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…

Read More

John Coltrane: February Musician of the Month

John Coltrane stands as one of the most influential musicians in jazz history. His music reshaped how artists approached sound, structure, and expression. Moreover, his work challenged listeners to hear jazz as a deeply personal language. He believed music could communicate truth, struggle, and hope. As a result, his legacy continues to inspire musicians across…

Read More

Scott Joplin: February Composer of the Month

Black History Month invites reflection, history, and celebration. It offers a meaningful moment to recognize voices that shaped American music. Scott Joplin stands at the center of that story. He helped define a uniquely American sound through rhythm, structure, and creativity! Joplin’s music feels joyful, disciplined, and deeply expressive. Moreover, it bridges classical traditions with…

Read More

Maria Callas: January Musician of the Month

January often represents renewal, focus, and bold intention. It feels fitting to begin the year by honoring Maria Callas. She reshaped opera through artistry, discipline, and fearless expression. Moreover, she reminded audiences that technique and emotion must work together. Maria Callas did more than sing beautifully! She transformed how audiences experienced opera. She brought dramatic…

Read More

Voice Student of the Month: Sarah Layon

For January, we are honored to feature CCM voice student, Sarah, as Student of the Month! Sarah has been taking voice lessons at CCM for over 3 years now, and currently studies with Teacher Breanna at our Redwood City location. Teacher Breanna says, “Sarah is a very dedicated student who always comes to class with a fantastic…

Read More

Thinking About Music Lessons in the New Year? Choose the Right Instrument!

The start of a new year often brings reflection and intention for families. Parents think about routines, enrichment, and opportunities that support long-term growth. For many families, music lessons naturally enter that conversation. Music offers creativity, structure, and confidence within one meaningful activity, which makes it an appealing place to begin. Still, one question tends…

Read More

Jennifer Higdon: January Composer of the Month

January often marks a moment of renewal. Families set goals, students refocus, and new creative energy begins to form. Jennifer Higdon’s music reflects this same sense of clarity and forward motion. Her compositions feel modern, expressive, and grounded in human emotion. Moreover, her work shows that contemporary classical music can feel welcoming rather than distant.…

Read More

Piano Student of the Month: Nathan Velasquez

This December, we are honored to feature CCM piano student, Nathan, as Student of the Month! Nathan has been taking piano lessons at CCM for over 2 years now, and currently studies with Teacher Emily at our Redwood City location. Teacher Emily says, “He always does his best and brings great energy to his lessons. He’s making…

Read More

Holiday Music Traditions

The holiday season brings people together through shared traditions, family gatherings, and celebration. Across cultures and countries, holiday music plays a central role in creating that sense of connection. Songs mark important moments, tell stories passed down through generations, and help communities celebrate light, hope, and renewal. From classical concerts to folk songs sung at…

Read More

Kathleen Battle – December Musician of the Month

Kathleen Battle stands as one of the most captivating voices in modern classical music. Her singing shines with clarity, elegance, and emotional depth. She built a career that inspired audiences across the world and transformed expectations for operatic performance. Moreover, her voice carries a purity and expressive power that sets her apart from other singers…

Read More