Posts by jason riley

Music Lessons Near Me St. Joseph MO

Posted on by jason riley

When seeking music lessons near me in St. Joseph Mo you can trust the expert instructors at the St. Joseph Arts Academy.

We offer high quality, private lessons in guitar, piano, drums, voice, ukulele and have an excellent strings programs with violin and cello.

Occasionally,  students will ask for lessons in mandolin, banjo, harmonica and electric bass and we can accommodate those instruments too.

The Academy offers other special clinics and group classes in guitar and ukulele.  Our annual Maestro series offers masterclasses and other presentations from a visiting guest artist.

Our early childhood music program is one of the most important things we can do for our community.  Music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers advance the brain and social development for our littlest learners and get them started with the life-long benefits of music early.

So whenever you are looking for music lessons “near me”, we hope it will be easy to find the St. Joseph Arts Academy online here or at the Academy Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/stjosephartsacademy

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

The Write Notes – August 2020

Posted on by jason riley
Dear Students and families,

Ready or not.  With kids being away from classrooms since mid-March, the return to school looks a little different for all of us.

While many are eager to return in-person to their friends and their teachers some have opted to home school or study virtually.  (I’m not really fond of the “virtual” description for online-learning.  I prefer “actual” and we all expect our students to “actually” learn some great stuff however the lessons are delivered.)

While most of our students have returned to in-person lessons, we still are able to teach music online to those who choose.  In fact, we have teachers dedicated to online music education for students who simply need it. And, if needed the SJAA could make the switch to online music lessons as a whole simply and quickly.

It will continue to be safety first around here.  Our waiting areas are technically still “closed” for the time being and we remain diligent.  Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.  The SJAA is dedicated to making any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.  

Hope you’ll stay tuned with us as we have a lot of big things ahead for our students.  

Special performance opportunities, contests and more.  We are always working towards something fun and rewarding.

Wishing you and your whole family the very best in the days back to school.  Hope it’s a great year for all.

Thank you!

jason and SJAA
816 294 4856 (personal cell for call or text)jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
  Join or Share us on Facebook/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! 

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.  They just fill in your name on the “How did you hear about us?” section at registration and we’ll credit you!
Celebrations!
 New Teacher! – Welcoming Mrs. Erin Lippincott and her family to the SJAA!  Erin is joining us in our growing our Early Childhood Music programs as well as some new offerings in Arts, Crafts and some fun things for JUST for GROWN-UPS!  We are so excited to have Erin on our team and can’t wait for her to share her music and art with Academy students and families.

Silver & Gold Banquet – We took a crack squad of singers and guitarists out for the monthly Silver and Gold Banquet.  Ethan, Molly, Alex and Ashlynplayed an extended set of features and ensemble pieces in this “live stream” performance.

You can see it here…
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=958059241338271&extid=4vz3zma8VO9t9yAO




New Website! – Ye Ol’ Dotcom is getting a facelift!  Coming soon to the WWW.
Welcome to our Newest Students!
Lilliana, Ellie, Scarlett, Amaliya, Breesa, Nataly, Bianca, Natalia, Andrew, Reese, Justin & Ken!GROUP CLASSES @ the SJAA

Early Childhood Music RegistrationRegister now for “MUSIC FUN” Toddler Music classes at the SJAA.

6 weekly sessions for just $99.Monday morning classes at 10am from Sept. 14 to Oct. 19.
Tuesday evening classes at 630pm from Sept 15 to Oct 20Limited space available.  Ages 2-4 yearsjason@stjosephartsacademy.com or call (816) 974-7656
 Early Childhood ART RegistrationRegister now for “ART FUN” Toddler Art classes at the SJAA.4 weekly sessions and materials for just $99.Thursday morning classes at 11am from Sept. 17 to Oct. 8.
Saturday morning classes at 930am from Sept 19 to Oct 10jason@stjosephartsacademy.com or call (816) 974-7656

Limited space available.FREE “Intro to Guitar” ClassJoin Academy Director, Jason Riley in getting started on the right foot (finger) with your guitar playing in this fun and accessible class.  
1 hour session and includes materials.  Must have your own guitar (or inquire about a rental).
All ages welcome.  Saturday, October 3 at 10amjason@stjosephartsacademy.com or call (816) 974-7656Limited space available.



“ART DARE”

Double-dog-dare-you classes just for adults coming in Oct., Nov., & Dec.  Fun, seasonal painting and gift ideas workshops.
TBA
#MusicAccomplished


Student of the MonthOur August “Student of the Month” is…Zoe M.!!!

We are so lucky to have Zoe and her family with us at the SJAA.
 
She is going to be a 3rd grader this year and loves playing her violin (student of Mr. Brock), the piano, and doing crafts! Zoe enjoys playing with her siblings, playing sports, spending time with her family, and wants to be a teacher when she grows up.

We love that about you, Zoe!We’ll celebrate Zoe with an Amazon gift card for her!Thank you, Zoe 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.Come by and take a selfie with our “fireworks” window theme (where “Hamilton” is not throwing away his shot!) for the Community Commerce Quest presented by the Missouri Business Podcast.  “Tag” the SJAA Facebook page and the MBP for a chance to win vacation trips to amazing locations.
SJAA’s Upcoming Recitals 9/26 – “Bluegrass Battles Hunger”, TBA Coleman Hawkins Park10/11 – Photo Day @ SJAA, times/venue TBA

10/17 – “Music Moves Us Together” Fall Online Music Recital, video submission deadline10/17 – “Mall-o-ween” 2pm Halloween-themed SJAMTA student recital12/5 – “Mall-a-thon” 10am-4pm at East Hills Mall (SJAA time slot MORNING TBA)12-19 – Beethoven’s 250 Birthday
2021  2/20 – TBA SJAMTA Monster Concert3/7 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital, Violin Masterclass, 3pm TBA, MWSU4/10 – SJAMTA Evaluatives, MWSU4/11 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital, MWSU
3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian 6/11-12 – “Hawkfest” Blues & Jazz Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, TBA8/20-21 – MO Bicentennial Civic Center Park, TBA
TBA – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”SJAA Specific Events in BOLD
HATS!

We’ve got our first order of SJAA ball caps with our new logo!  In Red, Black, Tan & Navy.  Just $15!


Books!Is your student ready for new books? We carry a very limited supply of instructor approved titles. Talk with your teacher about your next books and we’ll get them ordered.

 Who remembers music videos?  Do they still make them?

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.pdfThank 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 }===:::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 – Mondays 430, Wednesday 630
Brent – Tuesday 5, Thursday 6
Mary Jo – Tuesday 4 & 530
Will – Monday 5 & 630
Jason – Full
Jennifer – Cello Coming Soon!

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Ukulele, Drums, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric Bass,  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://teacherzone.com
Free Wi-Fi – SJAA password “MusicAccomplished”

Academy MissionOur 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 © 2020 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved. 

Early Childhood Music Classes

Posted on by jason riley

SJAA MUSIC Classes

Early Childhood Classes ages 1-3 called “Early Music Academy”

6 weeks for $99, 30-45 minutes, 4-8 students AND parents (6 during COVID)

Goals: participate, “singing” voice, gross motor actions mimicked, react to music through movement, learn high/low, learn fast/slow, learn music abcs, craft (playdough/drawing)

DESCRIPTION: Does your young one bounce and sway when they hear music? Do they “sing” for you? This class introduces music in a fun and active way to increase exposure in young children in an interactive format with their parents jumping in on the fun! Sessions do not repeat content and can be taken for consecutive sessions.

 

Session 1: SATURDAYS       11am                Emily

 

 

Questions to ask: Can your child sit unassisted? Can your child hold objects confidently? Does your child “sing” along with music? Does your child struggle with separation anxiety?  Has your child been in a class setting before? (this would determine if a 3 is ready for next level)

Tools to use: scarves, jingle bells, egg shakers, rhythm sticks

 

-Opening Song: Hello Song (can you clap your hands/stop your feet/turn around/all sit down)

-Ending Song: Goodnight *name* from Music Man “We’ll see you here next time/We hope you come again”

Classes will be themed for each week.

 

Toddler Music Classes called “Music Fun Academy” ages 2-4

6 weeks for $99, 45-50minutes, 4-10 students AND parents (6 during COVID)

Goals: pitch match within medium range some notes, repeat back 4-8 beats of rhythm correctly, gross motor holding instruments and making a beat, fine motor actions mimicked, can start to sing along; know high/low, fast/slow, music ABCs

DESCRIPTION: Has your child had experience in other classes and now they want to explore music? This class incorporates different elements of music to build a solid foundation for lifelong appreciation and learning of music. Parents can watch or participate depending on each child’s ability. Sessions do not repeat content and can be taken for consecutive sessions.

 

2: MONDAYS                10am                Erin

2: TUES                  6:00pm             Erin

 

 

Holiday classes  ($20)                     10am will include sleigh bells, Christmas and Hanukkah songs and books

 

ALL Classes: Welcome Song, chat, Movement Song (free movement/freeze dance/march), Action Song/Fingerplay, Book, Instrument play Song/Exploration, Education Song, Beats/Rhythms, Repeat Song, Closing Song & CRAFT

Each Session: 3 Movement Songs, 3 Action Songs, 3 song books, 1 composer book, 2 instrument books, 1-2 weeks exploring world instruments, occasional make and take an instrument home, stick work for beats, 2 education songs, 3 repeat songs

Tools to use: Scarves, rhythm sticks, shaker eggs, jingle bells/tambourine, maracas, sandpaper blocks

 

PRE-School aged Classes called “Super Music Academy” ages 4-5

6 weeks for $99, 45-50minutes, 4-10 students and parents (6 during COVID)

Prerequisite of Music Fun

Goals: can memorize whole songs and rhythm, pitch matches most notes, can make a steady beat

 

2: TUES                  7:00pm             Erin      *these could be super art*

3: TUES       7:00pm             Erin

Music class rotations for school year: SIX Sessions total

ALL Classes: Welcome Song, chat, Movement Song (free movement/freeze dance/march), Action Song/Fingerplay, Book, Instrument play Song/Exploration, Education Song, Beats/Rhythms, Repeat Song, Closing Song & CRAFT.

Each Session: 3 Movement Songs, 3 Action Songs, 3 song books, 1 composer book, 2 instrument books, 1-2 weeks exploring world instruments, make and take an instrument home, stick work for beats, 2 education songs, 3 repeat songs

Tools to use: Scarves, beat sticks, shaker eggs, jingle bells/tambourine, maracas, sandpaper blocks

Offering quality piano, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, voice, bass, drums, violin, cello, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, early childhood music lessons and art classes in St. Joseph, MO.

St Joseph Arts Academy • (816) 974-7656

Now Hiring GREAT Teachers! Request info here.

https://stjosephartsacademy.com
http://www.jasonriley.com
http://www.socajukebox.com

The Write Notes – July 2020

Posted on by jason riley
Dear Students and Families,As July winds down, I know we are all thinking about “Back to School” and fall schedules.  Only one thing is really certain.  It’s going to be a different kind of fall semester.

We are still making some big decisions at our house about how to make the best of things.

I’m proud to say (that with the support of our students, families and SJAA team) the Academy has truly made the most out of every possibility during Covid-19.

And we are not letting down.  It will continue to be safety first around here.  Our protection plans, safety and cleaning protocols are constant, continuous and on-going.  We remain fluid to any needed changes and in tune with local and state guidelines.

While most students and teachers are back for in-person lessons, our waiting rooms are still officially closed to keep contacts down.  We are still offering online lessons.  We know that in case of any emergencies we could make online transitions quickly and without missing a beat.

AND… we are getting a lot of work done and having some fun too!  SJAA students ALWAYS have something they are working towards.  Live stream and in-person recitals and rescheduled summer festival performances, Summer practice challenge, Songwriting Festival, coloring contests, clinics and more.

The SJAA simply keeps working, improving our spaces, seeking ways to serve our families highest needs and creating an incubator for all things musical, creative, positive and encouraging in St. Joe.

Check it out below!  Lots of “good news” here.  Some important info and fun stuff too.

Thanks for sharing the SJAA with your friends and family.

Here’s to a great “Back to School” season.  We are here for you.

Thank you!

jason and SJAA
816 294 4856 (personal cell for call or text)

jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
Celebrations!

Ashlyn Ford Live Stream Concert – Our very own Miss Ashlyn Ford will be performing as part of a special online concert series presented by our friends at Lanham Music.  She’ll be singing and strumming guitar & ukulele on a variety of great music. Watch the stream live from the Lanham’s Facebook page at 6pm on Friday August 7.

Summer Coloring Contest! – Our July coloring contest page was created especially for us by our 2019 winner, Anna C.!   Thanks to everyone who participated in bringing a little color to the Academy this summer.

Congratulations to Cash A. selected to win the $25 grand prize!

It was a tough decision with so many great pages.  Love the work by our “honorable mentions”.  They are all winners!

Emma L., Felicity M., Maeby B., Hank J. & Gwen J!
Summer Practice Challenge

Just 2 Days Left!!!

This summer, SJAA coaches have been talking EXTRA to our students about practicing.  Pretty much every week, year ’round.But especially during THIS summer “break”.


Students who complete the Challenge until July 31 will be rewarded with a special SJAA lesson journal and cover, gift certificate, recognition and other fun prizes.

We are also offering $25 Grand Prizes to top practice hours by age groups…
Early Elementary K-3
Later Elementary 4-6
Middle School
High School
& Adult

The student with the most summer practice hours will win a $50 gift certificate.
Should any student exceed 60+ hours of practice this summer (professional practice level), they will receive a $100 gift certificate!

Fill out this practice log daily (or create your own) or login in to your student TeacherZone account and use the practice timer for accurate reporting.

Practice Log

Keep it up until July 31!

SJAA NEWS

St. Joseph “Cello” Academy – Taking new registrations for Cello beginning in August.  Strings are one of our most important specialties at the SJAA.  We are super excited to have Jennifer Lochhead joining our amazing team of string pros as a dedicated Cello specialist.  info@stjosephartsacademy.com

The Arts are Blooming! – We are getting a Mural!  Thanks to our friend and amazing muralist, Josh Hamilton for sharing his work with us on our Academy wall.  Still a work in progress but it’s already inspiring our students, our neighbors and our community.

Student Portraits – Thanks to Ty at Tyler Osborn Studios for the photography and delivery of these extraordinary prints of our students from photo day 2019.  True pieces of art, professionally matted and beautifully framed, they are now hung (carefully) in our classroom and waiting spaces.  We love them.
Welcome to our Newest Students!

Bailey, Mariah, Jacey & Brooklyn!
GROUP CLASSES @ the SJAA

Early Childhood Music Registration

Register now for Fall “ECM” at the SJAA.

Saturday classes at 11am from Aug. 8 to Sept. 12

Limited space available.  Ages 1-3 years

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


“Uke-Box Heroes”

“Hang Loose” with Jason Riley & Become a “Uke-Box Hero”!

FREE Ukulele Class and Jam session for ALL ages.  Includes materials but must have your own Uke.

Saturday, Aug. 8, 1pm.

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

Limited space available.

“Intro to Guitar” Group Class

Join Academy Director, Jason Riley in getting started on the right foot (finger) with your guitar playing in this fun and accessible class.
$99 includes (6) 1 hour session and materials.  Must have your own guitar (or inquire about a rental).
Thursdays at 6pm, Aug 6- Sept 10.

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

Limited space available.
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our July “Student of the Month” is…

Taylor C.!!!

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

Besides studying voice with Mrs. Emily, she loves all things theater.  She just recently finished performing a leading role in the Adams Family and stepped into a position in Frozen Jr at the last minute.  She rocked them both. Taylor would like to be on Broadway someday!

We’ll celebrate Taylor with a 5-Below gift card for her!

Thank you, Taylor 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.
Come by and take a selfie with our “fireworks” window theme (where “Hamilton” is not throwing away his shot!) for the Community Commerce Quest presented by the Missouri Business Podcast.  “Tag” the SJAA Facebook page and the MBP for a chance to win vacation trips to amazing locations.
SJAA’s Upcoming Recitals 

7/31 – Summer Practice Challenge Deadline

8/7 – Ashlyn Ford in Concert, Lanham Music, 6pm

8/8 – “Uke-Box Heroes, 1pm, SJAA

8/19 – Silver and Gold Banquet, 11:30 – 12:30, Meierhoffer Community Room

9/19 – Hawkfest, 130pm, Coleman Hawkins Park

9/20 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital, MWSU

9/26 – “Bluegrass Battles Hunger”, TBA Coleman Hawkins Park

10/11 – Photo Day @ SJAA, times/venue TBA

10/24-25 – “Mall-o-ween” 2pm Halloween-themed SJAMTA student recital

11/15 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital, MWSU

12/5 – “Mall-a-thon” 10am-4pm at East Hills Mall (SJAA time slot MORNING TBA)

12-19 – Beethoven’s 250 Birthday

2021

 

2/20 – TBA SJAMTA Monster Concert

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

4/10 – SJAMTA Evaluatives, MWSU

4/11 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital, MWSU
3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian

TBA – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”

SJAA Specific Events in BOLD
HATS!

We’ve got our first order of SJAA ball caps with our new logo!  In Red, Black, Tan & Navy.  Just $15!

Books!Is your student ready for new books? We carry a very limited supply of instructor approved titles. Talk with your teacher about your next books and we’ll get them ordered.
Who are these masked guitar ninjas?  You can almost hear the “Covid County Country Shuffle” ringing in the summer breeze.
Taking our precautions but still having some fun!
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 -“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.  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 – Mondays 430, Wednesday 630
Brent – Tuesday 5, Thursday 6
Mary Jo – Tuesday 4 & 530
Will – Monday 5 & 630
Jason – Full
Jennifer – Cello Coming Soon!

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Uke, Drums, Early Childhood, Group Guitar

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://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 © 2020 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.
You are a preferred member of the SJAA!

The Write Notes – May 2020

Posted on by jason riley
Dear Students and Families,

Another month behind us in these ‘novel’ times.  The school year is all wrapped up.  Folks are starting to cautiously emerge from quarantine and locally businesses are slowly opening back up to customers.

Thankfully to you, our SJAA families and staff, we’ve been able to stay on mission and have weathered this very positively.

It’s had me thinking a little deeper about the word “dedication“.  Of course, as teachers we are supremely dedicated to our students, their musical growth and their development as amazing people.  Our students have remained dedicated to their instrument, their study of music and in participating fully with the opportunities they have here and beyond.  Our SJAA member families have remained dedicated to the purpose of prioritizing music training to their loved ones, to their beloved teachers and to our Academy in a time when it might have been easier to walk away.

That’s a wonderful kind of dedication.

I got to thinking about another kind of dedication.  The type that an author puts in the beginning of their book or the way a musician or composer might dedicate a piece of music to a city, a king or simply “dedicated to the one I love”.

We haven’t really stated it before.  I hope that it goes without saying.

Our academy is a dedication.  Dedicated to the advancing musicians and their families in our community.  But also, dedicated in a tribute to them.

The St. Joseph Arts Academy is dedicated to you.  In every way the word can be used.  It’s strong language that reminds us, pushes and pulls at us to dig a little deeper and to give a little more.

I know I’ll be talking to my own students this week about dedicating their music, their next performance, even their practice time towards something beyond themselves.

There’s important info below about how we are beginning to come back in-person for those who are ready.

And, we’ve had lots to celebrate this month too.

Dedicating the Summer of 2020 to our songwriters, composers and every student committed to growing in their music practice.

Thank you, << Test First Name >>!

jason and SJAA

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to message me directly at…
816 294 4856 (cell)
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
Our SJAA Covid-19 Protection Plan

Since mid-March, the SJAA has been open for ONLINE LESSONS only.  Our commercial building has been receiving continued improvements but with little to no public traffic.

Members are invited back for in-person lessons beginning Monday, June 1.  

NOT MANDATORY.  We are expecting a mix of both on-line and in-person lessons for the for-see-able future.  Personal decisions are respected and up to the individual teacher or family. 

We will have both sides of our building open so we have plenty of space now for everyone to spread out.

Our safety plan is based on city and state requirements as well as member feedback from our “Returning from Quarantine” Survey (It’s still available and we want all the feedback we can get.  It only takes a couple of minutes.  https://forms.gle/hWyjwkJRYzGTBo9B7

Safety Plan

a) Families should expect to wait in cars until exact lesson time.  Students ONLY should go directly to their studio.  (ONE) Guardian/parent/chaperone is always welcome to sit in on lessons if requested or required (specifically for our littlest learners).

b) Waiting areas will remain closed until further notice.  We’ll aim to keep our population under 10 at a time.

c) Students and teachers should do their best to stay “socially distant” (6 feet not 100% possible for some instruments 100% of the time).

d) Face masks are optional unless designated by the Teacher or requested from the family.

e) Teachers (and students) use the available hand sanitzer (or bring their own) liberally and between lessons.   We have 3 sinks for hand washing.

f)  Bathrooms, hand washing stations, all entry ways and studio door handles will be disinfected nightly (and periodically throughout the teaching day).

g) Teachers disinfect their own teaching area/surfaces regularly including pencils, music stands, chairs and any touched pianos, etc.

g#) Don’t come to the studio if you are sick.  It’s easy as ever to offer an online lesson or reschedule.

We take your health and safety seriously.

Our policies and processes will evolve with any and all changes in the health and business environments.

Thank you.
St. Joseph Arts Academy
SJAA Updates

Songwriting Festival – June 1 is our “deadline” for songwriting submissions.  There is a little flexibility if composers are having any trouble getting videos made.  Ideally, we’ll get the videos to the judges by June 8 and have feedback to students by June 15.  Besides written comments from our judges about their music, “Grand Prize” writers can win gift certificates and other awards!

Again, they can submit videos themselves or just send them to jason@stjosephartsacademy.com and we’ll happily take care of them.  All the details are here…

https://stjosephartsacademy.com/songwriting-festival/

Thanks in advance to our international panel of songwriting/composition impresarios in Anthony Glise (Sainghin-en-Mélantois, France), Ed Daniels (Las Vegas), Simon Fink (Houston), Lucy Gray Hamilton (Peer Judge, St. Joseph) and our very own Dr. Frank Nawrot (Lansing, KS)!

Summer Practice Challenge! – All of our summer festival/concerts have been rescheduled or cancelled.  This leaves a big hole in our summer activities and performance opportunities.

So… Let’s give some attention to working hard this summer, practicing extra and earning some recognition and prizes.  June/July practice totals can be logged by paper (we have practice logs available or create your own) or in TZ’s practice timer feature.

Students and their teachers will set some goals based on their age/level.  Simply practice TONS,  complete and return logs by Aug 1 to compete (TZ is auto-reporting).  Grand prizes will go to those with best times, improvements over the summer for early and later elementary, middle school, high school and adult.  Considerations by each studio and/or instrument.

Let’s focus on effective PRACTICE routines this summer, set some playing goals and have lots of fun.

SJAA Early Childhood – Our new Early Childhood program went on immediate restriction with the Covid-19 Quarantine but that did not stop our amazing program leaders (Miss Sarah and Mrs. Emily) from providing tons of extra content and love from a distance.

We are meeting soon to discuss options for moving forward.  Early Childhood Music is simply the best possible gift/experience and most important window of opportunity to positively affect the human brain for a lifetime.  The SJAA team remains deeply committed to early childhood music experiences for our whole community.

New classes/clinics – Online and hopefully, on-location courses are coming soon for summer including our annual July “Maestro Series”, TBA.

Previously scheduled Maestro, Anthony Glise is sequestered in France the rest of the year, maybe.

Taking suggestions for the classes you’d like offered by the SJAA.  Registrations and info TBA.

AND… We’ll have (another) annual summer coloring contest in July!
Celebrations!

Spring Music Contests – Our first online evaluative adjudication was May 1st.  We had a full 30 students in guitar, piano and violin who submitted videos of their recital pieces and level-appropriate scales/chords.  They received some extremely positive feedback and constructive critique from an impartial judge on their instrument along with a Certificate of Completion.  Wish we could have sent them on to “State”.  Instead, adjudicator selections were presented at…

“Music Moves Us Together” Online Recital – This was an incredible success.  It took a lot of work on our end and we know how the students (and videographers) worked very hard to participate.  Thanks to all who encouraged their students in it, to our judges for amazing feedback for them and to all who watched the recital to give some shout-outs in real time.
Check it out here if you missed it!
https://www.facebook.com/stjosephartsacademy/videos/580972879209529/
We’ll do something similar in the fall!

Did you see us in the News? – The SJAA was featured in a recent Sunday edition of the St. Joseph News Press for our transition to online music learning.  And Sydney got the photo opp!
https://www.newspressnow.com/life/st_joe_live/st-joseph-musicians-goes-online-to-teach-music/article_3ce303a2-8faa-11ea-b264-e71312c72014.html

We held our first ever SJAA “State of the Academy” & Teacher Continuing Ed.  Zoom meeting edition this month.  We set a record for getting almost everyone together.   Looked like “Hollywood Squares” but with a focus our amazing team.  But mostly, we talked about your amazing students.

Got something to celebrate?  Please keep us up-to-date on the accomplishments, special events and activities in our students lives so we can celebrate them!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our May “Student of the Month” is…

Hadley C.!!!

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

Besides traveling from Maryville for a weekly, 1-hour violin session with Mr. Brock, Hadley is also involved in cheerleading.

She enjoys crocheting, baking, reading, spending time with her siblings, and taking care of her goats and chickens.  Also a young entrepreneur, she sells fresh eggs and participated in a children’s business fair selling bath bombs made with goats milk.

Hadley recently participated in our “Spring Music Contests” and was a selected performer for the “Music Moves Us Together” online recital.

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

Thank you, Hadley 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.
Repurpose that Piano?

While we insist that you play them, if they can’t be repaired, why not turn it into a cool computer desk.  Check out what Cash and his Dad made!  Turns all the colors and we presume a very fun place to work on your stuff.

Looking for an investment?

The most expensive instrument in the world is the “Lady Blunt” Stradivarius violin, which sold in 2011 for US$15.9 million.

Usual Suspects

Why Can’t We All Just Get Along?!
SJAAUpcoming Events

5/16 – SJAA “Music Moves US Together” Online Recital, 7pm

5/21 – Recital at Living Community, 7pm (Rescheduled, TBA)

6/1 – SJAA Songwriting Competition deadline

June/July –  SJAA “Practice Challenge” deadline Aug 1.

7/15 – Silver and Gold Banquet, Word of Life Church, 1245pm (Rescheduled, TBA)

9/19 – Hawkfest, 130pm

10/11 – Photo Day @ SJAA, times/venue TBA

10/23-25 – Robidoux Resident Theater presents “School of Rock”

12-19 – Beethoven’s 250 Birthday

 
Books!FREE shipping on in-stock books to SJAA students who need to “Level Up” in their reading materials during quarantine.
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 -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
We made some memories this month, didn’t we?

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.  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 630
Andrew – Tuesdays 2:45 & 4
Emily – Mondays 430,  Saturday 1030
Monica – Mondays 430, Wednesday 6
Brent – Tuesday 530, 6, Thursday 3, 5 
Jason – Monday 4pm
Mary Jo – Wednesday 430 & 530
Will –  mondays 4 & 430
Sarah – Saturdays

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Uke, Drums, Early Childhood, Group Guitar

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://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 © 2020 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 Joseph, MO 64506-1938

SJAA Covid-19 Protection Plan

Posted on by jason riley

Our SJAA Covid-19 Protection Plan

 

Since mid-March, the SJAA has been open for ONLINE LESSONS only.  Our commercial building has been receiving continued improvements but with little to no public traffic.

In-Person Lessons resumed slowly and selectively for some students and teachers on June 1.

Lessons – We have begun to slowly re-open for 1-on-1 lessons by appointment only.  We anticipate that we’ll move forward with a mix of online and in-person private lessons per the wishes of the individual instructors and individual families.  We are asking that all limit their attendance to just the student and one parent/guardian if needed.  No large family or friend groups at this time.

Social-Distancing – In most cases, our spacious studios make it possible for students and teachers to easily remain 6 feet apart.  We will have clearly marked Covid-19 Safety Plans in place outlining any restrictions, protocols or best safety/health practices (ex. limited to student and 1 parent).

The SJAA expanded throughout our entire building giving us over 2000 square feet to spread out in, a total of 8 studios, a large classroom, 2 new waiting areas and  2 new sinks for hand washing.

Cleaning Schedule – So proud of the way our staff and members always keep our spaces clean and tidy.  Our families should notice, more than ever, that our academy is always clean.  Our cleaning schedule has been adjusted to each lesson (cleaning teaching surfaces and pianos), hourly activities (inspections, door handle cleaning and bathrooms), daily/nightly cleaning activities with checklists for quality control.

Students and teachers would be expected to wash hands well or use hand-sanitizer before and after lessons.  All are welcome to continue use face-masks for as long as they feel necessary.  And, if you are sick… Stay Home.  We will continue to monitor the health of our faculty and students regularly.

We take your health and safety seriously.

Our policies and processes will evolve with any and all changes in the health and business environments.

Thank you.
St. Joseph Arts Academy

 

 

Sanitation Plan:

Cleaning Schedule – So proud of the way our staff and members always keep our spaces clean and tidy.  Our families should notice, more than ever, that our academy is always clean.  Our cleaning schedule has been adjusted to each lesson (cleaning teaching surfaces and pianos), hourly activities (inspections, door handle cleaning and bathrooms), daily/nightly cleaning activities with checklists for quality control.

Students and teachers would be expected to wash hands well or use hand-sanitizer before and after lessons.  All are welcome to continue use face-masks for as long as they feel necessary.  And, if you are sick… Stay Home.  We will continue to monitor the health of our faculty and students regularly.

Hand sanitizer, Disposable Masks, Door Wraps, Gloves, Wipes, 6 ft., contactless registrations, letters, phone messaging for teachers, checklist in each studio and in front window.

 

Thank you for the opportunity to show you all we are doing for the health and safety of our students, teachers, families and SJAA members.

⋅ Constant contact with City of St. Joseph and State of Missouri about limitations, relief and best practices.
⋅ Quickly moving all classes and lessons to an online format.
⋅ Watch for videos about how we are complying with state and local recommendations.
⋅ “Return from Quarantine” Survey
⋅ Resurgence and Contingency plans in place for vigilance in reducing exposure and quick communication.
⋅ Walking the line between clients wanting to get out versus what it takes to be safe when we are out together.

 

 

The Write Notes – April 2020

Posted on by jason riley
Dear Students and Families,

With several more weeks of quarantine behind us (and potentially still ahead of us), we remain grateful to everyone doing their part to knock this thing down.  From everyone on the front lines to all of our friends and families who are choosing to “stay home” for the benefit of all.

Our SJAA studios have been very quiet but I know our houses have not.  The music has given us all, teachers and students, an opportunity to share, to keep growing and some needed emotional and spiritual comfort.  It’s wonderful to have something positive to focus on.

In many cases, it’s been necessary for others to follow the “downward spiral” to cancelling everything, to wait and see or just put things on hold.  Together with your family, we’ve all chosen to realize an attitude of possibility.  The demands of our students’ radiant potential are simply so strong they can’t be overlooked or set aside.

Thank you for your commitment to the advancing musicians in your family and to all in our academy family.  It’s been amazing to see everyone stepping up and working even harder towards our opportunities to show their work and share their music.

We are strengthening our bonds through music, even at a distance.

Thank you for your continuing support of the arts in our community and of our entire SJAA family.

Looking forward to the days when we’ll all be back together under one roof.  We’ll play some music, TOGETHER.

Thank you!

jason and SJAA

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to message me directly at…
816 294 4856 (cell)
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
Our SJAA Covid-19 Protection Plan

Since mid-March, the SJAA has been open for ONLINE LESSONS only.  Our commercial building has been receiving continued improvements but with little to no public traffic.

Preparations are underway for when we do re-open our spaces.

Social-Distancing – In most cases, our spacious studios make it possible for students and teachers to easily remain 6 feet apart.  We will have clearly marked Covid-19 Safety Plans in place outlining any restrictions, protocols or best safety/health practices (ex. limited to student and 1 parent).

The SJAA expanded throughout our entire building giving us over 2000 square feet to spread out in, a total of 8 studios, a large classroom, 2 new waiting areas and  2 new sinks for hand washing.

Cleaning Schedule – So proud of the way our staff and members always keep our spaces clean and tidy.  Our families should notice, more than ever, that our academy is always clean.  Our cleaning schedule has been adjusted to each lesson (cleaning teaching surfaces and pianos), hourly activities (inspections, door handle cleaning and bathrooms), daily/nightly cleaning activities with checklists for quality control.

Students and teachers would be expected to wash hands well or use hand-sanitizer before and after lessons.  All are welcome to continue use face-masks for as long as they feel necessary.  And, if you are sick… Stay Home.

We take your health and safety seriously.

Our policies and processes will evolve with any and all changes in the health and business environments.

Thank you.
St. Joseph Arts Academy
SJAA Updates –
Shelter in Place – While we are all eager to get back to our routines, “out of the house” and see each other in person again, the SJAA will remain ONLINE only through the month of May.  If it works out that we can safely open doors and return earlier we will for all who are comfortable doing so.  The safety of our students and teachers is our first priority.

Spring Music Contests –  It’s not to late to jump in!  This weekend is the deadline for video submissions.  Like a college jury, students would submit 2 videos of 2 pieces in differing styles and 1 video of the scales (maybe chords cadences too) required by the key of the pieces.  No sight-reading or paper test. Participating students will receive an evaluative critique of their performance, certificate of completion and judges will select a best performance from each for an online broadcast of an online recital.  May 16 recital “Music Moves Us” broadcast date.

SJAA Songwriting Festival– Calling all composers and songwriters!  Submit your original music (vocal and/or instrumental pieces) for feedback from an international cast of judges and you could win fabulous cash and prizes.  Get creative, hone your craft and let’s celebrate YOUR music!  Video submission are due by June 1.  (Music can be sung or performed by the composer or by another player if necessary.)  More details TBA.

Free “Intro to Ukulele” Lesson – Want to try the Uke or get great “quick start” or review?  We sent out lots of these 1 hour video lesson/materials links last week.  If you are interested just drop Jason an email and we’ll share it with you for FREE!
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com

New classes/clinics – Online and hopefully, on-location courses are coming soon for summer.  Taking suggestions for the classes you’d like offered by the SJAA.  Registrations and info TBA.

“Hawkfest” – The June Jazz and Blues festival has been rescheduled to Saturday, Sept. 19.  SJAA students will open the day.

Online Resources – Big Thanks to TeacherZone, Zoom, FaceTime and google duo for the possibility to do our lessons online with relative ease.  We are also recommending the FREE trial at Sightreadingfactory.com (for sight-reading on any instrument!) and Musictheory.net (you guessed it!)
Celebrations!

Coloring Contest!

We moved our 2nd annual Coloring Contest from Summer to Spring
(Hey, why not?)
We loved seeing all the original, careful and fun versions of this years page.  Selected artists received gift cards and a little recognition for their work.
Congratulations to Sydney L. for her work in being selected
for the $25 Visa Gift Card!


Free Face-Masks

Thanks to the generosity, care, time and talents of Sharon Barlow (Academy Mom!), we were able to donate dozens of Face Masks to our fashion-forward SJAA community.  Certainly, some of the coolest you’ll see and music themes.  Thanks Mom!

Got something to celebrate?  Please keep us up-to-date on the accomplishments, special events and activities in our students lives so we can celebrate them!
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our April “Student of the Month” is…

Basil Riches!!!


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

Music Honors! – Guitarist, Basil Riches of Atchison, KS received a “1” rating for his rendition of “O Son De Ar” at the 4-H Atchison County, KS Club Day contest.  Way to go, Basil!
We’ll celebrate Basil with an iTunes gift card for him!

Thank you, Basil 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.
Best Quarantine Home Schooling Solutions

Outsource the teaching

Working from home?

A fun game for all!  Empty those sock drawers.
SJAA’s Upcoming Recitals

2020

4/25 – SJAMTA Evaluatives (CANCELLED)
4/26 –  2pm SJAMTA student recital (CANCELLED)
3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian (CANCELLED)
5/1 – SJAA Evaluative Audition Submission Deadline
5/16 – SJAA “Music Moves Us” Online Recital, TBA
5/XX – SJAA Ribbon Cutting, Open House (TBD)
5/21 – Recital at Living Community, 7pm (TBD) (Rescheduling)
7/15 – Silver and Gold Banquet, Word of Life Church, 1245pm
9/19 – Hawkfest, 130pm
10/11 – Photo Day @ SJAA, times/venue TBA

SJAA Specific Events in BOLD
Books!FREE shipping on in-stock books to SJAA students who need to “Level Up” in their reading materials during quarantine.
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 -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
We made some memories this month, didn’t we?

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.  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 630
Andrew – Tuesdays 2:45 & 4
Emily – Mondays 430,  Saturday 1030
Monica – Mondays 430, Wednesday 6
Brent – Tuesday 530, 6, Thursday 3, 5 
Jason – Monday 4pm
Mary Jo – Tuesday, 430 & 530
Will –  mondays 4 & 430
Sarah – Saturdays

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Uke, Drums, Early Childhood, Group Guitar

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://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 © 2020 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.

The Write Notes – March 2020

Posted on by jason riley
Dear &lt;&lt;First Name>>,

Let me start with a lot of gratitude.  We are having some seriously challenging times at home and globally.  There is just a ton of concern and unanswered questions about how and how long it will take to get back to our routines.  I’m grateful to our city leaders and to our friends and neighbors for taking the unsettling but necessary precautions to make this better for everyone.

In less than a week, educational institutions made a huge shift to online learning.  I am truly amazed that these massive changes happened so quickly and with such low friction.  Is it perfect?  No.  But it’s a great example of our ability to pull together and simply get things done when the time is NOW.

SJAA students, teachers and families are no exception.  Over 98% of our students made the switch immediately and adapted very quickly to a new way of lesson delivery.  Change is never easy and we still have some challenges to face.  That’s how we learn and grow.

Extremely proud of the way everyone is stepping up to demonstrate that willingness, that commitment to continued learning and growth.

Practicing, learning and playing music are more essential now than ever.

Grateful we have each other and can share this journey together.  It will be transformative, a reminder of what’s most important and an opportunity to demonstrate the best in ourselves.

Stay happy and healthy.  We’ll see you (virtually) in the weeks ahead and looking forward to having everyone together back at the Academy soonest.

Thank you, &lt;&lt;First Name>>!

jason and SJAA

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to message me directly at…
816 294 4856 (cell)
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
Join or Share us on Facebook/Instagram
SJAA Updates –
Shelter in Place – Remains in effect for our city through this week.  All lessons and classes will be online only for at least a few more weeks.  St Joseph Public Schools are out until April 24 so it may be that the SJAA will follow suit.  No official decision but maybe presume that will be the case though April and we’ll roll with the punches and changes as they come in.

Evaluative Adjudication – Sadly, our students have lost every opportunity to demonstrate their best work.  Local and state music contests, recitals, spring concerts and most recently the SJAMTA evaluative audition, ALL CANCELLED.
The SJAA can fill this gap with an SJAA evaluative audition online.  Like a college jury, students would submit 2 videos of 2 pieces in differing styles and 1 video of the scales (maybe chords cadences too) required by the key of the pieces.  No sight-reading or paper test.

Participating students will receive an evaluative critique of their performance, certificate of completion and judges will select a best performance from each for an online broadcast of an online recital.  May 1 deadline for submissions and a May 16 recital “Music Moves Us” broadcast date.

SJAMTA evaluative usually costs $15 to members.  SJAA evaluative will be FREE to members.  Not Mandatory but maybe the only opportunity students will have to demonstrate their continued hard work this spring.

Application Form or send a note to jason@stjosephartsacademy.com to sign up.

Songwriting Contest – Working on this with more details to come.  Similar to above but original songs or instrumental compositions submitted by video.  TBA

New classes/clinics – Coming soon for summer.  Registrations and info TBA.
Welcome to our Newest Students!

Braeden, Mary, Jackson, Larkin, Maeby, Brooke, Taylor, Cory, Myles, Sabre, Charlie, Elizabeth and Coen!
Celebrations!

Music Honors! – Guitarist, Basil Riches of Atchison, KS received a “1” rating for his rendition of “O Son De Ar” at the 4-H Atchison County, KS Club Day contest.  Way to go, Basil!

Drums! – Our new Drum studio opened this month with Will Doyle (master percussion/recording).  Limited spaces available for drum lessons.

New Teachers– Welcome to our newest team member, Mary Jo Lewis (master piano)!

40th Anniversary Monster Concert – The SJAA piano and guitar students joined SJAMTA for the 40th Annual Monster concert last month.  The sold-out show provides money for scholarships to middle, high school and college students for summer music camps, festivals and continuing course work.

Group Classes – With the expansion in our building we got some great new classroom spaces.  We started with some beginner’s guitar classes (child or adult) and early childhood (age appropriate classes from 8ms to 5 yrs) this month.  If you have friends or family that might be looking for musical experienceslike this, we greatly appreciate you sharing us with them.  Many more fun classes in the works!  Let us know if there is a class you’d like to see offered here.

info@stjosephartsacademy.com for more information.

Limited spaces available.

More to come!

SJAA Expansion Finally Complete! – We’ll look forward to having you here soon!!  Total of 5 new studios, additional pianos, 1 Large classrooms space, 2 waiting areas, reception area and kitchenette, bathroom, fresh paint, new flooring, LED lighting and additional hallways (AND we hung a piano on the wall!).

First Recital in our New Space – So honored to have Mr. Brock’s violin studio present our first ever student recital IN OUR VERY OWN BUILDING!  It has been a major work in progress to get our doors open and just really fun to have everyone there.  Thanks to Mrs. Foster, Mrs. Riley and Isaac Johnson for accompanying and congratulations to the performers and to Mr. Brock on their dedicated work.
#MusicAccomplished

Student of the Month

Our March “Student of the Month” is…

Myles Grimsinger!!!

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

Besides being SJAA’s premier drum student with Will, Myles is part of his middle school band as a percussionist.  The guy loves baseball and we are all hoping the season with his team “Smash” can hit the field together soon.    Myles is also part of a Dungeons and Dragon club with friends after school.

He just recently upgraded to a new drum kit and is excelling with it.

We’ll celebrate Myles with an iTunes gift card for him!

Thank you, Myles 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.
The New “Social Distancing Elbow Bump” Emoji!!
SJAA’s Upcoming Recitals 

2020

2/8 –  Monster Concert  (piano rehearsals Jan 31, Feb 7)
2/29 – Teacher Appreciation Day
3/8 – 2pm SJAMTA student recital (CANCELLED)
4/18 – Academy @ the Mansion, 2020.  (TBD)
4/25 – SJAMTA Evaluatives (CANCELLED)
4/26 –  2pm SJAMTA student recital (CANCELLED)
3:30 SJAMTA Honors Recital at First Presbyterian (CANCELLED)
5/1 – SJAA Evaluative Audition Submission Deadline
5/16 – SJAA “Music Moves Us” Online Recital, TBA
5/XX – SJAA Ribbon Cutting, Open House (TBD)
5/21 – Recital at Living Community, 7pm (TBD)
6/13 – Hawkfest, 130pm
7/15 – Silver and Gold Banquet, Word of Life Church, 1245pm
10/11 – Photo Day @ SJAA, times/venue TBA

SJAA Specific Events in BOLD
Books!Is your student ready for new books? We carry a very limited supply of instructor approved titles. Talk with your teacher about your next books and we’ll get them ordered.
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 -“The Write Notes” –  
Monthly Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!
We made some memories this month, didn’t we?

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.  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 630
Andrew – Tuesdays 2:45 & 4
Emily – Mondays 430,  Saturday 1030
Monica – Mondays 430, Wednesday 6
Brent – Tuesday 530, 6, Thursday 3, 5 
Jason – Monday 4pm
Mary Jo – Tuesday, 430 & 530
Will –  mondays 4 & 430
Sarah – Saturdays

 SJAA Classes/Courses – Guitar, Piano, Violin, Cello, Voice, Uke, Drums, Early Childhood, Group Guitar

TeacherZone is our on-line platform for our students and our teachers.
https://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 © 2020 St. Joseph Arts Academy, All rights reserved.

30 Day Guitar Challenge

Posted on by jason riley

ARE YOU UP TO THE CHALLENGE?

Get ready for Maximum Musical Growth in improving your guitar skills through this 30 Day, intensive and motivational challenge from the St. Joseph Arts Academy and Director/Guitarist, Jason Riley.

The Challenge begins on January 2, 2020.

 

“Buy Now” to complete registration.

 




http://www.jasonriley.com
https://stjosephartsacademy.com
http://www.socajukebox.com

30 Day Guitar Challenge