Take Note

CYM Closed Today, January 21, 2012

2012-01-21T04:57:00.001-08:00

Due to inclement weather, CYM is closing for today. All lessons and classes are cancelled Stay safe out there!

Concerto Gala Community Concert at Legacy Theatre

2012-01-10T14:29:00.000-08:00

Community Concert with Rowena Gutana

2012-01-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

Get ready, get set, Hullabaloo!!

2012-01-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

Suzuki Parents as Partners Registration 2012

2012-01-03T11:55:00.000-08:00

Parents as Partners Online will return January 30

Are you a parentin need of rejuvenation?

Want to hear from others on how to make practice moreeffective?

Need some input on how to make review fun?

Wondering how tobalance a busy schedule?

If so, then Parents as Partners Online is for you!

The 2012 Parents as Partners projectwill feature more than 30 new inspirational talks, plus selected presentationsfrom the 2011 PPO event. Aimed to provide a dose of parent education onSuzuki-related topics, all sessions can be viewed online at the SuzukiAssociation of the Americas website at your convenience, 24-7.

A few new talks willbe posted once a week in February and March and you will be notified by email.Once posted, everything can be viewed until the end on June 30.

Here’s a glimpseinto the new and informative topics for both parents and teachers:

Sue Baer: A Star for Victor
Lauren Baker: Sharing the Vision of Excellence
Beatrice Blanc: Practice Buddies
Beth Cantrell: Nurturing the Individual: Rivers, Trails and Time
Teri Einfeldt & Anne Lambright: Our Ambitions, Our Children—A Reality Check!
Sasha Garver: Preparing for Recitals and Performances
Carrie Reuning-Hummel: Help! I’m So Different From (and Similar To) My Child
James Hutchins: Guarantees for More Progress During Practice—The Sequel
Ellie LeRoux: A Realistic Look at Balancing Activities
Joanne Martin: Why Delayed Reading is Important
Lynn McCall: The Suzuki Early Childhood Experience
Sarah Montzka: Dynamic Practice: Creative Movement Games for Channeling Energy, Regaining Focus and Productive Practice
Fernando Pinero: Power of Music
Laurie Scott: Children on the Autism Spectrum: Collaborating Towards Success
Lucy Shaw: Are We Having Fun Yet? Part 2
Kimberly Meier-Sims: Suzuki Perspectives
Ann Montzka Smelser: Trusting Your Teacher
Kathleen Spring: How You Can Be Helpful and Supportive of Your Teacher
Ed Sprunger: Power
Rafael Vidiera: The Rewards from the Special Ones

...Plus presentations from many other Suzukiteachers and parents!

CYM is happy tooffer Parents as Partners to CYM families for $8. More information can be found at the Suzuki website here.

Please enroll by January 16 by sendingan email to Leah at lgivelber@youngmusicians.org .

Welcome, New Year

2012-01-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome, 2012! We are glad to be back to making music with a whole new year ahead of us. A few things to start your new year off right:

1. Rev your practicing engine with this month's practice chart. For those students who are completing their 200 day challenge, or for those who just want a warm up for the February Practice Challenge month (when medals are awarded!), print out this December Practice Chart, and hop to it!

2. Feed your brain with a fascinating article on NPR about Stradivarius violins. Can you hear the difference?

3. Invite your friends to join us here at CYM! The new year is a great time to start discovering music- be is Toddlers, Twinklers, or starting an instrument. Interested families can give us a call at 724-935-0505 or send an inquiry to admissions@youngmusicians.org

CYM's Winter Break Begins Today

2011-12-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

by Pittsburgh painter Linda Barnicott

As a reminder, CYM's Winter break is today, December 19th through Saturday, December 31st.

Have a warm and happy holiday, and we will see you all back again in the New Year!

A Very Merry Weekend at CYM...in review!

2011-12-08T09:25:00.001-08:00

Eden and Winchester Thurston Students at Pristine Pines, Holiday 2010

Thursday, December 8, 4:15 pm: CYM's Eden Christian Academy and Winchester Thurston Strings School Day Programs spread cheer to the residents of Hampton Fields Village this evening with festive holiday music!

Reka Gotz (above) and Alexandra Schnatterly performs at PPG Wintergarden 2010

Saturday, December 10, 4:00-5:00 pm: CYM student pianists and guitarists perform among the iconic holiday display at the Wintergarden at PPG Place. Performers, be sure to arrive at 3:30 pm, and bring your instruments (guitarists), and music with you. Ms. Sonia and Mr. Mark will seat students in order to perform.

This performance is open to all CYM families, and is free and open to the public!

Candlelight Evenings at Phipps Conservatory

Sunday, December 11, 3:00-4:00 pm: CYM student violinists and cellists perform among Phipp's Winter Botanical display as part of the Candlelight Evenings the month of December. Performers, please arrive at 2:30 at the main entrance of Phipp's. Please remember to bring your music, instruments, stands, and stools.

Families will be provided one complementary ticket for admission per performer to be used for a family member's admission- please find Autumn upon entrance to Phipp's for your ticket. Performers need no ticket to be admitted. Family and friends will need to purchase a ticket to attend. Tickets may be purchased at Phipp's that day. More information here.

Pictures from PPG Wintergarden and Phipps Conservatory...enjoy! Many more photos can be found on the Center for Young Musicians Facebook page. Parents, if you would like to share your lovely photos from this weekend, please send them over to info@youngmusicians.org, or just tag us in your Facebook submissions!

Lost and found!

2011-12-05T09:52:00.001-08:00

Traffic Delays near CYM Wexford tomorrow!

2011-12-02T08:24:00.001-08:00

Saturday families, be aware of traffic restrictions for your trip to CYM Wexford tomorrow! Read more about it here.

2011 Holiday Event Schedule

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Sewickley Light Up Night- What you need to know!

2011-11-30T09:13:00.001-08:00

CYM's annual performance at Light Up Night this year should be a great one!

A favorite of the CYM community, Sewickley Yuletide Light Up Night festivities launch the holiday season for the surrounding community with the quaint downtown as a backdrop to live entertainment, carriage rides, and fireworks! CYM families, friends, are welcome to attend this fun event- it is free and open to the public.

Performers and their families, please make a note of the following information for Friday evening:

PARKING- You are encouraged to utilize the parking available in the free Sewickley Valley Hospital parking lot- exit the lot and walk down Locust Street onto Beaver. Use this handy map to navigate other free parking areas.
TIMING- The students are arranged in 30 minute blocks. Please be prompt andarrive 10 minutes early to get instruments out and tuned. We ask that yoube flexible as the possibility to go a little earlier or later than your timeslot may arise.
SPACE- Enter Penguin Bookshop at the front entrance on Beaver Street. CYM staff will be present to guide you where you need to go. Space in the Munchkin's Loft (upstairs) will be tight so parents should be prepared to holdtheir child’s violin or cello case for the duration of their performance.
INSTRUMENTS- Some of you have asked if it would be possible to leave instruments at thePenguin Book Shop while enjoying the rest of the evening; due to the spaceconstraints that won’t be possible.
DRESS- Feel free to wear fun holiday attire. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather!

Final Student Performance Schedule (for your reference)

6PM:

1)  Anna Murray, piano – Jingle Bells

2)  Ava Heinricher, violin -- Allegretto from book 1 Suzuki, & Good

King Wenceslas.

3)  Grant Goetze, violin – What Child is This(with Ms. Leah Givelber)

4)  Lucille McCargo, piano - Jingle Bells & Twinkle Theme

5)  Emma Bellote, piano – Silent Night

6)  Rachel Spear, piano – Away in a Manger

7)  Bruce David piano - Up on the Housetop & Jingle Bells

8)  Betsy Watters, piano - What Child is This & Christmas Day Secrets

9)  Johnny Watters, piano - Jingle Bell Boogie & Minuet in G

10) Fife McCargo, piano - Angels We Have Heard on High & Minuet in G

11) Grant McCargo, piano - O Holy Night and Rondo

6:30 PM:

1.  Emma Lammert, violin – Good King Wenceslas (with Mr. Lammert)

2.  Annie Commerci, violin- Jingle Bells

3.  Gabi Gotz, piano - O Christmas Tree & Chant Arabe

4.  Julianna Faber, piano - O Come All Ye Faithful

5.  Andrew Li, piano - Jingle Bells & Twinkle Theme

6.  Annie Commerci, piano- Christmas Day Secrets & Chant Arabe

7.  Joshua Faber, piano - We Wish You a Merry Christmas

8.  Elsa Gordon, piano - O Come All Ye Faithful & Twinkle Variation A

9.  Reka Gotz, piano - Carol of the Bells & Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring

6:45 FIREWORKS

7PM

1)  Olivia McLeod, violin – Chorus from Judas Maccabeus

2)  Andres Bonilla, Olivia McLeod, Adam Ward, Anna Genter, violin – Up on a Housetop

3)  Anna Straka, violin – Silent night (Isabel Straka, piano acc.) & The Holly and the Ivy (Ms. Leah violin acc.)

4)  Kathryn Allen, piano - Good King Wenceslas & Jingle Bells

5)  Anna Straka, piano - Angels We Have Heard on High

6)  Isabel Straka, piano - O Holy Night

7)  Ben Capozzi, piano - Silent Night & Allegretto 1

8)  Nick Straka, piano - Up on the Housetop

7:30PM

1)  Heather, Hope and Ms. Stella , violin – Joy to the World & Up on the Housetop

2)  Nicholas Vieira, violin - Lightly Row

3)  Bernardo Vieira, violin - Minuet 1 & Silent Night

4)  Anna Genter, violin – Minuet by Boccherini

5)  Isabelle Genter & Anna Genter, violin -

6)  Josephine Reiter, violin - Minuet 1 from book 1 Suzuki, & Jingle Bells

7)  Isabel Graham, piano - Pat-a-Pan & Whirling Leave

8)  Nicholas Vieira, piano - Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

9) Carsyn Nash, piano – We wish you a Merry Christmas

10) Natalie Williams, piano - Carol of the Bells & Christmas Time is Here

11) Lindsay Williams, piano - Away in a Manger

12) Tony McCann, piano - Christmas Time is Here

13) Coleman Carey, cello – Twinkle Theme or Blues

14) Colin Helbling, cello –  Jingle Bells

15) Bob Carey, cello – We wish you a Merry Christmas & Silent Night

A great big Thank You to Ms. Ingrid Beute, our lead faculty member, CYM teachers and staff, and the great folks at Penguin Bookshop for making this evening possible!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T14:23:00.001-08:00

Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them,

is the true measure of our thanksgiving. ~W.T. Purkiser

We have much to be thankful for here at CYM-

we wish all our families a warm, blessed holiday.

Thanksgiving break is November 22-26.

Classes resume Monday, November 28th.

Give Thanks Community Concert with Ms. Ingrid Beute... in review!

2011-11-18T12:54:00.001-08:00

Andres Bonilla

Gabriel Gotz

Ms. Ingrid Beute

Lochlan McGinnis

Haley Raphael, Meredith Hudock, Anthony Cicco

Ensemble Recital and Practice Challenge Winners!

2011-11-11T11:34:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to all students who performed in the Annual CYM Ensemble Recital on Saturday, November 5th! Special thanks to CYM faculty and staff for making this great afternoon of music possible.

Thomas Synnott, cellist, CYM Dad, and media guru recorded portions of the recital here to share with our families! Enjoy!

Congratulations are also in order for our October 2011 Practice Challenge Winners:

Be sure to check out all the pictures on our Facebook page!

It's Official! CYM Students will perform at Penguin Bookshop for Sewickley Light Up Night

2011-11-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

Sign Up to Perform at Sewickley Light Up Night

2011-10-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

Annual Ensemble Recital is November 5th- What you Need to Know

2011-10-27T14:25:00.001-07:00

Next Saturday at 3 pm is our first all school event of the season– theFall Ensemble Recital at Marshall Middle School! All CYM students, families and friends areinvited to attend. Most CYM instrumentalstudents will be performing, so the recital should provide a lovely afternoon full of music. ECM families, this is a great opportunity for your Toddler or Twinkler student to hear and see all the different instruments in action- be sure to attend!

All performers need to arrive at Marshall Middle School by2:30 pm in order to have their instruments tuned and to find their assignedseats before the concert time. The dressfor all performers is black pants or skirts, white tops, or black dresses. All skirts and dresses should be at the kneeor below, and no sneakers or flip flops on stage please.

Performers who are involved in the Star Spangled Bannerperformance that morning for the Tae Kwon Do Tournament at the Pine Richland Youth Center should also wear black and white concert dress to both performances.

Holiday 2011 Concert Season Preview!

2011-10-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

Give Thanks to Music Community Concert featuring Ingrid Beute

2011-10-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

Candlelight Recital featuring Ms. Rowena Gutana and Nathan Carterette

2011-10-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Ms. Rowena and Nathan Carterette at CYM's June Community Concert

CYM's own Rowena Gutana, cello and Nathan Carterette, piano are preforming as part of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church All Saints Music Festival, held during the week of November 1-6.

Their Candlelight Recital will be held in the sanctuary of St. Andrew's Church on Friday, November 4th at 8:00pm. The concert is free and open to the public. The All-Bach program will include the Goldberg Variations and Unaccompanied Suite for Cello. Click through for more information on Nathan Carterette, and St. Andrew's Music.

Ms. Rowena wants to extend a welcome to all CYM students and families. Mark your calendar for this lovely evening of music.

Community Concert featuring Leah Givelber and Ingrid Beute... In Review!

2011-10-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the fall harvest of CYM’s students and faculty onOctober 15 at 4 pm at the Wexford Community Presbyterian Church!

Student performers will share works by Bach, Vivaldi andmore.

Leah Givelber, violin, and Ingrid Beute, piano, will playthe Sonata in E Major, Opus 1 no. 15by Handel, The Strenuous Life byScott Joplin and Hoedown from Rodeoby Aaron Copland.

Congratulations to everyone who participated in Saturday's Community Concert! Pictures of the lovely afternoon below...

Grant McCargo Graduates Suzuki Book Three... in Review!

2011-10-05T13:04:00.000-07:00

Congratulations are in order for Grant McCargo as he graduates from Suzuki Piano Book Three! His recital celebrating this achievement will take place at CYM Sewickley, October 17th at 5:05pm.

All family, friends, and CYM families are invited to attend!

Grant performs for a room full of family and friends at CYM Sewickley.

Grant's little sister, Lucille, gives him a big congratulations hug!

Classical Parent Training Course- a Parent Response to Week Two

2011-10-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

Classical Parent Training Course – a Parent Response to WeekTwo

A CYM parent submitted this very thoughtful response to theweek two parent training question:

Consider the patience and perseverance needed to meet Dr.Suzuki’s ideal home environment. Whatare your thoughts?

I feelvery drawn to Dr. Suzuki’s description of the home environment he envisions topromote talent education. It feelsentirely right on. It focuses our priorities on helping to formchildren’s character and give them a profound and beautiful vision of life andsees music as intimately connected to that process. Regarding musical education, he offers verypractical analogies (e.g. acquisition of language) that very clearly show howmusical immersion in childhood, combined with ongoing practice leads to musicbecoming a part of a child and notjust something he or she “can do.”

I thinkthe biggest challenge is to face the truth that when Dr. Suzuki talks about theimportance of exposing children to great, noble people there is also theimplication that we as parents have the potential to be either great ornot-so-great influences, but we willbe an influence either way due to how much we are a part of our children’searly environment and ongoing environment, too. His writing inspires me to see how I can develop myself and our home tobe that noble environment and assist my children in persevering in theirformation toward a beautiful, truth-filled life.

Encouraging daily, consistent practice, withpatience, is helping my child to develop inner motivation and to be drawntoward the study of music for its own sake.

Congratulations to Melanie Drake as the firstresponder to our first Classical Parent Training Course question! Melanie won her choice of CDs from our CD collection! See her winning response here!

Be sure to respond in our comments section to the week three Classical Parent Training Course question:

What are your thoughts on creating the ideal homeenvironment?

Kelly Friday Graduates Suzuki Book 5... date change!

2011-09-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, October 11th, Kelly Friday will celebrate her graduation from Suzuki Book 5 with a recital held at CYM Wexford. Piano students and their families are encouraged to attend as well as all CYM family and friends. Join Kelly in the downstairs Group Room at 6:45pm to hear the Suzuki Book 5 piano repertoire! Congratulations, Kelly!

Kelly's Recital has been moved to next Tuesday, October 18th at 6:45pm due to a scheduling conflict. Be sure to attend!

Welcome to CYM, Ashley Buckley and Stella Bonilla!

2011-09-30T11:22:00.000-07:00

We want to extend a big welcome to the newest members of our staff:

Ms. Ashley Buckley and Ms. Stella Bonilla!

Ms. Ashley Buckley is a long-time resident of Pittsburgh since 2006, earning her Master of Music in violin performance at Carnegie Mellon University and as a performer with the Frya String Quartet. Ashley came to us from the Cleveland after earning her Bachelor degree in violin performance at Cleveland Institute of Music.

Ashley is an accomplished performer, participating in many ensembles- notably the Westmoreland Symphony, Pittsburgh Opera Theater, the Erie Philharmonic, and the Youngstown Symphony. Most recently, Ashley spent a portion of time performing with Barry Manilow's touring orchestral ensemble! Ashley is joining us as an active violin faculty member, developing a violin studio as well as instructing ECM and American Legends groups.

Mrs. Bonilla holds a Bachelor of Music degree in violin performancefrom the Bulgarian State Academy of Music, a Master of Music in Conducting anda Doctorate of Musical Arts, both from Louisiana State University. While living in Louisiana, shetaught private violin lessons and performed with the Baton Rouge and AcadianaSymphonies. She also held the post of leading conductorof the Acadiana Symphony Youth Orchestra and the SlidellCommunity Orchestra.

In 2001, Mrs. Bonilla and herfamily moved to Akron, Ohio, where she established a new violin studio andjoined the Akron Symphony and Classic Touch Strings Orchestra. She also thought at the WayneCenter for the Arts in Wooster. In 2009, Mrs. Bonilla was appointed astrings teacher and orchestra director at the Spring Garden Waldorf School inAkron, Ohio. Mrs. Bonilla is registered thoughbook 3 with the Suzuki Association of the Americas. She joins us as an active violin faculty member, leading the Eden Strings program, as well as developing a violin studio.

Welcome Ashley and Stella!

October Practice Challenge

2011-09-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Along with snuggly sweaters, leaf piles, and choosing that spooky Halloween costume this year comes CYM's October Practice Challenge! Our first Practice Challenge month of the school year (along with February and May) is the perfect time to challenge yourself to daily practice the length of your lesson time. It takes 21 days to develop a habit- jump start your practicing habits with this handy calendar. Complete one month of daily practicing, and not only will you have the feeling of accomplishment and confidence playing your instrument, you will also be recognized and awarded a medal at the November Ensemble Concert!

Pick up a challenge calendar in Sewickley or Wexford, or print one off the Parent's Page (Resources/Parent's Page) section of our website at www.youngmusicians.org.

Happy practicing, everyone!

September Song and Dance Community Concert... in review!

2011-09-23T12:37:00.000-07:00

Ms. Tanya and Michelle Bitler

Tomorrow afternoon's September Song and Dance Community Concert is bound to be a wonderful occasion you won't want to miss- CYM's first Community Concert of the school year! The concert includes student musicians from our piano, violin, and cello studios presenting pieces from Bach, Vivaldi, Mendelssohn, and Telemann. CYM's Ms. Tanya Satteson, violin, and Michelle Bitler, piano, will perform the stunning Brams' Violin Sonata No. 1 in GM Op. 78 as well as La Streghe, Op. 8 by Paganini.

The concert is at the Wexford Presbyterian Church located right on Route 19 at 4:00 pm. Family, friends, and neighbors are all invited to attend! See you there!

Congratulations Meredith and Anthony!

2011-09-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

Congratulations go out this week to Meredith Hudock forearning the principal viola spot in the Three Rivers Young Person’s Orchestra -good work Meredith!

Congratulations also to Anthony Cicco for not only makingthe PMEA Honors Orchestra as a freshman, but also being named principal secondviolin - great job Anthony!

Concert Calendar

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Mark your Calendar!

Mark your calendar for theseupcoming concerts:

September Song and Dance Concert

September 24, 4 pm, WexfordCommunity Presbyterian Church

Comeenjoy the music of Brahms and Paganini played by Tanya Satteson, and

MichelleBitler! CYM students will be performinga variety of repertoire in the first half of the concert.

Applefest

October 1, 1 pm, Winchester Thurston North

JoinMs. Leah and violinists for a performance at Winchester Thurston North’s Applefest! Applefest is a festival with many fun, fall activities so plan onstaying after the concert to enjoy the day! Contact Ms. Leah for more details.

Star Spangled Banner at Tae Kwon Do Tournament

November 5, morning, Tae Kwon Dotournament

Violinand cello students are invited to perform the Star Spangled Banner at the opening of a tournament. This is a great opportunity to perform ournational anthem - contact Ms. Tanya formore details.

Sewickley LightFest and CYM Sewickley's Grand Opening

December 2, Sewickley Light UpNight

Pleasecome play your favorite holiday songs and celebrate the opening of

CYM’s new Sewickley location.

Wintergarden

December 10, 4 pm, Wintergarden

Pianists and guitarists are welcome to take part in the lovely traditionof Christmas carols and holiday songs atthe PPG Wintergarden downtown.

Classical Parent Training Course- comments welcome!

2011-09-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

All parents with beginning students inthe Classical program will take part in the Parent Training Course. The Parent Training Course is aten week course of readings and discussions that take part in your lesson - andon our Parent’s Page and Take Note Blog! Your teacher will give you thereadings, reading assignments and questions each week. You will also be able to access thequestions via the Parent’s Page too. CYM teachers will post thoughts on the reading on the blog fromtime to time, and we would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section ofthe blog!

To get things started let us know yourthoughts on most important ideas of the Suzuki approach: talent. Use thecomments section to respond to the question:

How do you hear the phrase talent, orlack of talent, used in our schools and culture? What does it mean to you?

A prize for the first person tocomment!

Welcome Back!

2011-09-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

print by chaldea

Welcome back to a brand new year of learning at CYM- we hope your first week went smoothly! This year is shaping up to be an exciting one- we will welcome new happenings, new faces, and new places as we grow CYM's mission.

Keep your eye out for progress at 437 Beaver Street, our new Sewickley home. Mr. Tim and his crew are working hard to make the new space our very own. Be sure to wave to them if you walk by!
We welcome Ms. Ashley Buckley, violinist, to the CYM staff this Fall, and anticipate Ms. Stella Bonilla, violinist, joining us later this month. These wonderful ladies come to us as skilled performers and enthusiastic musical pedagogues. Be sure to say hello!
As Fall comes upon us, new classes are beginning at CYM City Campus, our new home at the Winchester Thurston School campus. Little ones are already enjoying Toddlers, Twinklers, and American Legends. Let your friends know about our new location- all are welcome!

To help you navigate your experience during the 2011-2012 School Year, we created a CYM Survival Guide just for you! This quick reference guide (perfect for your refrigerator) is a handy go-to for all of your day-to-day questions and contacts.

Survival Guides are being distributed this week, and will also be located on our website via the Parent's Page located under the Resources tab.

If you have not already, fill out your Contact Preferences form for this school year, as well as the new Media Release Form- both are attached to your Survival Guide.

September Song and Dance Concert with Ms. Tanya Satteson

2011-09-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

CYM City Campus plans to open its doors at Winchester Thurston School

2011-08-30T13:03:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to announce that with the commencement of our 18th school year, the Center for Young Musicians is opening its doors in Pittsburgh's beautiful Shadyside neighborhood. Located on the lovely Winchester Thurston School city campus, classes at CYM are open to everyone.

This Fall, CYM’s Monday- Saturday class schedule includes weekly classes during and after the school day, and Saturday mornings. Early Childhood Music group classes will introduce 2-5 year olds to the beginnings of music, American Legends group classes offer instruction for those students ages 5-8 just beginning as musicians and serving as a foundational music course for those already playing an instrument. Private lessons are offered for all children ages 5 and up (even the young at heart- adults are welcome, too!) for piano, violin, viola, cello, and guitar. For more information on scheduling, pricing, and admissions, send an email to admissions@youngmusicians.org or call 724-935-0505.

We look forward to the bright future of CYM and our Wexford, Sewickley, and Pittsburgh communities this year and appreciate the privilege of developing our wonderful young people in their relationship with music here in Pittsburgh.

CYM Sewickley: Fall Project Update

2011-08-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

CYM is going green- future home 437 Beaver street gets a face lift!

Amidst the exciting new developments coming to Sewickley's downtown business district, our project team is diligently working on improvements to 437 Beaver Street- the future site of CYM Sewickley. As our new site develops, plans for opening are moving to a December Grand Opening.

Meantime, Fall classes will begin on schedule at our current location- 434 Beaver Street beginning September 6th. Sewickley families should keep an eye on our new home as it develops, and be ready for a transition to a fantastic new facility mid-year!

Happy Summer Break, Everyone!

2011-08-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Happy smiles from Ms. Rochelle's Monday evening Toddlers class of 2010-2011

Another great year at CYM has passed- full of so many fun, interesting, and new experiences. Be sure to take a trip though our Take Note blog post archives for a bird's eye view of our memorable 2010-2011 school year.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you- our families, friends, and supporters- for making CYM a fantastic place to learn, play, work, and just be ourselves.

Enjoy your summer break, we'll be waiting for you with open arms on September 6th, ready for a new and exciting year of making music with you!

Until then...

Goodbye to Michelle Bitler (for a little while)

2011-07-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

Ms. Tanya and Ms. Michelle performed at their dual community concert last year

Ms. Michelle plays on CYM's Sweet 16 Concert

Ms. Tanya, Ms. Rowena, and Ms. Rochelle performed a lovely trio

Ms. Rowena and Ms. Michelle pause for a picture during the 2008 visit to the White House

Alison Shiflett and Ms. Michelle at a community concert

This week marks Michelle’s last week at CYM for a time. Michelle is taking a leave for the next year to spend time with her family and with her family’s horse boarding business. Luckily Michelle will not be far away. She will also be a part of some faculty performances next year - keep an eye out for when she will be performing!

Britta Lagerquist Graduates Violin Book Three!

2011-07-21T15:11:00.000-07:00

Sisters Karolina and Britta Lagerquist after a successful recital

Congratulations are in order for Britta Lagerquist upon her graduation from Suzuki violin Book Three. Britta, accompanied by her sister Karolina on piano, presented her graduation recital last Tuesday evening, July 19th, to the warm reception of CYM friends and family at CYM Wexford. Bravo on this great milestone, Britta!

Join Ms. Ingrid Beute, CYM Staff, and students for our summer community concert...in review!

2011-07-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Pirates vs. Astros: CYM Strings perform our National Anthem...in Review!

2011-07-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

Participants checked in to the Park offices at 5:30 and patiently waited, tuned, and polished their piece in the administrative underbelly of PNC Park stadium. With much anticipation,students and staff were led on field and assembled behind home plate. During the short wait time until on-field ceremonies, students enjoyed the up-close pre-game rituals and activities of cameramen and sportscasters, and were even conducted by our Pittsburgh Pirates Parrot, sporting a "McClucken" jersey!

Under the direction of Ms. Leah Givelber, Ms. Rowena Gutana, and Ms. Rochelle Agnew, our poised violinists and cellists presented their rendition of the Star Spangled Banner to a warm and appreciative crowd. The group exited the field with waves of hello to family and friends in the stands amid smiles and thank yous from the waiting Pirates players, media, and staff, then readying for the start of the game. Afterward, students and families enjoyed a beautiful evening of baseball- the Bucs pulled ahead with a 3-1 lead, but went on to be defeated by the Astros in the later innings. No matter, as the summer breeze, picturesque skyline, rollicking crowd, and racing pierogies reminded everyone of just how special a night in Pittsburgh can be.

Thank you again, to all of our families and participants for an unforgettable evening!

Congratulations to:

Julia Solomon

Annie Chimera

Bob Carey

Coleman Carey

Josephine Reiter

Annie Comerci

Britta Lagerquist

Karsten Lagerquist

Abigail Hartman

Anna Straka

Colin Helbling

Kazumasa Tobita

Meredith Hudock

Anthony Cicco

Alexandra Schnatterly

Julia Freeman
Elliott Drake

Colin Helbling
Julian Shipp
Walter Navid
Ava Heinricher
Nora Navid
Anna Straka

It's a CYM night in Pittsburgh!

Summer Community Concert featuring Ms. Ingrid Beute

2011-06-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

CYM on Saturday Light Brigade Radio

2011-06-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

We hope you have all been following CYM students' adventures as featured musicians on Pittsburgh's family friendly radio program Saturday Light Brigade, stationed out of the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh.

We are so proud of the groups who have performed so far, and look forward to a second group of cellists to perform on the show soon!

Ms. Sonia and CYM pianists made their radio debut on June 4th

Hear the pianists' recorded radio session HERE.

Ms. Leah, Ms. Tanya and CYM violinists in the SLB studio on June 11th

Hear the violinists' recorded session HERE.

Annie Chimera performs this past Saturday morning

Karsten Lagerquist represents Ms. Rowena's cellists on SLB

Hear the cellists' recorded session HERE.

A great big thank you and congratulations to our student performers and their families, and Ms. Leah, Ms. Sonia, Ms. Tanya, and Ms. Rowena for preparing their students for this fun opportunity! Great job, everyone!

Community Concert with Ms. Sonia Tripathi- this Friday!

2011-06-08T14:31:00.000-07:00

It's a CYM Night in Pittsburgh!

2011-06-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

Students prepare to hit the field before our 2009 performance

All family and friends are invited to come and cheer on our students at Prates vs. Astros July 6th!

All guests are welcome to take advantage of CYM's discounted tickets to support our string players as they perform the National Anthem during the on-field ceremony, set for Wednesday, July 6 at 7:05 pm.

Grandmas, grandpas, aunts, uncles, cousins, next-door-neighbors, church or temple friends, everyone and anyone you know who supports the happy combination of Pittsburgh sports and local youth music- tell them buy their ticket now! Here's how:

Pick up a ticket order form (available in the information bins in Wexford and Sewickley) or call Tom Karayusuf at 412-325-4774 or email tom.karayusuf@pirates.com.

This year's line up:

Julia Solomon

Annie Chimera

Bob Carey

Coleman Carey

Josephine Reiter

Annie Comerci

Britta Lagerquist

Karsten Lagerquist

Abigail Hartman

Anna Straka

Colin Helbling

Kazumasa Tobita

Meredith Hudock

Anthony Cicco

Alexandra Schnatterly

Julia Freeman

Participants, you were sent an email confirming your participation and including details you need to know for the performance. Read the document carefully so that you are prepared!

***Please note that performers and their families must purchase tickets to participate.

It's a CYM night in Pittsburgh!

Karsten Lagerquist Graduates Cello Book Five.. in review!

2011-06-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

Karsten performs Rondo from Concerto in G Major at CYM's Spring Solo Recital in April

Congratulations to Karsten Lagerquist as he celebrates his graduation from Suzuki Cello Book 5 this week! Karsten welcomes friends and family to his Graduation Recital, held at 4:45pm during the Cello Group class this coming Thursday at CYM Wexford. Bravo, Karsten!

A happy Karsten immediately following a great recital.

The whole Lagerquist family came to celebrate!

Anna Genter and Olivia McLeod Celebrate with Graduation Recitals...in review!

2011-06-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Olivia performs from Suzuki Book 1

Anna performs from Suzuki Book 2

Olivia is ready to play

Last Wednesday afternoon, Anna Genter and Olivia McLeod shared in celebrating their graduations within the Suzuki method with a dual Graduation Recital at CYM Sewickley. Anna is graduating from Suzuki Vioin Book Two, and Olivia from Suzuki Violin Book One. Both girls performed their selections beautifully for classmates, family, and friends.

Congratulations Anna and Olivia, on a job well done!

Anna and Ms. Alicia

Sewickley Sneak Peek...

2011-06-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

This neat little sketch was drawn up by Heather Wildman, the lovely architect helping design our school.

This was the initial concept sketch for the new CYM Sewickley store front. What do you think? Anything you would like to see as a part of your new CYM home?

If you haven't yet, be sure to vote via Facebook for what color you'd like to see our storefront painted!

Community Concert featuring Ms. Rowena Gutana...in review!

2011-05-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

These lovely photographs are provided by Mr. Jason Satteson.

To view more, check out our Facebook page!

Coleman and Bob Carey

Sawyer Wright performs Lightly Row

Juian Shipp performs Ants

Bob Carey performs Rigadoon

Anthony Cicco performs Tempo di Minuetto

Ms. Rowena Gutana and Mr. Nathan Carterette perform Beethoven's Sonata for Piano and Cello

Bryson Cook Graduates Suzuki Book One

2011-05-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Bryson performs Musette at this year's Solo Recital

Congratulations to Bryson Cook, who graduates Suzuki Cello Book One! Bryson's Graduation Recital will be held on Thursday, June 2nd, at 3:30 p.m. in the Purple Room in CYM Sewickley. The recital is open to family and friends.

CYM's New Home in Sewickley

2011-05-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

CYM is delighted to announce that beginning in early summer, we will begin the demolition and remodeling of a new home for CYM Sewickley at 437 Beaver Street downtown! This exciting new chapter of CYM's history is set to open in September 2011 with the commencement of our 18th Fall semester.

Sewickley families may have already noticed the panels of color on the facade of our future new home, and are wondering just what we're up to- we are working diligently to create a wonderful environment for learning, performing, and sharing the love of music.

We will keep you posted about all of the fun updates, but for now, log on to our facebook page, and vote for what color you think we should paint the building! You can also leave a comment on what you'd like to see included in our new home below in the comments section!

Make Up Week Reminder

2011-05-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

We encourage all CYM students to take advantage of Makeup Week, June 27– July 2, to make up missed group classes and individual lessons.

June 27 is the makeup day for Memorial Day, so all classes will happen as scheduled. For the rest of the week, Group makeup times will be offered at regularly scheduled class times. If you missed a group class and were unable to make it up during the school year, now is the time! Individual makeup lessons will be scheduled as needed. No lessons will happen unless you schedule them.

Please contact Leah, Autumn or Karen at CYM or at scheduling@youngmusicians.org by June 20^th to schedule your group class or individual lesson time during Makeup Week.

Remember, no lessons will happen unless we hear from you, so please contact us soon!

2011-2012 Enrollment Forms Due Now!

2011-05-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already, we need your Enrollment Forms for the 2011-2012 School year! Time is of the essence- we are already planning a great Fall semester, but are missing forms from some families.

Even if you are unsure of what exactly to register for next year, please submit your form now! You are welcome to call and change your registration status after you submit your enrollment.

Know that the longer you wait to submit your forms, the more unlikely it becomes that your family will get their first choice of lesson and class times. Be prompt and get the lesson time you want!

Community Concert featuring Mr. Mark Marston and CYM Guitarists- in review!

2011-05-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

Benjamin Solomon performs Calliope by Sagreras

Claire Jacob performs a movement from a Vivaldi concerto

David Weale reviews Pachelbel's Canon in D before performing with Mr. Mark Marston

Ms. Ingrid Beute shares her talents at the piano


Mr. Mark and the Guitar Group perform student composed Twinkle Variations and the Twinkle Blues.

CYM's Solo Recital in Review

2011-04-28T14:44:00.000-07:00

...just a sample of the great performers at last Saturday's recital. Find more pictures on CYM's Facebook page!

Twinkler Parents, we need your RSVP!

2011-04-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

Meetings for parents of Twinkler students who will be moving to either the Classical or American Legends programs in the Fall of 2011. Questions will be answered regarding differences between the programs, starting an instrument, and the parent role in music study. Other questions are welcome as well.

Twinkler Parent Meetings are being held:

CYM Wexford- Tuesday, April 26th at 7:00pm

CYM Sewickley- Wednesday, May 4th 6:30pm

Please RSVP immediately to Leah Givelber at lgivelber@youngmusicians.org or 724-935-0505.

Congratulations, Julia Solomon! ...with updates!

2011-04-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Julia at her Book Four Graduation Recital

Congratulations to Julia Solomon, who graduates Suzuki Cello Book Five! Julia's Graduation Recital will be held on Thursday, April 28th, at 4:45 p.m. during the Young Artists cello group class. The recital is open to family and friends.

Julia and Ms. Rowena Gutana are all smiles as Julia receives her Book 5 graduation certificate!


Julia, Ms. Ingrid Beute, and Ms. Rowena Gutana after the successful recital!

These wonderful photos were submitted by Ed and Ginger Solomon. Ms. Ingrid Beute provided a delightful accompaniment to Julia's performance. What a great evening- thank you to all in attendance, and congratulations to Julia, Ms. Rowena, and Ms. Ingrid for their fine efforts!

Spring Has Sprung at CYM! Looking ahead to an exciting concert season...

2011-04-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Events:

Studio Music at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh

Saturday, May 7 11:00am
Art Studio at CMP
Featuring Grant Goetze, violin

CYM Community Concert

Saturday, May 14, 1:00 pm
Wexford Presbyterian Church
Mr. Mark Marston, lead faculty

CYM Community Concert

Saturday, June 4, 4:00 pm
Wexford Presbyterian Church
Ms. Rowena Gutana, lead faculty

CYM Community Concert

Friday in June, Date and Time TBA
Wexford Presbyterian Church
Ms. Sonia Tripathi, lead faculty

CYM Outreach Concert- A pre-concert performance for Music Plus Recital Series

Sunday, May 1
St. James Church, Sewickley
Ms. Sonia Tripathi, lead faculty
Piano students are invited to perform upon approval from their teacher

See you there!

Saturday Classes Invited to Explore Instruments at CYM's Solo Recital

2011-04-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

The above photos are from last year's Solo Recital.

CYM’s annual all school solo recital day is on Saturday, April 23. All recitals are held in the Marshall Middle School auditorium. The piano recital is at 11 am, the violin at 1 pm, and the cello and guitar recital at 3 pm.

There will be no Saturday classes held that day to allow all students to take advantage of the wonderful opportunity to see music education in action. Please call CYM or send an email to reschedule. The recital is a chance for parents to not only see and hear the different instruments but also to see what their children will be doing in just a few months or years.

For all parents and students in the Twinkler Transtion this is an opportunity for your child to get to see all the instruments and decide which instrument calls to them. All children are welcome at the recital for as long they can remain quiet, and parents can feel free to quietly slip out during applause when their child has seen and heard as much as he or she can.

Before you take your seat...

2011-04-12T17:19:00.000-07:00

Every Spring we look forward to the upcoming CYM Solo Recital- what an exciting time of year! Already, you can hear the sounds of polished pieces and excitement as each CYM instrumentalist prepares for the moment when they perform their piece on stage in front of their family, friends, and peers.

We hope you are anticipating a wonderful concert as we all are, and will take a few moments to refresh yourself and your family on the best way to go about enjoying this concert experience to the fullest. Here are some tips to get you started... see you next Saturday!

Encouraging young people to use good manners and proper etiquette while attending musical and other performances is often easier said than done. The problem is that most people wait until just minutes before an event or performance to tell their children or students what to do and how to act. To teach a child proper manners requires a little bit more advanced planning.

Displaying Proper Concert Etiquette and Good Manners Begins With Respect

Being a musician requires practice. Being a great musician requires LOTS of practice. As adults we recognize the fact that good manners dictate that we respect the hard work and time that a performer has put in to prepare the performance we are watching. For younger students this intrinsic respect for the performer may not make as much sense. Try bringing the discussion down to their level and draw parallels to something that is important in their own lives.

Make Manners Mean Something To The Student

How would your children feel if their parents never attended their baseball games? How would they feel if they worked for days on a school project and then the teacher acted as though their hard work did not even matter? In both cases they would probably feel very sad or at least discouraged from continuing to work so hard. Psychologically young students are more aware of what makes someone sad or upset. If you can in some way demonstrate that bad concert etiquette makes the performer feel bad then you can more easily and effectively encourage good behavior and concert manners as the proper way to act at a musical performance. Once they have a point of reference a child is more likely to accept the change in behavior that you are trying to instill.

The whole idea of showing respect for a person by using good manners and proper concert etiquette is to build a sense of common courtesy that is important both in and out of the concert hall. Since good manners are so important in all areas of life it makes sense to try to get other teachers involved in teaching them as well. Most schools do an excellent job of encouraging good manners in the lower grades, but as students grow older the reinforcement of good manners and concert etiquette in the classroom takes a back seat to academic issues. Speak with other teachers and see if they can work with you to encourage the good and ignore the bad.

Teaching Concert Etiquette Should Be A Continuous Process

Don't wait until the day before your children are to go to see a concert to try to teach them proper concert etiquette. At that point it is often too late to have any real impact. Threatening a child with a negative consequence for bad manners only serves to make the child dislike the activity they are watching. Encouraging good manners and discouraging bad ones is something that takes time and constant reiteration. Above all, as with many things in education, praise your children publicly when they display the hallmarks of proper concert etiquette and manners.

-by Chad Criswell

*For very small children, a quiet activity such as coloring or a special quiet toy or book can also be helpful for a longer performance. Even attending a small portion of a concert is beneficial for youngsters. For CYM’s concert etiquette guidelines, please refer to the CYM guide.

CYM Solo Recital

Marshall Middle School

April 23rd

Piano 11:00am

Violin 1:00pm

Cello and Guitar 3:00pm

Family and friends are invited to attend! See you there!

CYM Violinist and Cellist Share their Experiences with PYSO

2011-04-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

Elsa Lagerquist

Sergei Adelman

Recently we had the chance to sit down with violinist Elsa Lagerquist and cellist Sergei Adelman to talk with them about their experiences performing in the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra. Elsa, 14 and Sergei, 17, have both participated this year in the PYSO, and gave us their insights about being members of this exciting group...

CYM: What made you audition for the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony?

Elsa: After four years of performing in a symphonette, and hearing that PYSO was going to Italy this summer, I decided to audition.

Sergei: My teachers suggested that I audition.

CYM: How did you prepare for your audition?

Elsa: I practiced a lot with Ms. Tanya to get ready for the audition to join, but also before the seating auditions at the beginning of the year (for placement within the orchestra). Thank you, Ms. Tanya!

Sergei: I practiced a lot for the audition- probably at hour-and-a-half sessions.

CYM: How much do you practice your orchestra music now?

Elsa: We mostly practice when we meet with the group- we go over tougher sections in lessons, too.

Sergei: I practice November-May, during the time PYSO meets.

CYM: What has been the biggest surprise about playing in a large orchestra?

Elsa: It is so much fun! Concerts are really fun and exciting, and it is great making new friends.

Sergei: Other members of PYSO are very good players- you have to show up and know what you are doing.

CYM: What is your favorite part about being a member of PYSO? Any favorite pieces?

Elsa: My favorite part so far has been the November concert, and I really like all of the pieces we are playing. I especially liked the William Tell Overture, Roman Carnival, and the fourth movement of the Symphonie Fantastique.

Sergei: I've made friends with the players in my section. We support each other and help each other out when we make mistakes. I like all of the pieces we are working on.

CYM: What are you looking forward to now?

Elsa: I am really excited to travel to Italy- it will be an amazing experience!

Sergei: I'm looking forward to the May concert and trip to Italy- outside of PYSO, I'm looking forward to summer music camps.

CYM: Do you have any advice for other students interested in auditioning for PYSO?

Elsa: Know that if you put in the work, you will do a good job. Don't be nervous!

Sergei: Prepare yourself and practice for your audition.

Thank you, Elsa, and Sergei, for sharing with us- what a wonderful experience.
Best of luck to the both of you in your upcoming concerts, and travels to Italy!

Be sure to mark your calendar to see the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra perform:

May 1, 2011 at 2:00 PM at Heinz Hall
Dvorak - New World Symphony
Barber - School for Scandal Overture
Elgar - Cello Concerto - excerpts (Eleanor Lee, soloist)
Order Tickets for May 1, 2011

Manav Kathir Graduates Suzuki Book One

2011-04-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

Manav Kathir with his fellow guitar group class

Manav and Mr. Mark Marston

Congratulations to Manav Kathir as he graduates from Suzuki Guitar Book One! Manav celebrated his completion of Book One with a recital held this Thursday evening at CYM Wexford. Thank you to all who attended. Bravo, Manav!

CYM Strings to Perform National Anthem at Pirates vs. Astros

2011-04-04T12:18:00.000-07:00


CYM Strings perform during the 2009 Pirates baseball season

Mark your calendar for Wednesday evening, July 6th, as CYM Strings perform the National Anthem in the opening ceremonies of the Pirates vs. Astros game. Bring the whole family to enjoy the sights and sounds of Pirates baseball at PNC Park as well as cheer on your fellow young musicians.

CYM cellists and violinists of every age and skill level are invited to perform. Please contact us at info@youngmusicians.org by June 1st if your child is interested in participating.

CYM performers, students, family, and friends may take advantage of discounted tickets in the Pittsburgh Baseball Club (sections 208-227), Infield Box (sections 109-124) and Infield Grandstands (308-325). Pick up a ticket order form (available in the information bins in Wexford and Sewickley) or call Tom Karayusuf at 412-325-4774 or email tom.karayusuf@pirates.com. Please note that performers and their families must purchase tickets to participate.

Play Ball!

Spring Community Concert this Friday Evening!

2011-03-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Violin Duo at the Children's Museum

2011-03-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

Lovely ladies Alexandra Schnatterly and Julia Freeman perform for the guests of the Pittsburgh Children's Museum this past Saturday morning as a part of Studio Music featuring the Center for Young Musicians. Great job, girls!

Congratulations, February Practice Challenge Winners

2011-03-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

Great job to all of our February Practice Challenge winners:

Anna Genter
Isabelle Genter
Carson Jacob
Raka Sarkar
Oleg Hartman
Abigail Hartman
Ava Heinricher
Benardo Vieira
Josephine Reiter
Nicholas Vieira
Anna Straka
Isabel Straka
Nicholas Straka
Isabel Graham
Reka Gotz
Gabriel Gotz
Isaac McKinley
Natalie Williams
Grant McCargo
Fife McCargo
Lucille McCargo
Anthony McCann
Hafsah Shahzad
Mary Grace Gordon
Abby Ondos
Alex Ondos
Kazumasa Tobita
Bob Carey
Ben Thomas
Elliott Drake
Colin Helbling
Annie Comerci

Keep up the good work!

First Annual Hullabaloo is a Big Hit!

2011-03-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

Claire and Abigail Hartman kick off the concert with a fun hoedown!

Meredith Hudock and Haley Raphael surprise the audience with a dance segment while fiddling!

Brother Oleg Hartman joins his mother and sister on piano.

Ben gives the signal to start as Kim, Chris, and Matthew Capozzi accompany him with kitchen instruments!

American Legends guitarists Bruce David, Jack Semke and Meghan Pohl showcased two folk tunes.

Josephine and Burkhardt Reiter have a squeaky "mousie" soloing in their duet.

Melanie and Julian Drake team up on guitar and lap guitar.

The Villwock trio performs a folk song.


The Ward family collaborate on guiro, violin, and piano.

Congratulations to to all of the families who performed at our first annual Hullabaloo this past Saturday afternoon! The rainy afternoon didn't dampen the spirits of our bunch- we were treated to a variety of creative performances from the culinary collaboration with the Capozzi family to Meredith Hudock and Haley Raphael's fiddling frolic!

Excellent job, everyone- we can't wait for Hullabaloo number two!