President’s Message – November 2016

Congratulations to all of our new students for making it through the first two months of the school year.  I hope everyone has had a chance to familiarize themselves with opportunities like Jam Nights, Keyfest Labs, Sign-up Recitals, and also to meet your Education Counsellor.  If not, please look for links below in this newsletter that will help you to do just that. November brings one of the most interesting and exciting moments for me as a music educator: it’s the very first time that our 4 and 5 year old students will perform their first ever musical composition.  Any parent will remember the time that their child writes their first story, or makes up their first fairytale…it’s a landmark moment in their child’s brain development. And in music education, creating their first composition is a key milestone. Witnessing a child absorbing the language of music by composing their first piece is proof that what we do here is not only worthwhile, but fundamentally different than any other music school. To me, it’s magical. November also marks the halfway point in the development of a project that I’ve been doing my very best to keep secret. In September of this year, a renowned software developer Anders Jeppsson was contracted to work directly with our leadership team to create a piece of software that has the potential to substantially accelerate the learning of certain foundational musical skills for our younger learners.  This software is set for initial testing and release in early 2017, and continues Merriam’s tradition of innovation and utilizing leading edge technology to enhance and quicken a student’s musical progression. Watch for more updates on this exciting initiative. Of course, at this time of year we also start to ramp up into the holiday celebration season, which brings with it a host of festive recitals, concerts, decorations, and moments of community. November also has a number of important administrative deadlines which you’ll want to pay attention to below, such as the deadline for February exam sign-up, as well as our annual music festival applications for next year.  Review the whole newsletter carefully to ensure that you don’t miss any critical deadlines. And one last essential point – at Merriam, you’re never alone. If you’re having a challenge getting your kids to practice, if you have questions about your child’s progress, wondering about Keyfest vs. RCM exams, our methodology, the right personality fit with your child, or any other question or concern, we have the largest team of dedicated specialists to help you with anything you need to make this journey as successful as possible. Just get to know your teacher and your Education Counsellor, both of whom can be invaluable assets along the way to keep the motivation high. And remember, getting through the first year is almost always the most challenging, so use the vast resources at your fingertips; all part of your membership here at Merriam. We’re grateful you’ve put your trust in us, and as we […]

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