Back-to-school is in full swing across all four locations, & what a way to close out the season — our summer recitals were something special. Watching students walk on stage and play what they’ve worked all year toward reminds me exactly why we do this. Now the fall momentum is here: new students, fresh goals, and teachers doing incredible things every single day. Here’s a look at what’s happening and what’s coming next!
— Chad Ebert · School Director
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Connor Edward Dutton
Voice Student
How long have you been taking lessons?
2 months.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this past month?
“Probably to open my mouth wider — even though it’s kind of basic knowledge, it’s cool to hear the difference.”
Favorite food?
Burritos.
Favorite artists?
George Harrison, Lyn Inaizumi, and Courtney Love.
A Note from Beth Sturgeon
Connor is a pleasure to have in my studio. He attends each lesson with a great attitude, a willingness to learn, and works hard to achieve his musical goals. He performed beautifully at his recital with a high level of professionalism and musicianship. I enthusiastically recommend him for Student of the Month.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
26
NOV
Thanksgiving Break 26th–27th
The school is closed from November 26th–27th. Have a great Thanksgiving break!
📍 All Locations
26
DEC
Winter Break Dec 26 – Jan 1st
The academy is closed for winter break. Merry Christmas everyone!
📍 All Locations
2
JAN
Winter Recitals
Winter recitals happen throughout the month of January.
📍 All Locations
FROM THE DIRECTOR
A monthly tip & insight from Chad
“Music lessons don’t just teach music, they rewire how children learn everything else.”
One of the more common questions I get from parents is some version of: “Is this actually worth it?” Not just the money, but the time, the practice battles, the drive to and from the studio. I get it, and I want to give you a real answer.
Decades of research in neuroscience consistently show that children who study music develop stronger working memory, better attention control, and higher reading fluency than their peers. Not because music is magic, but because learning an instrument demands something you don’t find in other activities: sustained, focused, multi-sensory effort over time. Your child is reading notation, translating it to physical movement, listening critically, and self-correcting in real time. That cognitive load is a workout unlike any other activity.
Beyond the neurological benefits, learning to play an instrument is challenging at times. Learning to work through those challenges develops skills that directly translate into other areas of life. Students learn self-discipline, develop their creativity and build their confidence.
THIS MONTH’S PRACTICE TIP
Instead of telling your child to “go practice,” try sitting with them for the first five minutes, just to listen. You don’t need to say anything. That small act of attention communicates that what they’re doing matters. Students who feel their practice is witnessed tend to practice longer and with more focus. It takes five minutes and costs nothing.
Chad Ebert — Founder & Director
MEET YOUR TEACHERS
Nic W.
Voice, Guitar & Piano
Nic is a Columbus-based musician, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist who teaches voice, piano, guitar, ukulele, and bass. He earned his Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from The Ohio State University and has performed professionally in opera productions ranging from Columbus to Prague. In addition to his work as a performer, Nic is an active singer-songwriter and operates his own recording studio. His diverse musical background allows him to help students develop strong fundamentals while exploring the styles and music they love most. When he’s not making music, Nic enjoys spending time with friends, discovering great food, and is an avid chess player.
Join 5,000+ students who've discovered the joy of music at our four Columbus locations. Start with a $29 trial lesson — No Commitment, No Pressure.