what it might become.

Truth – It’s where you find out what’s real for you.  Where you are on the path.

Application – Using what you know, at the right time, when you need it.

For Champions and Masters – They all did it.  I promise.

Not Easy – It feels like work sometimes, ok all the time.

Acceptance – Forgive yourself for not being automatically perfect.  You’re getting closer.

Purposeful – Practice with a purpose in mind.  Practice because you’ve got to.  it’s the only way.

Cultivating – The tree that your fruit comes from.

An Inner Game – The only competition is within.  The only real competition is in the mirror.

Tomorrow’s Victory – “Tomorrow’s victory is today’s practice – Chris Bradford, The Way of the Warrior.

Development – The garden grows best when it’s weeded and tended to.  True in all things like love, forgiveness, patience and giving.

Preparation – To being and doing what you want to be and do.

Practice is… THE WAY.

Practice Makes Perfect?

Practice Makes Permanent

Practice Makes Possible

Practice Makes Possibilities

Practice Makes Patience

Practice Makes Partnerships

Practice Makes Playing Possible

Practice Makes Pathways

Practice Makes Progress

Practice Makes Proficient

Practice Makes Professional

Practice Makes Proof

Practice Makes Practical

Practice Makes Precedence

Practice Makes Prepared

Practice Makes Purpose

Practice Makes Perception

Practice Makes Performers

Summary – Whatever you can imagine or aspire to do, you can do that in music (or anything almost) through focused practice over time.  I aspired to play music.  I’ve never really felt that I had any great or natural talent to do so.  Everything that I’ve accomplished in music and on my instrument has just been through hard work, smart work, time and persistence.  In short, practice.

While I may never be a ballet dancer or professional football player because of my physical build (not that I’m inspired to become one).  Through practice and study, I could learn the techniques, I could get better, I would grow.

It’s truly amazing what human beings can accomplish given enough time.

Special Offer – If you found this article helpful, please consider subscribing, drop us a note or consider joining us on the path to mastery.  The St. Joseph Arts Academy is a resource for all things musical.  We are here to support and encourage you along your musical path.  Now…

GO PRACTICE!

“How to Practice”

By Jason Riley

http:www.jasonriley.com 

 

https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Looking for great Live music or a Live band for your event?

http://www.jasonriley.com

http://www.socajukebox.com

Pick-Up Notes – February 2022 Newsletter

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

Hi Everybody.  It’s Jason Riley here, Director of the St Joseph Arts Academy, the areas fastest growing and largest music school!

I want to thank all our teachers, staff and especially you, our students and families for making that a reality for us and our community.  Thank you.

Now…

Are you off to a great new year in 2022?

We have started strong at the SJAA with lots of great events and experiences on the schedule for ’22!

The biggest news, celebrations and simple updates are all below.

Lots, lots, LOTS of fun stuff, current and upcoming classes and special events.
IN THIS MONTH’S NEWSLETTER…

Important Upcoming Dates
200th Student!
Family Safety Plan
We’re Going to Graceland!
Welcome New Students

… AND MORE!

Thank you for sharing your family with us at the Academy!

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
Please FORWARD this email to friends or family who might be interested in SJAA activities, music lessons, art classes or special events.
Celebrations!
200th Student! – 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!

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!

SJAA turns 4! – We celebrated our 4th anniversary in our commercial space on January 8th this year.  Easy to remember as it’s always on Elvis’ birthday (coincidence?).  We’ve come a long way from our humble beginning here with 2 rooms, 2 teachers and about 35 guitar students.  Thanks to all who have supported us as we grow this baby!

Welcome Jeremy Eaton! – So happy to welcome Mr. J to our amazing faculty!!!  Jeremy’s schedule filled up quickly with great students in piano, voice & trumpet.  A multi-faceted and inspiring person and teacher.  Welcome, Jeremy!

Teacher Appreciation – We celebrated our teachers in an informal dinner at Jake’s Steakhouse in January.  Fun to get together and talk shop (yes, we talk about our students successes and challenges and work together for all hands/minds on deck!).  We’ve got the best team and it’s a joy to show them how much we truly appreciate them.  AND.. the love continues this week with Teacher’s Cookie Week!  More sugar anyone?

Happy Valentines Day! – We had a great valentines week (and it still continues!).  Granny prepared over 200 treat bags for the students we love.  Games and fun to win holiday, solar Bobble heads and a “guess the number of candies” in the Valentine’s Jar contest.  Congrats to Tara and Breanna for their closest guess without going over!  120 candies per jar!!  Let’s continue to share the love all year ’round, shall we?

Monster Concert – Congratulations to the students of Mr. Verbick and Mrs. Riley who joined the “largest piano ensemble around” in last weekend’s 42nd Annual SJAMTA Young Monster Concert at MWSU.  A great experience for everyone involved and the performance was simply top-notch.  Way to go, guys!

“We’re Going to Graceland” – Academy Director, Jason Riley will join hundreds of leading music academy owners from around the country for an educational conference at the home of “the King of Rock-n-Roll” in early April.

Missouri Bicentennial Highlights – We recently submitted this highlight reel for consideration in some very special upcoming festival opportunities (stay tuned).  Showcasing individuals and ensembles from last year’s MO bicentennial celebration.  Here if you want to check it out!  https://fb.watch/bcVw6zZ_YK/

Restroom Remodel – Super happy to announce our final remodel is complete.  Restroom #1 finally got a “floor lift”, a new vanity and some fresh paint.  We like it!

Google Reviews – 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.

google review link

https://g.page/r/CZvsJULwejcCEAg/review

Thank you!!

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

One of the things that is most important us as an school of fine arts is keeping our students, families, staff and teachers safe.  We follow and belong to the initiative called FamilySafetyPlan.org.  This is a nationwide program.  It’s a pledge that music schools take to keep their students safe by doing various security procedures.  So, just having glass on every door, office staff present, during every lesson, open door policy,  background checks on every teacher, a lot of great stuff, and we’re very dedicated.  We have a great track record of keeping our students safe because it’s so important to us.  Check it out.  It’s a great read, FamilySafetyPlan.org.
Welcome to our Newest Students!
Wesson, Calvin, Cameron, John, Kathryn, Grace, Parker, Daisy, Grace, Brooklyn, Hatcher, Claire, Anna, Ray, Rainier, Zavan, August, Jacob, Alex, Michael, Stephanie, Ira, Liam, Finley, Carter, Kyler, Cyrus, Tonie, Bradley, Ron, Roman, Dirk, Hudson, Nehemiah, Zachary, Tara, Cord, Grace, Olivia, Kaden & Dylan!
Upcoming GROUP CLASSES @ the SJAA in 2021

“Play More, Practice Less!”

Effective Practicing Clinic

Date(s):  Saturday, Feb. 19

Time:  2pm

FREE and open to all instruments and open to the public

(Limited Spaces Available!)

Register today!  – Call/Text (816) 974-7656

Email jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

Facebook Messenger @stjosephartsacademy

www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info

Open to All Instruments (and Voice!).

www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info

Early Childhood Music Registration

Ages 2-4 years – Register now for “MUSIC PLAY” Toddler Music classes at the SJAA.

6 weekly sessions for just $99.

Saturdays at 11am  from Mar. 19 – April 23.
Limited space available.
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com or call (816) 974-7656


Clay – Mania!
“Clay Mania!” DIY Clay Sculpture Classes

Got a young artist who wants to get hands-on, creating, molding, shaping and painting?

Date(s):  6 weekly, 50 minute sessions,  March 1 – April 5, 2022

Time:  530pm-620pm

Just $99! (includes materials)

Registration Deadline:   2/25/22

(Limited Spaces Available!)

Register today!  Message us Here or…

– Call/Text (816) 974-7656

Email jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

Facebook Messenger @stjosephartsacademy

www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info

Description –

Making three different types of clay with ingredients that can be found at home. With the clay, we will create a small piggy bank, wall pocket sculptures, and beads/pendants for jewelry or keychains. This will be a 6 week class, 60 minutes each.

This would be best for 4th-9th grade, but can be flexible.


“Guitar Mania!”

“Intro to Guitar” Class

Join Academy Director, Jason Riley in getting started on the right foot (finger) with your guitar playing in this fun and accessible class.
6 weekly, 50 min sessions and includes materials.  Must have your own guitar (or inquire about a rental).
Ages 8 – Adult.  Thursdays at 7pm, Mar. 31 – May 5.

jason@stjosephartsacademy.com or call (816) 974-7656

Limited space available.

#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our February “Student of the Month” is…

Parker S.!!

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

Parker is 12 years old and lives with his family in Savannah. Parker has performed in Adams Family Jr., Matilda Jr., Guys and Dolls Jr., and is busy rehearsing for March 2022 performances of Xanadu and Shrek Jr. When he’s not on the stage, Parker drives quarter midget race cars  and enjoys hanging out with his friends.  His favorite color is pink and he wants to be an entrepreneur.  He is a vocal student of Monica King at the SJAA.

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

Thank you, Parker 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.

We’re Hiring!

Exceptional Staff & Instructors.

www.StJosephArtsAcademy.Com/Apply

We’re Hiring!  Exceptional Instructors and Staff.

Private & Group Coaches instructing…

PIano, Guitar, Violin & Strings, Voice & Singing, Drums, Band Instruments, Art, Early Childhood, Tutoring and More!  Apply NOW!

Benefits of Coaching with the St Joseph Arts Academy… Excellent Pay, Flexible Hours, Part of a Great Team, Rewarding Work, Valuable Experience & Support.

“Play More, Practice Less!” Free Practice Clinic Saturday Feb. 19, 2pm!  Call or email to register.  Limited spaces available.
Upcoming Events2022 
1/1 – Happy New Year – SJAA closed.

1/22 – “Music Play” Saturdays, 11am begins 6 weeks (ages 2-4)

1/22 – Teacher Appreciation Event, Jake’s Steakhouse, 6pm

2/3 – “Guitar Mania” Thursdays, Intro to Guitar Class begins 7pm – 6 weeks

2/7 – “Guitar Mania” Mondays, Intro to Guitar Class begins 7pm – 6 weeks

2/12 – SJAMTA “Monster Concert” Potter Fine Arts Theater, MWSU, 3pm

2/19  – “Play More, Practice Less” Clinic w/Jason Riley, SJAA, 2pm FREE

2/22 – “Clay Mania” Tuesdays, Sculpture Art Class begins 530pm – 6 weeks

3/12 – SJAMTA Pre-Contest Vocal Clinic, Times TBA

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

3-19 – “Music Play” Saturdays, 11am begins 6 weeks (ages 2-4)

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

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/

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 -“Pick-up 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.  Referring AND referred students are entered in a monthly drawing for a $50 Amazon Gift Card!  Thank you for referring your friends and family to the Academy.

Does Your Teacher Have Openings?

If you need a schedule change or would to be added to a waiting for a particular teacher, please contact our office and we can add you to the waiting list.  If you are no a student yet there are still limited lessons spots available.

Jolie – SOLD OUT
Terry – SOLD OUT
Frank – Wednesdays TWO SPOT LEFT
Isaiah – Monday ONE SPOT LEFT
– Tuesdays ONE SPOT LEFT
– Thursdays ONE SPOT LEFT
Dan – Mondays ONE SPOT LEFT
Jeremy – SOLD OUT
Marina – Mondays ONE SPOT LEFT
– Thursdays ONE SPOT LEFT
– Fridays ONE SPOT LEFT
Andrew – Tuesdays ONE SPOT LEFT
Emily – Mondays ONE SPOT LEFT
Monica – Mondays ONE SPOT LEFT
– Thursdays ONE SPOT LEFT
Brent –  SOLD OUT
Claire – Tuesdays ONE SPOT LEFT
– Fridays ONE SPOT LEFT
Tyler – Thursday TWO SPOT LEFT
Darren – Wednesday ONE SPOT LEFT
– Thursday ONE SPOT LEFT
Mary Jo – Virtual ONE SPOT LEFT
Jason – SOLD OUT

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

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!

https://www.stjosephartsacademy.com

Looking for great Live music or a Live band for your event?

http://www.jasonriley.com

http://www.socajukebox.com

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