New York City is full of talent, but it’s those who are given the chance to harness their talents that succeed. If you have noticed your school aged child has a musical gift, or even if they have an interest that you wish to see fostered, then The Smith School of Music is an exciting opportunity for them. Providing your child with access to learning a musical instrument at a young age is one of the best foundations you can offer for a future filled with possibilities.
The Smith School of Music is located on the UWS (131 West 86th Street). Through individualized lessons in lessons in guitar (classical and rock), piano, flute, violin and drums, they provide the education, guidance and encouragement your child needs to hone their musical skills. The founders of the school, husband and wife team Damien and Jessica Kelly, have devoted their lives to creating a nurturing community where students can thrive. Damien, who is originally from Ireland, says that The Smith School of Music is now his new home.
“I want parents to know that our faculty and staff are here to support your children’s dreams and foster an environment where they can be successful. We provide lessons by which students will grow both musically and in all other aspects of life.”
Damien and Jessica have brought together highly qualified instructors.
Jessica has given over 350 flute performances in the orchestra of Love Never Dies (the sequel to The Phantom of the Opera)! The instructors come from a variety of musical backgrounds, from classical, to jazz, to pop, and can help students achieve proficiency in different genres. With this list of impressive instructors it is no wonder students are so eager to participate in their program.
Voice instructor Julia Keefee has worked with the legendary Tony Bennett and her work has won countless awards. Julia is excited to bring her energy to the classroom. Lena Vidulich is a world class violinist. She brings her experience with a variety of musical styles to the classroom. Guitarist Andrew Mines has an impressive academic resume, but has also had an incredibly successful career working with Grammy winning artists. Jenny Xu is a decorated pianist who has accomplished a great deal academically and professionally. Jenny’s dedication to her own studies and determination to excel is a great example to set for any young student.
The talents of these instructors can be seen in the incredible musical heights their students have reached.
After perfecting their crafts through individual lessons, many students will go on to form bands!
The philosophy of the school is that all students are individuals and will be treated accordingly.
“We believe it is important to find a balance between having fun playing an instrument while preserving a sense of self-discipline in order to improve. Lessons are challenging, but flexible. The school is a place where students should be comfortable and not afraid to express themselves in their musical endeavors.”
Understanding that people are busy, lessons can be flexible, and if getting to the studio is difficult, instructors can come do in-home lessons. Once a student is ready to do auditions for admittance into schools, college or competitions, studio time may be needed. The Smith School of Music will be there each step of the way to set up their students with proper gear and guide them through his or her repertoire.
“If your child wants to learn to play an instrument, it’s not magic, it takes commitment and work. If I won the lottery tomorrow, I would still do what I do now,” Damien says.
Learning an instrument is not just about learning one song. It’s about the building blocks. At The Smith School of Music, through the act of learning an instrument, children will grow and develop not just musically, but gain understanding of what it means to be committed and dedicated to a craft.
The Smith School of Music is now enrolling for the fall semester, and if you register by October 15th they are offering a $100 discount. To find more about The Smith School of Music, including rates and how to schedule lessons, please find their website here: https://www.smithschool.org/music
