This May, we are thrilled to highlight CCM piano student Ryan Miansari for Student of the Month! Ryan has been taking piano lessons for just over 2 years now at CCM and currently studies with Teacher Sean at our Redwood City location. Teacher Sean says, “Ryan is a consistently hard-working student. He comes into each and every lesson well prepared and with an amazing, upbeat attitude. He has an incredible attention to detail and a strong sense of musicality.”
Way to go, Ryan!
Student of the Month Questionnaire – Ryan Miansari
What is your name?
My name is Ryan.
How old are you?
I’m 10 years old.
Who is your teacher?
Mr. Sean is my teacher, and he’s amazing! He makes learning fun and always believes in me. I’ve learned so much from him!
How long have you been taking piano lessons?
I’ve been learning piano for 2 years.
What advice would you give to a piano student just starting at CCM?
Don’t give up easily. Keep practicing, the days when you’ll play beautiful songs are coming soon.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
I’m really looking forward to learning ‘The Pink Panther’ and ‘Coffin Dance’ someday, both are so fun and have amazing rhythms!
What is your favorite thing about playing piano?
My favorite thing about playing piano is the peaceful feeling it brings ,it’s like giving love to each note and letting the song come alive.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite foods are tacos and pizza, and I love ice cream too.
Do you have a pet?
Yes! I have 10 fish, 2 snails, and one ghost shrimp in my aquarium. They’re fun to watch
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
Yes, I play badminton and soccer. I also love painting, and I’ve even painted a few artworks myself!
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I don’t know yet. I’m still exploring to find something amazing that’s just right for me.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
My most memorable experience at CCM was when I completed the 100 Days Challenge for the first time and earned my very first trophy!
Parent Spotlight – Negin and Morteza Miansari
We’re incredibly proud of how far Ryan has come with the piano. He’s shown so much dedication, and watching him play songs with more confidence and passion is truly rewarding. What makes it even more special is how much more patient he’s become throughout his journey.
Our advice would be to stay patient and supportive. Learning music takes time, and every little step counts. Encourage your child to have fun with the process and not just focus on the end result. A positive attitude and regular practice will make all the difference!
We decided to give Ryan a musical upbringing because we believe music helps build creativity, patience, and discipline. It’s not just about playing an instrument, but also about expressing emotions and growing in confidence. We wanted to offer him the chance to grow through music.
Check out Ryan’s recent recital performance below!
At The California Conservatory of Music (CCM), we believe that regular music practice builds more than musical skills—it builds confidence, discipline, and joy. Over the years, we’ve seen countless students grow not only as musicians but as motivated, hardworking individuals. In this blog, we’re proud to celebrate our students’ incredible accomplishments in consistent practice!
Why Regular Music Practice Matters
Regular music practice is the key to progress. It helps students build technical skills, deepen their understanding of their instrument, and prepare for recitals with confidence. Just like brushing your teeth or doing homework, practicing an instrument is most effective when it becomes a part of your daily routine.
Moreover, regular music practice teaches kids essential life skills. It cultivates patience, perseverance, time management, and problem-solving. These benefits extend far beyond music and into every area of their lives—from school to sports to personal relationships. When students learn to stay consistent with their practice, they discover what it means to work toward a long-term goal and enjoy the reward of their effort.
How CCM Encourages Music Practice
At CCM, we know that motivating students to practice daily can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve created a range of fun and effective tools to encourage regular music practice in ways that are rewarding and easy to follow.
1. Practice Streak Rewards
One of the most popular practice incentives at CCM is our streak-based reward system. Students who build streaks of daily practice are recognized with medals and certificates for their dedication. Whether a student hits one month, one year, or even six years of daily practice, their efforts are celebrated by their teacher and our community.
When students reach big milestones, their names are highlighted on our practice plaque ‘Wall of Fame’ and/or on social media, giving them an extra sense of pride. These public celebrations motivate other students and families and create a culture of encouragement and goal-setting.
2. Homework Sheets and Practice Points
Another tool we use is our weekly practice point system. Teachers assign students four tasks to work on throughout the week—these might include a new piece, scale, or theory exercise. Each task is placed in a column labeled with the days of the week.
Every day a student completes a task, they check it off. The more they practice, the more points they earn. If they bring their sheet back with at least 35 points, they earn a small prize. If they reach 170 points over four consecutive weeks, they receive a $5 Jamba Juice gift card!
This approach builds motivation by making practice tangible and rewarding, especially for younger students who love seeing their progress add up.
3. The Practice Space App
We also offer free access to the Practice Space app, a digital tool designed to track and enhance regular music practice. Through the app, students receive weekly assignments and reminders, can check off completed items, and even send practice recordings to their teacher.
The app makes practicing more interactive and accessible for tech-savvy students and helps busy parents stay in the loop. It’s a great way to keep students on track between lessons and add a fun digital component to their learning routine.
Celebrating Student Successes
CCM students have achieved incredible milestones through regular music practice. Their consistency is inspiring and proof that dedication pays off. We’d love to take a moment to spotlight some of these amazing young musicians.
Ayansh & Arika – 4 Years of Daily Practice
Ayansh and Arika, have been taking guitar lessons at CCM for four years—and they’ve practiced every single day! That’s over 1,400 days of showing up for their music and putting in the time. Their journey is a testament to the power of routine and the joy that comes from seeing growth over time.
Ilan – 3 Years and Counting
Ilan has also achieved something remarkable: three full years of daily guitar practice. He’s now well on his way to hitting the four-year mark. His consistency has made a noticeable impact on his playing, and his commitment continues to grow with every lesson.
Charles – 2-Year Streak
Charles recently celebrated his second year of consistent daily guitar practice. His progress has been impressive, and his commitment to regular music practice sets an excellent example for his peers. We’re proud to support students like Charles who keep showing up, even when it’s tough.
Aidan & Ray – 3 and 6 Years
Siblings Aidan and Ray have both reached incredible practice milestones. Aidan has completed three years of daily practice, and Ray has completed an astonishing six years. Their dedication is a true achievement and a perfect example of how music can become part of a family’s lifestyle.
What Parents Are Saying
Many parents tell us that these practice incentives have transformed their child’s relationship with music. They no longer need to be reminded to practice because they’re excited to stay on track themselves.
They’ve also shared that regular music practice has helped their children improve focus, handle frustration more effectively, and feel proud of their accomplishments. When kids feel motivated and supported, their progress becomes something they own and enjoy, not just something they’re told to do.
How You Can Support Regular Music Practice at Home
If you’re a parent thinking about enrolling your child in music lessons—or if you already have and are wondering how to support them—here are a few tips:
Create a consistent time and space for practice. Even 15 minutes a day makes a big difference when it’s done consistently.
Celebrate progress. Whether it’s a new piece learned or a practice streak reached, take time to acknowledge effort.
Use tools like the Practice Space app or weekly point sheets to stay involved and keep things fun.
Communicate with your child’s teacher. They can offer ideas and adjustments to keep practice engaging and productive.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s building a habit that helps your child grow.
Final Thoughts
At The California Conservatory of Music, we don’t just teach music—we help students build habits that set them up for long-term success. Through fun, structured practice incentives, we’re proud to see students of all ages develop their skills, confidence, and love for music.
From the first few weeks of lessons to celebrating a six-year streak, every student at CCM has the potential to succeed with regular music practice. We’re here to support every step of the journey—and we’re thrilled to celebrate the amazing dedication of our students and families.
If you’re ready to help your child build a lasting love of music, CCM is the perfect place to begin. Reach out today to schedule a free introductory lesson and see how we can support your child’s musical journey, one practice session at a time.
Few names in the classical music world are as instantly recognizable as Yo-Yo Ma. His musical career has spanned decades, genres, and continents. More than just a celebrated cellist, Ma is a cultural ambassador who has combined musical traditions with compassion and creativity. Through performance, education, and outreach, he continues to inspire audiences of all ages. At The California Conservatory of Music, we are thrilled to honor him as our May Musician of the Month.
Early Life and Inspirations
Yo-Yo Ma was born on October 7, 1955, in Paris, France, to Chinese parents. His father, a music professor, and his mother, a singer, immersed him in music from an early age. By age four, Ma began studying the cello, and his prodigious talent quickly emerged. When he was just seven years old, his family moved to New York City, where he enrolled at the Juilliard School to further his training.
Ma’s early inspirations included Johann Sebastian Bach and Pablo Casals. He admired how they conveyed deep emotion through structure and clarity. These influences shaped his style and musical curiosity. Even as a young performer, he viewed music as a way to express stories, emotions, and ideas. This foundation would become essential in his expansive and emotionally resonant career.
Ma’s Music Career
Ma gave his first public performance at age five and was soon recognized as a child prodigy. By age eight, he performed for Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy. As a teenager, he appeared on national television with composer Leonard Bernstein. After studying at Harvard University, Ma began performing with major orchestras around the world.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he released a wide array of acclaimed recordings. His interpretations of the Bach Cello Suites, in particular, received universal praise. These pieces became synonymous with his name and revealed the emotional depth and nuance he could bring to classical repertoire. He continued to tour internationally, performing with orchestras, chamber ensembles, and as a soloist.
Ma’s career has never stood still. In addition to classical works, he explored jazz, bluegrass, tango, and world music. His openness to collaboration set him apart from many other classical musicians. He worked with artists like Bobby McFerrin, Edgar Meyer, and Chris Thile. Each partnership reflected his desire to break boundaries and connect through music.
Unique Aspects of His Music
Yo-Yo Ma is not only a brilliant cellist but also a visionary artist. He believes music can connect people across cultures and experiences. This belief led to the creation of his Silk Road Ensemble. The project brought together musicians from countries along the historical Silk Road trade route. It celebrated cultural exchange and collaboration across borders.
His tone is widely regarded as warm, rich, and deeply expressive. Ma is a master of phrasing, capable of conveying subtle emotions with ease. He brings fresh perspectives to familiar works, never performing them the same way twice. His technical skill is matched by his artistic sensitivity. He often says that listening is as important as playing.
Additionally, Ma’s performances reflect joy, curiosity, and presence. He often smiles while playing, and his connection to the music feels authentic and human. He believes that music has a role in healing and building empathy. These values guide both his performance choices and his philanthropic work.
Ma’s Notable Works and Themes
Ma’s recording of the six Bach Cello Suites is among the most famous in classical music history. He has recorded them multiple times, each version reflecting new insights and interpretations. These works showcase the full expressive potential of the cello and Ma’s evolving artistry.
Another key project is his work with the Silk Road Ensemble. Albums like Sing Me Home explore global music traditions with contemporary sensibility. The ensemble’s performances include instruments like the pipa, kamancheh, and shakuhachi. These collaborations highlight the universality of music and Ma’s commitment to community engagement opportunities.
Ma also explored American roots music through his collaborations on Appalachian Journey and Songs of Joy and Peace. These albums combine classical technique with folk traditions. They demonstrate how music can cross genres without losing its soul. His partnership with Kathryn Stott on piano has resulted in many beautiful duo recordings, including pieces by Dvořák, Fauré, and Piazzolla.
A powerful example of his outreach is the Bach Project, a global tour where he performed all six Bach Cello Suites in 36 locations. Each performance was paired with community events promoting culture and civic engagement. The project underscored his belief in the cello as a tool for connection, not just performance.
Final Thoughts
Yo-Yo Ma is more than a master musician. He is an advocate for compassion, creativity, and connection. His legacy stretches far beyond concert halls. Whether playing for world leaders or in community centers, he brings the same warmth and integrity to each performance. At CCM, we admire his commitment to lifelong learning and his passion for making music accessible.
Through his career, Ma has shown that music is not confined by genre, geography, or tradition. His journey reminds us that music can open hearts and foster understanding. As we honor him this month, we hope his story inspires our students and families to listen more deeply, practice with intention, and find joy in their musical journey.
Sign up for your FREE introductory lesson at The California Conservatory of Music!
Reena Esmail, an influential figure in contemporary classical music, beautifully bridges Eastern and Western musical traditions. Her work is a testament to the power of music as a universal language. Esmail’s compositions are celebrated for their emotional depth and innovative integration of Indian classical music with traditional Western forms.
Early Life and Inspirations
Born to Indian immigrants, Esmail grew up in a culturally rich environment that nurtured her musical talents. From a young age, she was exposed to both Western classical music and the ragas of Indian classical music. This dual exposure laid the foundation for her unique musical voice. Inspired by composers like Ravi Shankar and Philip Glass, Esmail explored the interplay between these diverse musical languages.
Esmail’s Music Career
Esmail’s studied at prestigious institutions like Juilliard and Yale School of Music, where she honed her skills in Western classical composition. Her career took a significant turn when she received a Fulbright grant to study Hindustani classical music in India. This experience deepened her understanding and appreciation of her cultural heritage, which profoundly influenced her compositional style.
Unique Musical Aspects
Esmail’s compositions stand out for their seamless fusion of the intricate melodic structures of Indian music with the harmonic framework of Western classical music. She often incorporates traditional Indian instruments like the sitar and tabla into orchestral settings, creating a fascinating dialogue between the two worlds. Her approach enriches the musical experience and serves as a bridge between different musical traditions and audiences.
Esmail’s Notable Works and Themes
Among Esmail’s notable works are the “Concerto for Tabla and Orchestra,” which showcases her skill in blending Indian percussion with Western symphonic traditions, and “This Love Between Us: Prayers for Unity,” which explores themes of unity and brotherhood through texts from seven major religious traditions of India. These compositions reflect her deep commitment to using music as a means to foster understanding and connection.
Concluding Thoughts
Reena Esmail’s contributions to the world of music are profound. Through her compositions, she not only showcases the richness of her cultural heritage but also pushes the boundaries of classical music to embrace and celebrate diversity. Her work encourages listeners to think beyond conventional boundaries and appreciate the beauty of a more interconnected world.
Sign up for a FREE lesson at The California Conservatory of Music today!
This April, we’re honored to highlight CCM guitar student, Anderson Moy, for Student of the Month! Anderson has been taking guitar lessons for 3 years now at CCM and currently studies with Teacher Matt at our Sunnyvale location. Anderson has become a wonderfully talented musician! Teacher Matt says, “He has taken a big step in the last month or so by taking care of learning the basic notes and rhythms to his pieces on his own so that we are able to dig deeper into his pieces to bring out more subtle, musical details. He is not only able to respond to musical suggestions, but he has begun to work together with me in making musical decisions, suggesting things like his own crescendos in places or chosing what type of character to assign to a specific passage. Outside of lessons, Anderson does a great job of working on specific details from his weekly goals sheets, too.”
Student of the Month Questionnaire – Anderson Moy
What is your name?
Anderson Moy
How old are you?
10
Who is your teacher?
Ive had 3 main teachers at CCM – Teacher Sebastian, Teacher Carlos, and now Teacher Matt
How long have you been taking guitar lessons?
I started learning over zoom in 2021 and then I joined CCM in 2022.
What advice would you give to a guitar student just starting at CCM?
It’s ok to try out different teachers because they have different styles. It’s a helpful way to find a good teacher that suits you.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
-Heartbeats by Jose Gonzalez (because my mom likes that song).
-Hey there Delilah by Plain White T’s.
-Also I liked Malagueña I played a few months ago but want to learn the harder version.
What is your favorite thing about playing guitar?
It’s relaxing, fun, and a great workout for my fingers. I also feel calm after I practice.
What is your favorite food?
Musubi, pizza, fried rice.
Do you have a pet?
No
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
Yes- I do breakdancing and hip hop dance, I am on a competitive swim team, I play basketball, and I like to solve rubix cubes.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be an engineer
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
Playing in a CCM recital where my good friend Jinu and my little brother Adrian also played!
Check out Anderson’s recital performance here!
Parent Spotlight – Elaine Lu
I am so proud that Anderson worked hard and was self motivated to learn how to read notes (in treble clef) as opposed to tabs which a former teacher started teaching him. I am also very impressed with Anderson’s enjoyment of recital performances! He enjoys sharing with others what he has worked hard on and feels a sense of accomplishment
I personally wanted to learn a bit of guitar myself so I followed alongside Anderson in the beginning and I think that helped keep him motivated to practice and keep learning since we did it together. He has of course surpassed me long ago, but I would recommend if you can and have the time to sit down in lessons to follow along with what is being taught. You can then reinforce things at home in between lessons!
I grew up around music taught from an early age by my mom who was a piano teacher. I later switched to a stringed instrument and have had my most meaningful and memorable experiences when I was part of a youth symphony. I am hoping to instill the love of music in my son now and I think it will always be a source of creativity, artistic expression, and a source of personal identity/self-confidence.
Joshua Bell stands among the most celebrated violinists of his era, acclaimed for his captivating performances and technical finesse. From child prodigy to a luminary on the global stage, Bell’s journey reflects a life dedicated to his craft. This blog explores his inspiring journey, highlighting how his early beginnings shaped a career that continues to influence classical music.
Early Life and Inspirations
Born in Bloomington, Indiana, Joshua Bell exhibited musical talent from an incredibly young age. Bell received his first violin at four years old after his parents noticed him plucking rubber bands stretched across his dresser handles. He was soon studying with Mimi Zweig, then with Josef Gingold, a distinguished violin teacher who nurtured his burgeoning talent. These formative years laid the foundation for his deep-rooted passion for music, heavily influenced by the rich, resonant sounds of classical masterpieces and his mentors’ rigorous training methods.
Bell’s Music Career
Joshua Bell’s professional debut was nothing short of prodigious, performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the age of fourteen. His recording career began at eighteen, leading to a Grammy Award-winning discography that spans over 40 albums. Bell’s style is renowned for its blend of virtuosity and poise, which has captivated audiences worldwide. As a soloist, chamber musician, and conductor, Bell continues to mesmerize music lovers, performing more than 200 concerts a year. His career has not only been a journey through diverse musical styles and periods but also a testament to his role as an ambassador for classical music.
Unique Musical Aspects
Known for his versatility, Bell has ventured beyond classical boundaries, collaborating with artists in genres ranging from bluegrass to jazz. He utilizes a range of Stradivarius violins, most notably the Gibson ex Huberman, which produces a powerful, unique sound that has become a hallmark of his performances. His approach to music is also deeply intellectual, often reflecting on the historical context of the pieces he performs, which enriches his interpretations.
Bell’s Notable Works and Themes
Bell’s repertoire is as expansive as it is prestigious. He features works by virtuoso violin composers like Wieniawski, Brahms, and Paganini, alongside contemporary compositions tailored for him. Highlights of his career include performances at Carnegie Hall and the Vienna Philharmonic. He also had an impromptu performance in a Washington D.C. subway station, which later became a social experiment about perception and beauty. His work on film scores, most notably for “The Red Violin,” earned a Grammy Award, further cementing his influence beyond the classical music sphere.
Final Thoughts
Joshua Bell’s enduring influence in the world of classical music is undeniable. Through his performances, recordings, and personal engagements, he continues to inspire a new generation of musicians and music lovers alike. His journey reflects exceptional talent and a continuous quest for deeper musical expression and connection. As we continue to witness his evolution as an artist, his legacy offers a window into the transcendent power of music to touch hearts and minds across diverse landscapes.
Joshua Bell’s story is more than a chronicle of musical achievements; it is a narrative of relentless dedication, perpetual growth, and boundless curiosity. He remains a beacon for aspiring musicians, proving that with passion and perseverance, the language of music knows no bounds.
Sign up for a FREE introductory music lesson at The California Conservatory of Music!
At The California Conservatory of Music (CCM), music lessons extend beyond individual achievement to foster a vibrant community. We understand that music is a powerful tool for community engagement, bringing people together to share, learn, and grow together.
Building Connections Through Bi-Annual Recitals
Twice a year, CCM showcases student talent through recitals held at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. These events are not just performances but celebrations of collective achievement and milestones. They offer students a platform to share their progress and families a chance to connect, fostering a supportive network that feels more like a family.
Group Classes: A Symphony of Collaboration
CCM’s group classes for violin and guitar are designed to enhance skills and to build camaraderie among students. Our ‘Music in Me’ introduction to music class for 3-4 year olds serves as an early exposure to musical collaboration, teaching young children the joys of making music together. These classes lay the groundwork for lifelong friendships and a deep sense of community belonging.
Community Engagement Performances
Our commitment to community engagement extends beyond our classrooms and recital halls. CCM students perform at local events and retirement homes, bringing joy and music to a broader audience. These performances are not only opportunities for students to practice their skills in real-world settings but also powerful moments of connection and service to the community.
The Impact of Community Engagement Opportunities
Community engagement opportunities at CCM help students understand the impact of their music beyond personal achievement. Through this, students learn the value of interacting with your neighbors, enhancing personal development and strengthening community bonds.
Concluding Thoughts
At CCM, music lessons are a gateway to building a vibrant, supportive, and interconnected community. Through recitals, group classes, and community performances, we nurture musical talents and foster a spirit of togetherness and mutual support. Join us to experience how music can not only enrich your child’s life but also bring people together.
By integrating community-building activities, CCM educates young musicians and prepares them to be active, empathetic members of their communities. Whether it’s through sharing a stage at a recital, collaborating in a group class, or performing for local residents, our students learn that their music can resonate far beyond the notes they play.
Sign up for a FREE introductory lesson at The California Conservatory of Music!
This March, we are excited to spotlight CCM piano student Alessandria Sidella for Student of the Month! Alie has been taking piano lessons for 5 months now at CCM and currently studies with Teacher Andrew at our Redwood City location. Alie has been steadily progressing, and Teacher Andrew says she is “extremely good in her lessons, and is always receptive to the music and has great reading skills.” Keep up the great work, Alie!
Student of the Month Questionnaire – Alessandria Sidella
What is your name?
Alie Sidella
How old are you?
7 and a half years old
Who is your teacher?
Teacher Andrew
How long have you been taking piano lessons?
Since I was five years old.
What advice would you give to a piano student just starting at CCM?
Practice, practice, and practice. Have passion and fun.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
Fur Elise.
What is your favorite thing about playing piano?
I enjoy the sounds of the piano.
What is your favorite food?
Pasta
Do you have a pet?
Yes, 3 fish. I wish I have a cat.
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
I swim, dance, and learn Italian. I used to play tennis.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
A teacher.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
The last performance in February.
Parent Spotlight – Rona Sidella and Marco Sidella
Reading the notes, learning a new song. And enjoying the music.
Keep it consistent. Don’t give up, and take Teacher Andrew’s class!
Because it is good to have Alie explore all areas of interests.
