Hello from the new Gardner Piano Studio!
I’m thrilled to announce our new location in the Hamline-Midway neighborhood of St. Paul. The past year has been filled with so many changes and surprises, namely, teaching online and having recitals on Zoom. In the middle of all this, I also moved to a new house and finally set up my cozy home teaching space - a dream come true! We’re now just a few miles north of our old spot, conveniently located near I-94 and Lexington Parkway.
Lessons will remain online for now, but when we can safely return to in-person lessons, the Boston baby grand is ready. For parents and families, there is a waiting area with activities as well as a playground across the street (and another one around the corner). And for those who prefer them, online lessons will continue to remain an option!
Students have really made the best of this year, and it’s been inspiring to witness their efforts and accomplishments. Back in October, they performed pieces like “Trick or Treat!” and “Creepy Creaky Songs” in addition to film music from The Twilight Saga and Harry Potter in our impromptu Halloween recital. In December, we had a full Zoom crowd for our annual holiday recital. Many students have also performed in SPPTA recitals, competed in the MMTA State Piano Contest (good luck to our finalists, who compete in a few weeks!), and are studying for music theory exams in the spring.
Speaking of spring, March is Women’s History Month!
I’m super excited to share beginning and intermediate works by women composers every day of the month. Follow my YouTube channel to listen to a new short piece every day, starting with one by my very favorite composer, Amy Beach. (Thank you, students, for inspiring me to get practicing, too!)
Finally, are you thinking about signing up for lessons or know someone who is? Join us! We have five weeks left of Winter Session before Spring Session begins in April. It’s the perfect time to get into a new musical habit.
I hope you’re staying as healthy and as well as can be, and can take solace in the fact that spring is on its way.
Happy music-making,
Lillie
