Piano Student of the Month: Defne Esin

For the month of April, we happily featuring piano student, Defne Esin, as our Student of the Month! Defne has been taking piano lessons at our Sunnyvale location for over 2 and a half years! She currently studies with Dr. Hyun! Dr. Hyun says that Defne always stays motivated and eager to learn new songs. Hyun…

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Mitsuko Uchida: April Musician of the Month

For the month of March, the California Conservatory of Music proudly honors the incomparable Mitsuko Uchida. She remains one of the most revered classical pianists of our modern era. Her performances offer more than just technical brilliance. They provide a deep, spiritual journey into the heart of the repertoire. Audiences around the world recognize her…

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Early Life Skills Kids Gain from Learning Music

Music is more than a fun after-school activity. It shapes how children think, feel, and grow. As students continue learning, they build habits and abilities that extend far beyond the instrument. These early life skills begin to influence school, friendships, and confidence. At The California Conservatory of Music, we see this transformation every day. A…

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Antonio Vivaldi: April Composer of the Month

April often brings a sense of renewal and energy. Nature begins to change, and color returns to the world. April is the perfect time to highlight Antonio Vivaldi! His music captures motion, brightness, and vivid imagination. Vivaldi remains one of the most recognizable composers from the Baroque period. His works feel lively, expressive, and full…

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Guitar Student of the Month: Nolan Chu

This March, we are excited to feature guitar student, Nolan Chu, as our Student of the Month! Nolan has been taking guitar lessons with Teacher Mario at our Sunnyvale location for 2 years now. Teacher Mario says, “Nolan has been working hard, taking the initiative to learn new music independently, and improving his techniques with…

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Yuja Wang: March Musician of the Month

Photograph by Pari Dukovic for The New Yorker — https://tinyurl.com/3tkfb8tt Yuja Wang is a pianist who reshapes how audiences experience classical music. Her performances combine technical brilliance with fearless musical expression. Audiences around the world recognize her for both precision and energy. Many great pianists can perform challenging music. However, Yuja Wang brings unusual intensity…

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Why Learning an Instrument Feels a Lot Like Learning a Language

Many parents notice surprising similarities between music and language. Both require listening, repetition, and gradual mastery. Furthermore, both skills develop through steady exposure over time. Because of this, learning an instrument often resembles the process of learning a new language. Young children rarely learn language through memorization alone. Instead, they absorb patterns through daily interaction,…

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Julia Perry: March Composer of the Month

Every month offers a chance to discover a composer with a unique musical voice. March invites us to explore the music of Julia Perry, an important American composer. Her work blends emotional power, strong structure, and bold creativity. Furthermore, her story reflects determination and artistic courage. Julia Perry built a career during a difficult time…

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Building a Positive Music Routine

Starting music lessons brings excitement and hope. Parents imagine growth, discipline, and confidence. Children imagine sound, creativity, and expression. However, the way practice fits into daily life often shapes the outcome. A healthy music routine builds joy instead of pressure. Therefore, families must approach practice with intention and care. The reasons students quit music lessons…

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Violin Student of the Month: Sal Arteaga

This February, we are happily spotlighting CCM violin student, Sal Arteaga, as Student of the Month! Sal has only been taking violin lessons at CCM for a few weeks now, but his dedication has made him stand out. Sal currently studies with Teacher Olena at our Fremont location. Teacher Olena says, “Even though he’s a…

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