Why Early Childhood Music Matters — And How to Get Started at SJAA This Fall

Posted on July 8, 2025 by jason riley

🎵 Why Early Childhood Music Matters — And How to Get Started at SJAA This Fall

At the St. Joseph Arts Academy, we believe that music is one of the greatest gifts we can offer our children—especially in their earliest years. That’s why our Early Childhood Music Program is designed to support families and their littlest learners with joyful, developmentally appropriate classes that build brains, strengthen bonds, and spark a lifelong love of music.

Whether your child is just learning to walk or getting ready for kindergarten, there’s a class for every stage of early growth and musical discovery.

🎶 Why Music in the Early Years?

The first five years of life are critical for brain development, and music activates more areas of the brain than almost any other activity. Singing, moving, clapping, dancing, and playing simple instruments help young children develop:

Language and listening skills
Motor coordination and balance
Memory and cognitive development
Emotional expression and confidence
Social interaction and routine

Music is more than just fun—it’s a whole-brain workout that gives kids a strong foundation for future learning, creativity, and success in school and life.

🎹 Meet Our New Director of Early Childhood Music

We are thrilled to welcome Mrs. Jolie Riley as our new Director of Early Childhood Music at SJAA!

Mrs. Riley is a passionate, experienced music educator with over 30 years of teaching in both public and Catholic schools. A dedicated mother of two and lovingly known by her littlest students as “Smiley Riley,” she brings warmth, joy, and a deep understanding of early childhood learning to every class. Her nurturing style and enthusiasm for music make her classes a true highlight of the week for children and parents alike.

🍂 Fall 2025 Early Childhood Music Schedule

Our next session of early childhood music classes begins the week of September 6 (Saturdays) and September 8 (Mondays). Space is limited, so we encourage early registration to secure your preferred time.

Class Offerings:

👶 Baby Bebop: Music Beginnings (Ages 12–24 months)

Saturdays at 9:00am or 1:00pm
Mondays at 9:00am or 4:00pm

👧 Tune Tykes: Music Discovery (Ages 2–3 years)

Saturdays at 10:00am or 2:00pm
Mondays at 10:00am or 5:00pm

🧒 Melody Makers: Music Explorers (Ages 4–5 years)

Saturdays at 11:00am or 3:00pm
Mondays at 11:00am or 6:00pm

These classes are intentionally small and personalized, allowing every child and parent to fully engage and enjoy the experience. Families tell us it’s the best part of their week!

🎵 Join the Musical Journey

If you’re looking for something fun, educational, and truly enriching for your young child, we invite you to join the SJAA Early Childhood Music Program. Give your child the gift of music—and give yourself the joy of watching them thrive.

Ready to get started?
Call, text, or email us today to learn more and reserve your spot!

Pick-Up Notes – May Newsletter from St. Joseph Arts Academy

Posted on May 20, 2025May 20, 2025 by jason riley

Pick-Up Notes
The Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy

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Dear SJAA Families,

We have so much to celebrate this month at the Academy!

Thanks to your support, our Spring Clean-Up and Parking Lot Sale was a huge success. The Academy is looking fresh with new paint inside and out, and it’s never looked better! We’re proud to provide a clean, welcoming space for our students, families, and faculty—your support truly helps us keep our creative home in top shape.

Another big milestone this month was the very first “St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day!” It was a fantastic event full of fun, friends, music, and community spirit. Families toured the Academy, met our awesome staff, and even joined in some music-making of their own. A big thank you to everyone who came out to share the SJAA with a friend or just to BE A FRIEND!

As we head into the summer months, we want to remind you that the SJAA is a year-round school. While vacations and summer fun are important, we also know this can be a perfect season for students to make real progress on their musical journey. Many students have more time to practice, try a new instrument, explore new styles, or dive deeper into their current studies. Summer can be a time of incredible growth—and we’re here to help make that happen.

We don’t slow down in the summer—in fact, we grow! Our students are preparing to perform at amazing community events like the Museum Art Fair and Hawkfest, and there’s even more music-making happening every week.

Plus, we know schedules can get hectic in the summer. That’s why we offer flexible options to help your family stay on track:
5th week bonus lessons
Alternate scheduling
Virtual lessons when you travel
Popular video lessons for busy weeks
Group make-ups, guest instructors & specialty clinics

Can’t make it one week? You can even send a friend or family member in your place—or donate your lesson time to a student in need through our partnerships with the YWCA and Noyes Home.

If your student loves their teacher or has a prime lesson time (like 4pm on Monday), it’s especially important to keep that spot. Lesson times are in high demand, and we want to make sure your child continues with the teacher and schedule that works best for them.

We’re here to work with you, to accommodate your plans, and to add value to your musical experience all year long. Summer is no reason to hit pause—it’s a time to thrive.

Let’s make it a summer of music, growth, and fun!

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

#MusicAccomplished

Our May “Student of the Month” is…

John C.!

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

John loves hanging out with his grandkids, picking up the guitar to play along when the family sings, getting creative with woodworking, writing, singing, and just soaking up the good life.

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

Thank you, John 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.

Our May Pet of the Month goes to

Buttercup!

Thank you to the Wiedmaier family for sharing a photo of your sweet fur baby. Each month, SJAA will select a pet to feature and a donation will be made to Friends of the St. Joseph Animal Shelter in honor of all of our local pets in need. 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!

Our very own Terry Brock has been awarded the Great Griffin Award!! We are so proud to call him part of our team!!

Our very own Anthony Glise was celebrated at Belmont University in Nashville!

SJAA was awarded at International Music Academy Conference in Nashville last month! SJAA director, Jason Riley, students and faculty were recognized among top music schools in the US and Canada for highest enrollment, online reputation, overall excellence and as one of the largest private music schools in the midwest region!

St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out to our ST. Joseph Kids Make Muci day!! We were so happy to meet so many new families!!

Thank you to those who came out to our Mother’s Day Craft event!!

Mrs. Olivia’s Spring Studio Recital

Miss Addy’s Spring Studio Recital

Host Your Next Event in Style!

Looking for the perfect space for your next celebration, or pop-up? Come check out our party room. With customizable layouts, top-notch amenities, and a dedicated team to support you, your event is in great hands.
✨ Book now — dates are filling fast!

📞 Contact us today to schedule a tour or reserve your date.

This week, we’re celebrating the heart and soul of our academy, our incredible music teachers!

From first notes to final performances, our instructors inspire, challenge, and support every student’s journey. Their passion for music and dedication to teaching make dreams possible and melodies unforgettable.

Google Review

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!

We’ve now reached over 50 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 75 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 50 5-star Google reviews.

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

Referral Contest!
Share this referral as a GIFT FROM YOU and they’ll get FREE registration ($35.00) and their Fourth Lesson FREE ($29.00) when they register for lessons. ($64.00 Value!)

AND… you’ll both be registered for the quarterly referral contest for a chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card or a Private Party for 15 friends!

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!

“Battle of the Books!”

30% OFF In-Stock Music Books in May!

Level Up this Month, We’ll celebrate you with a Book Completion Certificate & You Get 30% Off your next book level.

I absolutely adore going to the St. Joseph Arts Academy. I take lessons with Brent Isom, who, in my opinion, couldn’t be better at helping me learn the guitar. While I have my own limitations, Brent’s enthusiastic approach to teaching has deepened both my love for music and my abilities. Honestly, every lesson brightens my week. If you’re thinking about trying music lessons, do yourself a favor and go for it—you won’t regret it. Cheers! – Elsa W.

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $116.

Review Our Lesson Policy
https://stjosephartsacademy.com/lesson-policy/

OTHER NOTES

Upcoming Events

5/2-3 – State Music Contests

5/3 – “Mystery Floral Mother’s Day Craft Event!” SJAA Recital Room, 10-1130am

5/4 – SJAA “St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day!” 1-3pm SJAA TBA

5/10 – InspireU – SJAA Second Saturdays Music Makers, 1-4pm

5/10 – Olivia’s Spring Studio Recitals, SJAA Recital Room, 2pm & 3pm

5/17 – Case Graduation, PRIVATE SJAA Recital Room, TBA

5/24 – Holly L’s BDay Party PRIVATE 2 – 5

6/1 – June “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!

6/2 – Early Childhood Music Classes Begin!

“Music & Me” (Infants 12-23 months) 10am or 4pm

“Music Play” (Toddlers ages 2 and 3) 11am or 5pm

“Super Music” (Pre-K ages 4 and 5) 12pm or 6pm

6/7 – AKMA Art Fair, Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art, 11am

6/10 – SJAMTA Board meeting, SJAA 10am

6/12 – “Artist in Schools” w/Director, Jason Riley, Coleman Elementary 12pm

6/14 – “Hawkfest” Jazz & Blues Festival, Coleman Hawkins Park, 130pm

6/14 – InspireU – SJAA Second Saturdays Music Makers, 1-4pm

6/22 – Connell Graduation Party PRIVATE, 1-5pm

Is your Teacher Sold Out?

Addy Gabriel – 430 Monday

Alex Rowen – 530 Thursday

Andrew Holmes – 1230 Tuesday

Anthony Glise – 2 Monday

Brett Wootton – 6 Friday

Brent Isom – 330 Thursday

Chris Bates – 530 Thursday

Claire Gerhardt – 530 Monday

Jack Wing – 4 Wednesday

Jason Riley – Waiting List

Jolie Riley – Waiting List

Darren Verbick – 530 Tuesday

David Jarman – 530 Monday

David Parker – Virtual

Marina Gurnovich – 630 Tuesday

Olivia Guardado – Waiting List

Terry Brock – Waiting List

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

UNITED FIBER has come to the SJAA!
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!

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.

It’s fun! Thank you for that.

Jason Riley
Director
jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
Call: 816-974-7656
Text: 816-623-2002
Here to help! Call or text if you need anything at all.

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Make Music Memories This Summer: Early Childhood Music Classes at St. Joseph Arts Academy

Posted on May 14, 2025May 14, 2025 by jason riley

🎶 Make Music Memories This Summer: Early Childhood Music Classes at St. Joseph Arts Academy

Looking for fun and meaningful ways to bond with your child this summer? Whether you’re a new parent, a seasoned caregiver, or a grandparent looking to create special memories, early childhood music classes might be the perfect summer activity.

At St. Joseph Arts Academy, we’re thrilled to offer our community a joyful lineup of “Caregiver & Me” style music classes designed especially for children from 12 months to 5 years old. These sessions aren’t just adorable—they’re grounded in research, deeply enriching, and incredibly fun for both kids and adults.

🎵 Why Choose Early Childhood Music Classes?

Music education in early childhood isn’t just about singing songs (though we do plenty of that!). It’s about:

🎶 Enhancing brain development
🧠 Building early language and listening skills
❤️ Deepening caregiver-child bonds
🤸 Encouraging movement and coordination
😄 Fostering social confidence and creativity

In short, music is one of the most powerful and playful tools we have to support growing minds and hearts. And best of all, it’s something you and your child can experience together.

🎹 Class Options for Summer 2025

We’ve designed age-specific programs to meet your child right where they are developmentally—while giving you quality time together you’ll treasure forever:

1. Music & Me! (Infants: 12–23 months)
Gentle songs, movement, and sensory exploration to connect and delight.

2. Music Play (Toddlers: 2–3 years)
Interactive music-making with rhythm instruments, movement games, and plenty of giggles.

3. Super Music (Pre-K: 4–5 years)
Preparing for more structured learning with musical storytelling, creative play, and pre-instrument activities.

📆 Summer 2025 Schedule

Dates: June 2 – July 9 (6-week session)
Morning or Evening Classes Available:

Monday Mornings: 9am (Infants), 10am (Toddlers), 11am (Pre-K)
Wednesday Mornings: Same schedule
Monday Evenings: 5pm (Infants), 6pm (Toddlers), 7pm (Pre-K)

Tuition: Only $99 for the full 6-week session!

👪 Who Are These Classes For?

These classes are ideal for:

Parents or caregivers looking for bonding activities
Families seeking enrichment for young children
Grandparents wanting to spend quality time with their grandkids
Anyone searching for screen-free, developmental summer fun

✅ How to Register

Spots are limited and tend to fill up quickly. Reserve your space now with just a few quick details:

Your child’s name and age
Your contact name
Best phone and email

📞 Call: 816-974-7656
📲 Text: 816-623-2002
📧 Email: jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
🌐 Request Info Online: www.stjosephartsacademy.com/request-info

❤️ Let’s Make Music Memories Together

At St. Joseph Arts Academy, we believe in the lifelong power of music to connect families, support growing minds, and spark joy. These early childhood years are precious—and we’re honored to help you make the most of them.

Don’t miss this chance to give your child a beautiful head start through music this summer. 🎶💛

St. Joseph Arts Academy Presents: Practice Makes Progress

Posted on May 8, 2025May 9, 2025 by jason riley

The Practice of Practice

Encouragement & Tips for Students, Parents & Musical Families

🎵 The Practice of Practice
A practical guide to stress-free, joyful music making at home
✔ For students who want to play better
✔ For parents who want to encourage without conflict
✔ For families who value music and want it to stick

St. Joseph Arts Academy
🎶 Private Lessons in Guitar • Piano • Voice • Violin • Drums • Ukulele • Cello
📍 2027 N. 36th Street, St. Joseph, MO 64506
📞 (816) 294-4856 | ✉ jason@stjosephartsacademy.com
🌐 www.stjosephartsacademy.com

How Much Should I Practice?

There’s no single right answer. It depends on your goals, your schedule, and your stage of life.

But here’s a truth from world-renowned educator Shinichi Suzuki:
“Only practice on the days you eat.”
In other words, consistency matters more than quantity.

⏱ Even 10 minutes a day makes a difference.
You don’t need hours. But you do need to show up daily, even if it’s just to hold your instrument, strum a few chords, or sing one song.

“Just play what you can TODAY, the best you can with the time you have NOW.”

Let your instrument be part of your life—like brushing your teeth or walking the dog. Make music a habit, not a chore.

Parent Tips: Gentle Encouragement Works Best

Parents, you’re the “practice partners,” not the enforcers.

✅ Be patient. Learning an instrument is like raising a child. Growth takes time.
✅ Avoid arguments. Instead, ask “What will you play for me today?” or “Can I hear your favorite part?”
✅ Keep it light. Five good minutes of joyful music is better than 30 minutes of stress.
✅ Celebrate small wins. A new note, a clear tone, or a steady rhythm is reason to cheer!

🔁 Ritual helps. Attach music time to another daily habit:

“Before dinner, we practice.”
“Right after brushing teeth, it’s guitar time!”

🎯 Create a simple, predictable routine and stick with it gently.

7 Smart Practice Strategies for Students of All Ages

🎯 Set tiny goals: “Play this phrase 3 times with no mistakes.”
⏳ Use a timer: 10, 15, or 20 minutes of focused work > hours of distracted time.
🎶 Warm up: Scales, easy songs, or improvising gets the brain and fingers ready.
🧠 Focus on one thing: Rhythm, dynamics, posture, or tone—but not all at once.
📒 Use a practice log: Track your time and what you worked on.
💡 Mix it up: Play by ear, read music, memorize, or jam with backing tracks.
🎉 Reward yourself: After practicing, watch a fun video, eat a snack, or do something you love.

Bonus: Realistic Time Goals (Ages 6–Adult)

Age/Level	Daily Practice Goal	Notes
Young Beginners (6–8)	5–10 min	Make it playful and short
Elementary (9–12)	10–20 min	Help create a habit
Teens	20–30 min	Build discipline and joy
Adults	20–60 min	Stay inspired with variety
Aspiring Pros	1–3 hours+	Divide into focused sessions

🎸 Just Keep Going

You don’t need to practice forever. You just need to practice today.

“Be a master today. Enjoy your music today. You don’t have to wait 55 years.”

💙 From all of us at the St. Joseph Arts Academy—thank you for making music part of your family’s life.
Let us know how we can support your goals!

Looking for music lessons near you? The St. Joseph Arts Academy offers private music classes and instrument instruction for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re searching for guitar lessons for kids, piano lessons in St. Joseph, violin lessons, drum lessons, singing lessons, or music theory classes, we’re here to help.

We provide beginner music lessons, advanced music training, and music education for kids through personalized instruction and fun, engaging music programs for children. Our family music lessons and group options make music part of your home and community.

As a trusted St. Joseph music academy and music school in Missouri, we’re proud to offer private music lessons, instrument lessons, music tutoring, and more with expert music teachers in St. Joseph. Discover music classes in St. Joseph, MO and find the perfect fit for your goals.

Why Summer is the Perfect Time for Music Lessons at SJAA

Posted on May 2, 2025May 2, 2025 by jason riley

Why Summer is the Perfect Time for Music Lessons at SJAA

At the St. Joseph Arts Academy, spring has brought exciting changes—and even more reasons to make music with us!

We’ve given the Academy a fresh new look with new paint inside and out, plus a major spring clean-up and successful parking lot sale. Our space is now more organized, welcoming, and inspiring than ever for our students, families, and faculty.

One of the biggest highlights of the season was the launch of our very first “St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day!” This special event welcomed families from across the community to tour the Academy, meet our staff, and enjoy fun music activities. It was an incredible reminder of how music brings people together and how excited local kids are to learn and play!

Year-Round Music Education for Kids and Adults

As we head into the warmer months, we want to remind families that the St. Joseph Arts Academy is a year-round music school. Many parents assume that music lessons pause during summer, but that’s not the case here.

In fact, summer is one of the best times to take music lessons!

With fewer school obligations and more flexible schedules, students often make faster progress. It’s the perfect time to:

Explore a new instrument
Try a different musical style
Spend more time practicing and composing
Double up lessons or focus on a special music project

We also offer exciting performance opportunities throughout the summer, including appearances at the St. Joseph Museum Art Fair and the Hawkfest Jazz & Blues Festival.

Flexible Options for Busy Summer Schedules

We understand that families travel and have shifting schedules in the summer. That’s why we offer flexible lesson options to help students stay consistent:

Virtual lessons (great for vacations!)
Video lessons (super popular and easy to use)
Alternate lesson times & 5th-week makeups
Guest instructors & group makeup classes
Specialty clinics to explore new skills or techniques

You can even send a friend or sibling in your student’s place—or donate the lesson time to a student in need through our partnerships with the YWCA and Noyes Home.

Keep Your Spot—And Your Favorite Teacher!

If your child has a favorite teacher or a high-demand lesson time (like a 4:00pm Monday slot), it’s important to stay enrolled through the summer. Our teachers’ schedules fill quickly, and we want to make sure your family has the best experience possible.

Music Is a Powerful and Positive Summer Activity

With school out, many kids end up spending too much time on screens or sleeping the day away. Music gives them a positive, productive, and creative outlet—a chance to stay sharp, express themselves, and build confidence while still having fun.

We’re here to make summer music lessons easy, flexible, and fun for the whole family.

Ready to keep the music going? Contact us today to customize your summer music plan at the St. Joseph Arts Academy—where kids (and adults!) grow, create, and thrive all year long.

Join Our Growing Team at the St. Joseph Arts Academy! Now Hiring Passionate Music Instructors & Administrative Staff

Posted on April 30, 2025May 1, 2025 by jason riley

🎵 Join Our Growing Team at the St. Joseph Arts Academy! 🎶
Now Hiring Passionate Music Instructors & Administrative Staff

The St. Joseph Arts Academy (SJAA) — the largest private music school in Northwest Missouri — is currently seeking enthusiastic, dependable, and heart-driven individuals to join our exceptional team.

📍 Location: 2027 N. 36th Street, St. Joseph, MO 64506
📞 Phone: (816) 974-7656
🌐 Apply Online: stjosephartsacademy.com/apply

🎼 Now Hiring:

Private & Group Music Instructors for:

Piano
Voice
Guitar
Violin, Viola, Cello, Strings
Drums & Percussion
Band Instruments (Brass & Woodwinds)
Early Childhood Music Education

Whether you’re classically trained or creatively inclined, we’re looking for music educators who are passionate about sharing the gift of music and creating a positive impact on students of all ages.

Administrative Team:

Front Desk Receptionists
Office Assistants
Sales & Enrollment Coordinators
(No music experience required — friendly, organized professionals encouraged to apply!)

🌟 Why Work with Us?

We believe great people deserve a great place to work.

What We Provide for Teachers:

Autonomy & Flexible Schedules
Competitive Hourly Pay
Get Paid for No-Shows & Cancellations
No billing or collections — never chase a payment
Well-equipped, clean studio space with piano/keyboard access
Office support staff for scheduling, booking, and parent communication
Retention & performance tools (Student Awards, Recitals, Recognition)
Marketing & student recruitment done for you
TeacherZone for scheduling, attendance, and payroll
Copier, paper, ink & classroom resources
Book ordering & retail discounts
Parking, clean restrooms, kitchenette, bottled water
Fun perks like Cookie Days, student gifts, and a monthly newsletter

🎯 Our Ideal Team Members:

Love working with people (especially kids and families)
Are dependable, positive, and organized
For instructors: Have teaching experience or a background in performance/education
For admin: Are professional, tech-savvy, and customer-service oriented
Believe in the power of music and the arts to change lives

Ready to Apply?

📲 Click here to submit your application:
👉 stjosephartsacademy.com/apply

We can’t wait to meet you!

Looking for music lessons near you? The St. Joseph Arts Academy offers private music classes and instrument instruction for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re searching for guitar lessons for kids, piano lessons in St. Joseph, violin lessons, drum lessons, singing lessons, or music theory classes, we’re here to help.

We provide beginner music lessons, advanced music training, and music education for kids through personalized instruction and fun, engaging music programs for children. Our family music lessons and group options make music part of your home and community.

As a trusted St. Joseph music academy and music school in Missouri, we’re proud to offer private music lessons, instrument lessons, music tutoring, and more with expert music teachers in St. Joseph. Discover music classes in St. Joseph, MO and find the perfect fit for your goals.

Looking for Music Lessons Near You? Why St. Joseph Families Choose SJAA

Posted on April 29, 2025April 30, 2025 by jason riley

Looking for Music Lessons Near You? Why St. Joseph Families Choose SJAA

Are you searching for music lessons near me? Whether you’re interested in guitar lessons for kids, piano lessons in St. Joseph, or private music classes for the whole family, the St. Joseph Arts Academy is your local, trusted source for high-quality instruction.

At SJAA, we specialize in:

Violin lessons, singing lessons, and drum lessons
Music theory classes and beginner music lessons for all ages
Advanced music training for serious students
Music education for kids and music programs for children
Flexible family music lessons that fit your busy schedule

Our passionate teachers offer personalized instruction in a nurturing, creative environment. As a premier music school in Missouri, we’re proud to serve students of all ages with instrument lessons and music tutoring that inspire confidence and joy.

Whether you’re just getting started or advancing your skills, we’ll help you find the perfect private music lessons in St. Joseph, MO. Discover why so many families trust SJAA for their music education needs.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to meet your new music teacher in St. Joseph!

Pick-Up Notes-April 2025

Posted on April 29, 2025April 29, 2025 by jason riley

Pick-Up Notes
The Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy

View this email in your browser

Dear Students & SJAA Families,Spring is here, and that means we’re gearing up for an amazing summer of music at the St. Joseph Arts Academy! As a year-round music school, we don’t take summers off—in fact, summer is one of our favorite times of the year! It’s a season filled with music, growth, and exciting performance opportunities, and we want you to be a part of it all.We know summer schedules can change with vacations, camps, and activities, but the great news is we’re flexible! Our team makes it easy to work around your summer plans so you can keep your lesson time and your favorite teacher. Students who take a summer break often find it tough to jump back in, and spots with our most in-demand teachers can fill up quickly. Staying enrolled ensures you don’t lose momentum in your progress—and, honestly, summer is a great time to take more lessons, try a new instrument, or even add a family member to the SJAA community. We actually grow in the summer, and we love to see our students making the most of the extra time!

Beyond lessons, we have a full lineup of special events, summer performances and festivals that our students can participate in. Whether it’s playing on stage for the first time or gaining more experience in front of an audience, these events are fun, low-pressure, and an incredible way to grow as a musician.

And speaking of growth, now is the time to register for our summer Early Childhood Music Classes! If you have little ones (or know someone who does), we have engaging classes for ages 1-5 that introduce music in a playful, interactive, and developmentally rich way. Children grow so fast, and early exposure to music is one of the best gifts you can give them! Summer is the perfect time to start, and we’d love to welcome new little learners to our SJAA family.

We’re looking forward to our best summer yet—filled with music, learning, and fun! If you have any questions about summer lessons or early childhood classes, just reach out. We’re here for you and can’t wait to make music together all summer long!

See you at your next lesson!

Jason & SJAA

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

New Students

April “30 Day Practice Challenge” Begins!

SJAA’s Second Saturdays @ Inspire U

Addy’s Spring Studio Recital

“St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day!”

Early Childhood Music Summer Registration

SJAA Spring Parking Lot Sale!!!

… AND MORE!

#MusicAccomplishedOur April “Student of the Month” is…

Grace H..!

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

Grace loves basketball, playing with her cats, blasting music while singing loudly, and baking new desserts. She is the best sister and loves playing with and caring for her siblings. She has a big heart to share the love of Jesus anddoes it boldly wherever she is.

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

Thank you, Grace 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.

Our April Pet of the Month goes to…APACHE!!!
Thank you to the Ashton for sharing a photo of your sweet fur baby. Each month, SJAA will select a pet to feature and a donation will be made to Friends of the St. Joseph Animal Shelter in honor of all of our local pets in need. 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!

It’s that time again!!

30 Day Practice Challenge!Grab a practice sheet from your teacher and write down your practice times. Turn in your sheet at the end of the month and earn a prize!

Top Prize – AMAZON GIFT CARD!!

Join us..April 26th @ 2pm

SJAA South Lobby

“St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day!”
Join us for SJAA’s Open House!May 4th, 1-3pm
Instrument petting zoo, Food, Raffles, Prizes, specials,

Music & More!!

Bring a friend!

New Sessions Beginning in June!Early Childhood Music Classes

“Music & Me!” Infant Music – 1 year

“Music Play” Toddler Music – 2-3 years

“Super Music” Pre-K Music – 4-5 years

$99

for all six weeks

Saturday 4/19, 8am-NoonUsed instruments, sheet music, music books and magazines, furniture, decor and MORE!

Google Review

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!

We’ve now reached over 50 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 75 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 50 5-star Google reviews.

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

Referral Contest!
Share this referral as a GIFT FROM YOU and they’ll get FREE registration ($35.00) and their Fourth Lesson FREE ($29.00) when they register for lessons. ($64.00 Value!)AND… you’ll both be registered for the quarterly referral contest for a chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card or a Private Party for 15 friends!

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!

April Retail SpecialGuitar Footstools $12!

(Normally $21.99. 54% OFF!)

Only 6 Left in Stock!

Such a fun environment that puts your kids musical interest at the top of every decision made. – Marty M.

“The only thing better than singing is more singing”
– Ella Fitzgerald

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $116.Review Our Lesson Policy
https://stjosephartsacademy.com/lesson-policy/

OTHER NOTES

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

UNITED FIBER has come to the SJAA!
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!

Thank you for reading -“Pick-Up Notes” –
Spring Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!

It’s always a great season 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.

It’s fun! Thank you for that.

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

{| o }===:::

St. Joseph Arts Academy

2027 N 36th St

Saint Joseph, MO 64506-2241

Looking for music lessons near you? The St. Joseph Arts Academy offers private music classes and instrument instruction for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re searching for guitar lessons for kids, piano lessons in St. Joseph, violin lessons, drum lessons, singing lessons, or music theory classes, we’re here to help.

We provide beginner music lessons, advanced music training, and music education for kids through personalized instruction and fun, engaging music programs for children. Our family music lessons and group options make music part of your home and community.

As a trusted St. Joseph music academy and music school in Missouri, we’re proud to offer private music lessons, instrument lessons, music tutoring, and more with expert music teachers in St. Joseph. Discover music classes in St. Joseph, MO and find the perfect fit for your goals.

Pick-Up Notes – March Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy

Posted on March 16, 2025March 16, 2025 by jason riley

Pick-Up Notes
The Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy

Dear Students & SJAA Families,Letter from the Director – Spring Into Music This March!

Dear SJAA Families,

Spring is in the air, bringing longer days, fresh energy, and a renewed sense of creativity! March is a wonderful time to refocus, set new musical goals, and enjoy the joy that music brings to our lives. Whether you’re preparing for upcoming recitals and contests, making the most of spring break, or simply enjoying the process of learning, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Spring Break & Music: Make the Most of Your Time Off

For many families, March means Spring Break—a much-needed pause from the usual routine. While it’s a great time to relax and recharge, it can also be the perfect opportunity to get creative and stay musically engaged! Here are a few ideas to keep music alive during your break:

Take Music Outdoors – If the weather is nice, take your instrument outside and enjoy a change of scenery! Play in a park, on the patio, or even for friends and family at a backyard get-together.

Record Your Own Music Video – Have fun recording yourself playing a favorite piece, then share it with friends, family, your teacher and the SJAA!. It’s a great way to document your progress and celebrate your hard work!

Try Something New – Experiment with a new song, improvisation, or a different instrument. If you play piano, try writing a short tune. Guitarists—see what you can create with a simple blues progression! Drummers, explore different rhythms and styles!

Practice with a Purpose – If you’re preparing for an upcoming recital, contest, or festival, use the break to fine-tune your performance. Set small, daily goals so you stay fresh without feeling overwhelmed.

Looking Ahead: Exciting Musical Moments on the Horizon!

As we move into spring, there are so many exciting things to look forward to:

District & State Music Contests, SJAMTA Evaluative Auditions & Summer Music Festivals are ahead! For students preparing for competitions, now is the time to polish those pieces and gain confidence in your playing!

New Lesson Goals – Spring is a great time to set fresh musical goals. What’s something you’d love to accomplish before summer? A new song? A performance challenge? Let’s make it happen together!

March is a time of renewal and growth, and music is the perfect way to channel that energy into something inspiring. Stay engaged, keep playing, and most importantly—HAVE FUN!

Thank you for being a valued member and part of the academy family!

Happy Spring!!

Jason & 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…

Letter from Director, Jason Riley
Important Upcoming Dates
SJAA NEWS

Inspire U Second Saturdays
Celebrating New Students
Monster Concert Update”St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day!”

… AND MORE!

March Pet of the Month

SKY!!

Thank you to Miss Addy for sharing a photo of your sweet fur baby. Each month, SJAA will select a pet to feature and a donation will be made to Friends of the Animal Shelter of St. Joseph and St. Joseph Animal Shelter in honor of all of our local pets in need. 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!

SJAA News & Updates

Happy International Women’s Day!

Today, we celebrate the incredible women who have shaped the world of music—past, present, and future! From legendary composers to the rising stars in our classrooms, women continue to inspire, create, and elevate the art of music.

To all the talented female musicians, educators, and students: Your passion, strength, and creativity are making a difference every day. We are so proud to be part of your journey. Let’s keep empowering and uplifting each other!

Here’s to the women who play the melody of change.

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.

“We Google’d You!”We’ve now reached over 50, 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 100 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 50 5-star Google reviews.

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

Monthly tuition for private lessons (30 minute weekly sessions) is $116.Review Our Lesson Policy
https://stjosephartsacademy.com/lesson-policy/

OTHER NOTES

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

UNITED FIBER has come to the SJAA!
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!

Thank you for reading -“Pick-Up Notes” –
March Newsletter from the St. Joseph Arts Academy!

It’s always a great season 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.

It’s fun! Thank you for that.

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

{| o }===:::

St. Joseph Arts Academy

2027 N 36th St

Saint Joseph, MO 64506-2241

Discover the Best Music Lessons in St. Joseph, MO – St. Joseph Arts Academy

Posted on February 13, 2025February 13, 2025 by jason riley

Are you searching for high-quality music lessons in St. Joseph, MO? At the St. Joseph Arts Academy, we offer expert instruction in a variety of instruments, including guitar, piano, voice and singing, drums and percussion, steel pan, violin, cello and strings, band instruments, and ukulele. We also provide early childhood music classes, introductory group classes for guitar and ukulele, and private lessons for students of all ages—from preschoolers to seniors.

Why Choose St. Joseph Arts Academy?

Our academy stands out as the premier choice for music education in St. Joseph, particularly for families in and around the 64506 zip code. Here’s what makes us unique:

1. Experienced & Qualified Instructors

Our team of highly skilled music educators is passionate about teaching and dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced musician, you’ll receive expert guidance tailored to your skill level.

2. Customized Music Curriculum

Every student learns differently. That’s why we create a personalized curriculum based on each individual’s learning style, goals, and musical interests. Our approach ensures that students stay motivated and progress at a pace that’s right for them.

3. Comprehensive Music Education

We offer lessons for a wide range of instruments and musical styles, ensuring a well-rounded education. From classical and jazz to pop and rock, our programs cover diverse genres and techniques to give students a rich musical foundation.

4. A Family-Friendly Environment

At St. Joseph Arts Academy, we foster a welcoming, safe, and encouraging environment where families feel confident in their child’s musical journey. Parents are always welcome to be involved and support their child’s progress.

5. Convenient Location & Flexible Scheduling

Located in the heart of St. Joseph, MO, our academy is easily accessible for families in the 64506 zip code and surrounding areas. We offer after-school, evening, and weekend lesson times, making it easy to fit music into your busy schedule.

6. Performance Opportunities

Students gain valuable stage experience through our recitals, concerts, and community performances. These events build confidence and allow students to showcase their progress in a supportive setting.

7. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our academy features dedicated practice rooms, performance spaces, and the latest teaching technology to enhance the learning experience.

8. Community Engagement

We are proud to be active in the St. Joseph community, offering outreach programs, collaborating with local schools, and participating in community events that promote the arts.

9. Commitment to Excellence

Our mission is to provide high-quality music instruction that inspires and empowers students to achieve their musical dreams. Whether you’re looking to build confidence, develop discipline, or simply enjoy making music, we’re here to help you succeed.

Join the St. Joseph Arts Academy Today!

If you’re looking for the best music lessons in St. Joseph, MO, the St. Joseph Arts Academy is the perfect place to start or continue your musical journey. Sign up today and experience the joy of music with expert instructors in a nurturing environment.

📞 Call us now to schedule your first lesson! 📍 Located in St. Joseph, MO (64506) 📧 Contact us for more details!