How to Be a Great Bandmate
Lakehouse Music Academy’s Director of Education, Dr. Rob Derke, is an award-winning saxophonist and seasoned touring musician. With his rich teaching background, a doctorate of education from Vanderbilt, and decades of experience on international stages, Dr. Rob is bringing his world-class musical expertise to Lakehouse students and staff.
Embrace diversity
Each member will bring a different skill set, perspective, and interest in various genres. This is your chance to learn something new, and who knows, you might like it! If everyone always wanted to play the same song, things would get pretty boring and it would limit your chances to improve as a musician.
Welcome challenges
There is no better feeling than accomplishing something challenging. The better you get, the faster you get better, and the way to do that is to challenge yourself! Sometimes this means making yourself vulnerable, but that's the beauty of a great band - a group of people who support each other's growth and give their bandmates time and space to work on skills that will ultimately contribute to everyone's success.
Trust the process
Bands are social, and as in all social contexts, things can get bumpy. Perhaps a bandmate seems a little aggressive in choosing music - but maybe that's because they're scared to play music that they don't know or are afraid to perform poorly. We all have different ways of coping with new and challenging situations. Be patient with others, trust the leadership of your instructor, and focus on the task at hand - growing as an artist and a band.
Dr. Rob Derke
Director of Education
Teacher Feature: Winston Roye
BASS & Drum Instructor
Tell us a little more about your background! Where are you from?
I was born in New York City, and raised in NYC, New Hampshire and New Jersey. I'm a professional musician, and work with touring and recording bands and artists, and on Broadway in the orchestras of various shows.
What do you like to do when you're not teaching or playing music?
I love pinhole photography, cooking and carpentry.
What are you working on right now?
The never ending challenge of improving my bowing technique! And slowly writing a bass instruction book.
Where/how can we follow you and your music?
I'm on Instagram, @wroye. There's someone use with my same handle, but mine has my picture on it, so that's the way to tell the difference. Or you can got to my website: winstonroye.com That has all sorts of info about me, and my very dreamy photos.
Who/what are your top 3 favorite artists/bands right now?
I'm revisiting all the Soundgarden albums, the various soundtracks of Bernard Herrmann, and country artist Morgan Wade.
What is one piece of advice that has shaped your view of being a musician?
Keep an open mind, and constantly switch channels on the radio so you hear all sorts of music. And expose yourself to all sorts of art in general. Movies, dance, museums, food, books...get out there and sponge up as much culture as possible.
How do you stay motivated and continue to learn and grow as a musician?
I take on new projects that I'm not totally solid with, and just work on them to get better.
Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs coming up?
I'm playing with children's artist Laurie Berkner. I"m doing a musical at the Paper Mill Playhouse in April called, "Gun & Powder". It's a pretty mixed bag, so go to my website or Google my name and a whole bunch of stuff will come up.
If you had to create a soundtrack for your life, what would be the top three songs on it?
Aaron Copland's "Appalachian Spring", Earth Wind & Fire's "After The Love Is Gone", and "Thinking Of You" by A Perfect Circle.
What is your opinion on the evolving landscape of the music industry and its impact on young musicians?
AI and technology will create more music. And that will also mean that more people will yearn for music played by actual humans. Sitting in a room hearing sound coming right from the person playing it, right in front of your eyes, will never go away.
Share your thoughts on the value of music education in a person's life.
You can always learn something. No matter how amazing you are, there's someone that can help you get better at expressing yourself. If you can take lessons from a music teacher, please try to do it.
What's your favorite genre, type of music, or technique to teach?
I specialize in "popular" music. This is in my opinion, everything that is not Indigenous American Classical Music (Jazz) or European Classical Music.I enjoy it because I have a LOT of experience in this very broad range of music that you listen to, and dance to.
If you could bring one famous musician back to life for a jam session, who would it be, and what song would you play together?
I would sure love to play a song with the late Jeff Buckley.
What band/musician/song is a guilty pleasure?
I love ABBA.
How did you become interested in teaching music, and what inspired you to pursue it as a career?
I always wanted to teach bands how to play music, and when Jon, the owner of Lakehouse told me he was doing this, it seemed like the perfect fit.
Beyond your role as a music teacher, what are some of your life goals?
I want to design and build my own house. I want to assemble an amazing mobile recording studio, I want to travel to the South Pole.
How have your personal experiences and background influenced you teaching/music?
I've learned that everybody, no matter what their talent level is, can make a powerful musical moment if they aren't afraid to let their raw emotions come out into the music.
Share a memorable teaching moment where you witnessed a student's breakthrough or transformation.
It actually wasn't one of my students. At the Big Gig, one of the bands on the bill was missing a player who was sick. I saw them, without any help from any teachers, rearrange the order of their set, and the arrangements of some of the songs, to a put on a great show without one band member. Their teacher obviously gave them enough confidence to be a BAND on their own.
What do you find most rewarding about being a music teacher?
Seeing the "Aha" moment on someones face when they hear something that a second ago was a huge insurmountable hurdle, become possible and playable.
How do you view the role of mentorship and personal connections in music instruction?
Mentorship is extremely important. Especially if any students want to pursue music for a living. Doctors and lawyers have people in their practice that help them, and give them advice. Musicians are no different. I've mentored a number of Broadway bass players, and you have to give mentees all the tools to really shine.
How do you balance your personal life with your performing and teaching commitments?
I try to take care of myself. I try to get as much sleep as possible, stretch, and eat well. And I'm SLOWLY building up a roster of students. Slow and steady wins the race!
Share a memorable life experience or adventure that has shaped who you are.
During the pandemic I stopped playing music for about 6 months and focused on carpentry. Right before that, I was doing a Broadway show and I was totally burned out. Stepping away from music made me really appreciate it more when I was ready to get back to it.
In your opinion, what can students gain from learning music that will serve them in life?
Learning music will help with: mathematics, solving problems, working with others, and thinking outside the box. It will lower depression and make you healthier. Later in life it will help you fight memory loss and dementia. And you'll gain self confidence, because you'll know you can stand in front of a crowd and take the reins.
Teacher Feature: Kelli Bruno
Vocal & piano Instructor
Tell us a little more about your background! Where are you from?
I'm originally from Cranford, NJ! I got my BA degrees in Music & Film from Bucknell University in 2013, after which I moved to NYC. I started performing in New York as a solo musician in 2016 while working full-time for the national non profit Musicians On Call (MOC). A few months ago I decided to leave MOC after 9 incredible years so I could pursue performing and teaching more seriously! I now live in South River with my wife Amie and dog Koda :)
What do you like to do when you're not teaching or playing music?
I'm a HUGE New York Rangers fan, so you can catch me watching hockey. I also love reading, rollerblading, hiking, and traveling!
What are you working on right now?
I'm working on two singles that I hope to release in 2024.
Where/how can we follow you and your music?
My website is kellibruno.com and all my social media handles are @kellibrunomusic (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc)
Who/what are your top 3 favorite artists/bands right now?
Carbon Leaf, Larkin Poe, JP Cooper
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting to learn music?
Don't be afraid to stray from convention. Every artist has a unique voice and instinct to create... follow that instinct!
Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs coming up?
I play original shows a few times a year at Crossroads in Garwood. I play cover shows pretty frequently (Wednesday nights) at Onieals in Hoboken!
What's your favorite genre, type of music, or technique to teach?
I love teaching music theory! Whether it's sight-reading, chord progressions, Solfege, or harmony, I love connecting the dots for young musicians and giving them the building blocks to understand why and how music is SO AWESOME!
If you could bring one famous musician back to life for a jam session, who would it be, and what song would you play together?
Ooooo that's tough! Either Ella Fitzgerald (I've Got You Under My Skin) OR Sam Cooke (A Change is Gonna Come)
Share a memorable teaching moment where you witnessed a student's breakthrough or transformation.
A few years ago I had a 5 year old piano student who couldn't play the Itsy Bitsy Spider. One week later she shows up to class and plays it PERFECTLY - and from memory! I was so impressed and I will always remember that moment because she seemed so proud.
Share a memorable life experience or adventure that has shaped who you are.
Through my former staff and volunteer role at Musicians On Call I spent a lot of time performing at the bedsides of hospital patients. I know how incredibly transformative music can be in happy situations, along with challenging situations. I've learned that there is always a way to connect with someone... if it's not through speech, it could be through music. If it's not through music, it could be through Disney movies. If not through Disney, it could be as simple as a smile :)
Teacher Feature: Justin Wright
Drums & Bass Instructor
Tell us a little more about your background! Where are you from?
I’m from Brick, NJ. I like to play video games, go indoor rock-climbing, read comic books, and go to the gym.
What do you like to do when you're not teaching or playing music?
I’m a nerd, I like playing video games and watching superhero movies. I also spend massive amounts of time on YouTube, I love watching recording studio tours and beat breakdowns.
What are you working on right now?
I'm currently working on my band's upcoming second album, as well as my friend's solo record.
Where/how can we follow you and your music?
You can follow my bands on social media @meteor_police and @thedreamofwhen
Who/what are your top 3 favorite artists/bands right now?
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Osees, Queens of the Stone Age
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting to learn music?
Try to focus on your own growth as a musician and not so much on what others are doing around you. Everyone learns at their own pace and you are your own musician. Try to make yourself stand out.
What is your opinion on the evolving landscape of the music industry and its impact on young musicians?
Having a music community is more important than ever because it is becoming more difficult for bands to survive on creating music and playing shows.
What's your favorite genre, type of music, or technique to teach?
I enjoy teaching my students how to play a Samba for the first time because they require plenty of concentration and independence to be performed. Once those skills are learned, other things become easier to play.
What band/musician/song is a guilty pleasure?
"Dragonball Durag" by Thundercat
How did you become interested in teaching music, and what inspired you to pursue it as a career?
Considering that I was once a student myself at Lakehouse for a few years, teaching was naturally the next step for me as I was getting older and wanted to evolve and mature in some way. The opportunity to teach was offered and I decided to give it a try. Here I am, roughly three years later!
How have your personal experiences and background influenced your teaching/music?
Being an active musician in the scene allows me to impart some of my first-hand experiences into my students who are either in a similar position that I was once in or are looking to pursue music as a career.
Share a memorable life experience or adventure that has shaped who you are.
My first recital as a teacher. Spending weeks preparing with your student, and then watching them perform in front of their families something they have been working on is remarkable to see.
What do you find most rewarding about being a music teacher?
The most rewarding thing is the relationship you develop with each student. Everyone you teach is different and you get to see them evolve and get better as you progress together. You become a mentor to them.
Share a memorable life experience or adventure that has shaped who you are.
My first trip to Boston when I was twenty. I went up to Berklee to visit some friends who were attending and I enjoyed the independence of traveling to a new place alone and being able to meet new people who were like-minded and pursuing music as a legitimate career.
How do you view the role of mentorship and personal connections in music instruction?
It’s as important as teaching them a skill. I think it is an important dynamic to have. Music is a common interest for both the instructor and student which makes for a great working environment. For the most part, this is something the student is willingly wanting to learn, so they will want to talk about music and their favorite bands, ask questions, and accomplish difficult goals if it means they will be a better player.
Teacher Feature: Chill Smith
Audio Engineering & Production Instructor
Tell us a little more about your background! Where are you from?
I was born in Paterson NJ, moved to Bayville NJ when I was around 15 years old. Living in urban and suburban neighborhoods privileged me to many perspectives. My first taste of musicianship was around sixteen years old. Ian, a friend of mine in high school invited me to his studio session, which was a makeshift studio in a shed. By my early 20’s I decided I didn’t want to pay for studio time, my father bought me Pro Tools 7, an M-Audio interface and a Shure KSM27.
What do you like to do when you're not teaching or playing music?
I’m a nerd, I like playing video games and watching superhero movies. I also spend massive amounts of time on YouTube, I love watching recording studio tours and beat breakdowns.
What are you working on right now?
I’m in the midst of recording and mixing hip-hop/spoken word artist Chris Rockwell, also in the early stages of producing/beat making for what I’m aiming to be my next album.
Where/how can we follow you and your music?
@yochillsmith (everywhere)
Who/what are your top 3 favorite artists/bands right now?
Nas will forever be my favorite rapper. Drake is one of my favorites right now and I’m anticipating J. Cole’s next album.
What is one piece of advice that has shaped your view of being a musician?
Do things out of passion and love.
How do you stay motivated and continue to learn and grow as a musician?
Motivation to me is a fleeing emotion, I make music to get through life, I aim to grow as a person which coincidentally makes me a better musician.
If you had to create a soundtrack for your life, what would be the top three songs on it?
Nas “I did it my way”
Joe Budden “Black Cloud”
Nirvana “Something in the Way”
Share your thoughts on the value of music education in a person's life.
I went to vocational school for audio engineering in my early 20’s. I’ve made lifetime friendships, shared stages, and toured the country of classmates I’ve had in engineering class. I would be a completely different person without music education, I wouldn’t be writing this newsletter, I wouldn’t have meet Sugar Hill Gang, or Eric B and Rakim, I doubt I would have learned to deal with my emotions in a productive way.
What's your favorite genre, type of music, or technique to teach?
Hip-hop, I love sampling. I never learned how to play an instrument but hip-hop comes from people with limited resources. Rza of Wu-Tang didn’t know how to play an instrument or even keep songs in key, the early Wu-Tang albums aren’t in key at all and the mixes is terrible. I like encouraging people to use the resources they have and not allow anything to get in the way of making music.
If you could bring one famous musician back to life for a jam session, who would it be, and what song would you play together?
Prince, I would’ve like to converse with him, Prince and I were raised Jehovah’s Witness. Dude played all the instruments, I would rather watch him play than jam with him.
What band/musician/song is a guilty pleasure?
Taylor Swift, Ice Spice, and ironically Will Smith, his “Red Alert” album is fire!
How did you become interested in teaching music, and what inspired you to pursue it as a career?
Several years ago I was working a security job, someone I worked with had plans on running a studio, he would ask for advice and I was able to answer his questions. I didn’t realize I knew as much as I did, that experience made me think of teaching. To harken back on vocational school, it was mainly geared toward people who played instruments, there was a lack of respect for Hip-hop, and the teachers didn’t look, act or think like me. Most of what I know is self taught, I know these kids are teaching themselves, I can give them a massive push with information that applies specifically to them.
Beyond your role as a music teacher, what are some of your life goals?
I really would love to destroy the patriarchy that marginalizes people of color, women, transgender people and the disabled. In my older years I plan on pursuing politics. It’s rare to have a teacher who appreciates you as an individual.
Share a memorable life experience or adventure that has shaped who you are.
Stanhope House, Joe Budden was the headliner, some of the openers were very underwhelming, the crowd was getting rowdy and started booing people off stage, out of the 400+ people, about 40 of them were with me, but I remained cool as a cucumber. I asked some of them to chant my name as I made my way to the stage. As I stepped on the stage I not so politely asked a member from the act before me to get off, to that the crowd responded well. As I’m on stage I have a bit of trouble connecting to the backline, the boos slowly start. I perform the first song, crowd was slightly into it, then I rapped an a cappella, it was around the time Sandra Bland was found dead in a jail cell and the police officers responsible to Eric Garners death were acquitted. The audience became silent the entire time I was rapping, I felt like Eminem on 8 Mile. I was the only act besides Joe Budden who didn’t get booed off stage.
In your opinion, what can students gain from learning music that will serve them in life?
I encourage people to learn as many things as possible. Music will always exist, plus learning how to play a guitar or sing makes you look cool, duh.
Spotlight: Wavez Plays Sound Bites
Written by Ori Rosmarin
Not many artists can say they’ve debuted their talent on a stage as legendary as The Stone Pony. Wavez, a band featuring brilliant teenage musicians and a powerhouse lead vocalist, brought an energy to their first performance that would make The Pony alumni proud. The bands’ prerogative is to bring a new, exciting sound to the beaches of the Jersey Shore, developing their own, unique renditions of hit songs.
Infusing popular songs with their own artistic style is exactly what differentiates Wavez from the crowd of Lakehouse bands. When lead vocalist, Mia Ryan, sings Freaking out in the Neighborhood, the audience can barely hear the remnants of what was once Mac Demarco’s song. Throughout those 2 minutes and 54 seconds, it’s Wavez’ song.
“It gets boring listening to the same song over and over,” says Ryan. “When we make it our own, it feels original to us.” Wavez’ bassist, John Novello, agreed, mentioning that “bread and butter covers” aren’t what they came to Lakehouse to produce.
Wavez recently performed at Sound Bites at North Eats on 1607, Ocean Avenue. Despite the absence of a keyboardist, the band managed to cultivate audience members from across the Asbury boardwalk. Although this gig was only their fourth since the band formed in November of 2022, they performed with more stage presence and raw talent than many bands celebrating their late birthdays.
With less than a year since their development, it’s hard to believe Wavez is only in its infancy stage of true musical greatness. As the band grows from their room in 619 Lake Avenue, the musicians hope to explore new genres, book bigger stages, and evolve their sound to further heights.
Make sure to catch Lakehouse bands like Wavez every Friday at South Bites at North Eats until August 25th. The gig at 1607, Ocean Avenue runs from 5 to 7 PM and features three of Lakehouse’s best bands a week.
Why Lakehouse is the Home of Original Music
Let's talk about why songwriting is something that everyone, including you, should get into.
In a world overflowing with cover songs, creating your own music is a transformative journey of self-expression and growth…
Everyone should write original music, even you!
Let's talk about why songwriting is something that everyone, including you, should get into.
Writing originals offers a world of creativity and benefits, including the opportunity to express your creativity and unique experiences, develop your individual artistic identity, and grow personally and professionally. It allows you to connect deeply with listeners, explore new musical territories, and experience the joy and satisfaction of creating something truly original. In a world overflowing with cover songs, creating your own music is a transformative journey of self-expression and growth.
At Lakehouse, we understand the power of originality and invite all students to to explore their creative potential through the Artist Program. This program equips you with essential skills that extend beyond writing music. You'll delve into the intricacies of songwriting, honing your composition and arrangement abilities to bring your creative visions to life. Experienced instructors will help you explore different genres, experiment with musical elements, and discover what truly resonates with you, ultimately defining your unique artistic voice.
Our comprehensive curriculum goes beyond the norm, empowering musicians with personalized instruction in songwriting, composition, arrangement, and production techniques. The program guides original artists in finding their unique artistic voice, allowing them to connect deeply with your audience through authentic and heartfelt compositions.
Collaboration is encouraged within a community of like-minded musicians. Connect with fellow artists, spark new ideas, and embark on exciting musical collaborations. This collaborative spirit fuels creativity, fostering an environment where everyone can grow together and create something extraordinary.
Writing your own music opens doors to professional growth, leaving a lasting artistic legacy while providing a fulfilling outlet for self-expression. Lakehouse has strong ties with industry professionals, providing opportunities for Artist Program students to showcase their original compositions to influential figures. This exposure can lead to recognition, collaborations, and future professional opportunities, making the program a valuable stepping stone for aspiring musicians.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, the journey of writing your own original music is rewarding and fulfilling. Lakehouse Music Academy and their Artist Program provide the perfect environment to unleash your creativity, connect with others through your music, and find your authentic voice. Trust us, it's a journey worth taking. So let your creativity soar, connect with people through your music, and discover your unique voice at Lakehouse Music Academy.
4 Reasons To Try a Music-Based Camp This Summer
We’ve learned over these past few years that there is absolutely nothing ordinary anymore about the way our children learn, play, or make friends. So, there’s no reason not to try something new when planning your child’s summer activities…
We’ve learned over these past few years that there is absolutely nothing ordinary anymore about the way our children learn, play, or make friends. So, there’s no reason not to try something new when planning your child’s summer activities! Music-based camps are one of the best options for summer fun to help your child find an activity that is both creatively liberating and mentally stimulating.
Here are four reasons why your kid should try a music camp this year…
The perfect creative outlet.
Maybe your child is already creatively inclined and needs a fresh space to take their artistic thinking to the next level. Maybe they have struggled to find an activity that allows them to express themselves fully. For either case, music camps are the perfect introduction to a brand new way of making and playing outside of the realm of a school band or regular music class.
Programs that are tailor-made for specific interests, like themed camps, can allow young musicians to deepen their existing passion for a particular instrument or genre, while more general camps can introduce the world of music-making to complete beginners in a safe, judgment-free way.
Confidence and skill-building.
Uncertain times can often create uncertain feelings in a young person, so your child might be in need of a new environment to build their confidence. In a low-pressure, activity-packed camp setting, learning the art of performance often allows each camper to find a new sense of self.
Navigating and perfecting stage presence is also much more possible in a rehearsal setting, as opposed to standing up on the main stage, especially in smaller, more concentrated groups. For young musicians who are more advanced, entering into leadership roles in their group dynamic, and working on new skills can help prepare them for larger music-related goals and events in their lives.
Brain-boosting,
even if they don’t know it.
We would all love for our child to be insatiable for knowledge all year-round, but it’s likely that they’re looking for a break during the summer. Technical and intensive camps help to keep kids’ brains working while working on the physical and conceptual aspects of music-making.
For beginners, building new skills and learning a hobby outside of their norm can be both challenging and stimulating. For young musicians who are more experienced, working on new techniques in a relaxed setting is a perfect way to advance their musical skills and level up their playing. Working in unfamiliar environments like a recording studio or a rehearsal room can also be a great change of pace for those who struggle to learn virtually or in a traditional classroom, and camp can help free kids from the usual distractions of school, home, or their phones.
A fresh sense of community.
Whether virtual learning threw a wrench in your child’s ability to socialize with their peers, or they’re having trouble fitting in, joining a group of like-minded people to collaborate and learn together can be the perfect recipe for lasting friendships. Kids from all different backgrounds and places can join together to learn and create over a shared love of music.
Additionally, if it’s through writing songs, learning new techniques, or playing in synchronicity with one another, teamwork in band and group settings allows campers to connect on a deeper level. The best part? These connections are built face to face in a rehearsal room, rather than through a phone or computer screen.
If you’re looking to expand your child’s existing knowledge and perfect their playing, or if you have a kiddo who could benefit from learning a new skill or hobby, a music-based camp might be the perfect place for them this summer.
Looking for a summer music program but not sure where to start? Lakehouse Music Academy does summer camp differently, all from the music capital of New Jersey, downtown Asbury Park!
Head to our summer camp store today to get more information and sign up today!
Click here to learn more
What to Expect At Your Meet & Greet
So, you’ve set up your Meet & Greet! Congratulations! We are so excited to have you here at Lakehouse Music. This is your chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere of our music community and get a firsthand look at our outstanding facilities…
So, you’ve set up your Meet & Greet! Congratulations! We are so excited to have you here at Lakehouse Music. This is your chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere of our music community and get a firsthand look at our outstanding facilities. We foster a supportive and inclusive community of musicians and artists here. From the moment you walk through our doors, you'll feel the energy and encouragement from fellow students and staff, cultivating an environment that inspires learning and growth.
Throughout your tour, you'll have the chance to meet our exceptional team of teachers and staff members. We take pride in attracting the best in the industry who are passionate about nurturing your musical growth. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to help you succeed. During your visit, we'll bring you along on a guided tour of our state-of-the-art facilities, showcasing all the resources that make Lakehouse a premier destination for musicians and artists like you. Here's what you can expect...
The Academy:
Explore our practice rooms and rehearsal spaces, where various programs take place. Our dedicated and experienced staff, who have exceptional musical credits and industry expertise, will be there to answer your questions.
The Recording Studio:
Step into our world-class recording studio, designed by the renowned studio design group, WSDG. Experience the exceptional acoustic quality that sets our studios apart. You'll also see our Neve console in Studio North and API Console in Studio South, as well as the North and South Live rooms. Our recording studios are equipped with top-of-the-line gear and valuable musical instruments. Our team of skilled engineers and producers will be there to guide you through the recording process.
MOTO Studio & Suite 3D:
Visit our dedicated space for songwriting lessons and our exclusive artist program. Here, you'll have the opportunity to work closely with talented writers and artists, enhancing your skills and exploring your creativity.
We can't wait to welcome you to Lakehouse Music Academy! The Meet & Greet is an excellent opportunity to discover the exciting world of music that awaits you. If you haven’t already, please RSVP to secure your spot, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We look forward to meeting you and helping you embark on your musical journey!
Why Everyone Should Seek Music Education
It is a fact that music plays an essential role in our lives, and it goes beyond mere entertainment. Research has shown that learning music has a profound, transformative impact on brain development, cognitive function, socialization, and …
It is a fact that music plays an essential role in our lives, and it goes beyond mere entertainment. Research has shown that learning music has a profound, transformative impact on brain development, cognitive function, socialization, and academic performance. At Lakehouse Music Academy (LhMA), we provide students of every age with the opportunity to experience the power of music in a comprehensive way that can benefit them for the rest of their lives.
Here are five reasons why everyone should seek music education, regardless of their age…
Cognitive Development
Studies have shown that playing an instrument exercises your brain, improves memory, and sharpens your cognitive abilities. Music education has also been linked to increased academic achievement in math, science, and reading.
Creativity and Self-Expression
Music education fosters creativity and self-expression. It allows individuals to process and communicate emotions through sound, which can be a powerful way to cope with difficult emotions and provide stress relief. In addition to learning existing songs, LhMA students can study original songwriting, recording, production, and engineering, as well as receive business and marketing education from professionals in the industry.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Music education promotes teamwork and collaboration, essential skills for success in music, and many other areas of life. Group rehearsals and live performances provide opportunities for students to develop interpersonal skills, communication, and cooperation. At LhMA, in addition to one-on-one private lessons, students receive the practical experience rehearsing and performing live with their band. This hands-on approach allows students to develop not only their musical abilities but also their teamwork, communication, and leadership skills
Exercise for the Brain and Body
Learning to play an instrument integrates both the left and right hemispheres of the brain, forging new neural pathways. It also requires precise movements and coordination, providing exercise for the hands and body. For many, music becomes a way to process and cope with difficult emotions, as well as a form of stress relief. By providing students with the tools to create and express themselves through music, a music education can help to cultivate a lifelong passion and hobby. Playing an instrument can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. It can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, provide physical and mental stress relief, and boost energy levels.
Social Interaction
Music brings people together, and learning to play an instrument is a great way to expand your social circle. You'll interact with your teacher, connect with fellow students, and meet other like-minded people who share your passion for music.
Music is a vital part of a well-rounded education, and LhMA offers an exceptional program that allows students to develop their musical abilities while gaining valuable skills that can be applied to any career. At Lakehouse Music Academy, students have the opportunity to learn music theory, sharpen their skills for live performances, work on original songwriting, and learn about the music industry. The program is designed to foster comprehensive musicianship for every student, at every level, and at every age. No matter your background or skill level, you can benefit from an education in music.
Why You Should Join a Band Right Away
It is a fact that music plays an essential role in our lives, and it goes beyond mere entertainment. Research has shown that learning music has a profound, transformative impact on brain development, cognitive function, socialization, and academic performance.
Joining a band on your first day of learning an instrument? It sounds impossible, but at Lakehouse Music Academy, we know that anyone who wants to learn an instrument can be part of a band from day one. Don't believe us? Keep reading.
You may have a few thoughts running through your head that are keeping you from giving it a try…
I can’t join a band, I don’t even play an instrument yet!
We get it, it sounds intimidating. You don’t know anything about your instrument yet, let alone how to play a song on it. How could you possibly follow along without embarrassing yourself? Here at Lakehouse, we believe that the longest journey starts with that one first note, not the first step. Do you know that some of the greatest rock songs like “Dreams” or “Start Me Up” only have two notes? Just two! That doesn’t sound so bad, does it?
From day one, we match you with a band where everyone is at the same level. So if you've never played before, the others in your group will be beginners too. This way you don't feel like you're holding anyone back. If you’re a pro or somewhere in between, we curate the groups so that you'll be with someone on the same level.
I’m too nervous, I’ll start with just private lessons and join a band when I’m ready.
Do kids learn how to play baseball by playing by themselves in the backyard?
Is soccer the same game if you kick around the ball by yourself?
What good is an amazing quarterback if there’s no one there to catch the ball?
When you join a band at Lakehouse Music Academy, you'll also get one-on-one private lessons weekly. This combination of private lessons and group rehearsal is the perfect recipe for growth and progress. Plus, there's always a teacher in your band rehearsal who creates a comfortable and healthy learning environment. This package is designed to keep you feeling engaged, motivated, and excited– and that’s what helps even a complete beginner become a player quickly.
Bands are for rock stars, not beginners!
We’ve honed our method of playing in a band to facilitate that wow moment on the first day. That moment when you first hear everyone in the band playing their part all together after the drummer counts “one, two, three, four.” That moment when you feel like you are flying standing still. Do you remember the first time you rode a bike without training wheels? Yes, that feeling, on the first day!
Playing in a band is an amazing experience, there's nothing like it. Being with a group of people who are working together towards a shared goal creates a really cool bond. You’ll get to pick the songs that you want to learn and rehearse together each week for an upcoming performance, whether it’s a local show, the adult Mid-Semester Gig, or the Big Gig.
Here are a few of our success stories from this method. Hopefully, by now, you are imagining yourself in a band. It's equally as exciting as it is intimidating. That feeling never quite goes away but that's why it's fun! Once you get a few Big Gigs under your belt, you’ll be a seasoned member of our Lakehouse bands, and you’ll feel it too. Let's hear a bit from a few people who have gone through the beginner experience and are still going strong to this day…
Band Spotlight: Butterfly Garden
Student Spotlight: The Lawsons
Student Spotlight: Tom Bisset
Buying Your First Instrument: What to Know
At Lakehouse, we understand the importance of finding the perfect instrument that aligns with your musical goals and aspirations, and that’s why we have teamed up with Russo Music….
Whether you've always dreamed of playing guitar, starting a ukulele band with your grandkids, or rediscovering your passion for a different instrument, the process of buying your first instrument can be both exciting and intimidating. At Lakehouse, we understand the importance of finding the perfect instrument that aligns with your musical goals and aspirations, and that’s why we have teamed up with Russo Music, the music store conveniently located on our first floor and the optimal resource for your big purchase.
Here are some essential factors to consider before making your decision:
Reflect on your musical aspirations: Think about where you want your music to take you. Do you dream of playing guitar or starting a ukulele band with your grandkids? Consider instruments that align with your passions and desired musical direction.
Find a good fit: Make sure the instrument fits your body and living space. If it's for a child, consult their music teacher or the music store staff for appropriate sizing. Also, consider storage space if you have limited room. Smaller instruments like the flute or ukulele are more manageable, while larger ones like the upright bass require more space.
Set a budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on an instrument. Remember to consider maintenance, repairs, and replacement parts. Investing in a quality instrument within your budget will enhance your learning experience.
Visit your local music shop: Start your instrument-buying journey at a local music shop like Russo Music. The knowledgeable staff there can guide you, answer questions, and help you make an informed decision. Building a relationship with them will be valuable for future repairs or adjustments.
Try before you buy: Experience the instrument in person at the shop. Feel its weight, balance, and craftsmanship. Test the strings or keys. Listen to the tone and how it resonates with you. Sometimes, the instrument chooses you!
Consider used instruments: Don't overlook used instruments. Locally-owned music stores often have them for sale or on consignment. Older instruments can sometimes surpass newer ones in quality. Explore this option for hidden gems.
Try instrument rentals: Take advantage of instrument rental services offered by music stores. Renting allows you to test an instrument before committing to a purchase. It offers flexibility and peace of mind.
Buying your first instrument is an exciting journey. By considering these factors and relying on the expertise of your local music shop, you'll find the perfect instrument that resonates with you. So, embrace your musical dreams and let the Lakehouse and Russo Music teams be your guides on this melodic adventure!
Learn more at russomusic.com.