Noteworthy

The latest news from Meyer Music and interesting stories from around the Kansas City band and orchestra scene.

Practice and Preparation are Keys to Success in School Music Contests

When we think of school bands and orchestras, we might associate them with sporting events or concerts, but spring is the time when band and orchestra students prepare for spring competitions. Contests for concert bands, ensembles and solo performers fill the spring semester’s music calendar, which for many young musicians reaches its crescendo with a state music festival in April. Some high notes from school band directors Matt Bradford, band director at DeSoto High School in DeSoto, Kansas, tells us, “Contests give band members many opportunities to perform. We emphasize playing in small ensembles because it helps students prepare. Practice...

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The Joy of Gifting a Piano for the Holidays: An Everlasting Melody

As the holiday season approaches, many of us embark on a quest to find that perfect gift, one that brings joy and lasting memories. Amidst the myriad of options, a piano stands out as an extraordinary choice. The gift of a piano not only fills a home with beautiful music but also opens a world of creativity, self-expression, and personal growth. Explore the impact it can have on the lives of those who receive it. A Gateway to Musical Expression Imagine the delight on the face of a loved one as they unwrap the gift of a piano. This magnificent...

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How Music Engages Both Sides of the Brain and Benefits Children

Music has long been recognized as a powerful art form that transcends boundaries and touches our souls. It is not only a source of entertainment but also a remarkable tool for cognitive development. One fascinating aspect of music is its ability to engage both sides of the brain simultaneously, leading to numerous benefits for children. Did you know that music activates and harmonizes the left and right hemispheres of the brain? That’s why it can be beneficial to start your child in private music lessons. Did you know that music bridges both the left and right side of the brain?...

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Music Lessons Foster Self-Esteem in Children and Adolescents

When the giggles and carefree joys of early childhood give way to the stress and peer pressures of the preteen and adolescent years, it’s important to encourage young people to believe in themselves and keep trying new things. Children and adolescents face various challenges to their self-esteem, and learning to play a musical instrument can be an avenue to positive self-awareness. The journey of mastering an instrument not only cultivates a love for music but also instills a sense of accomplishment, resilience and confidence in a young person. Learning to play a musical instrument requires dedication, practice and perseverance. A...

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Choosing the Right Musical Instrument for Your Child

Children benefit in many ways from learning to play a musical instrument. But which instrument is the right one for your child? The choices range from piccolo to piano, trumpet to tuba, and baritone saxophone to bass guitar.  Children are unique, and the right choice for your child may not be the instrument their best friend plays. This is an important decision you don’t want to make more than once. Get it right the first time, so your child doesn’t ask to stop learning one instrument and start over with another. If your kid shows interest in learning to play...

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The Missouri American String Teachers Association Honors Meyer Music with the Distinguished Service Award

The Missouri American String Teachers Association (MoASTA) awarded Meyer Music the Distinguished Service Award on January 26, 2023 at the 85th Annual Missouri Music Educator Association (MMEA) Conference at the Tan-Tar-A Conference Center in Osage Beach. The Distinguished Service Award ¬is presented to those who have made outstanding contributions to the cause of string education in Missouri. This award may include retail music dealers, instrument repair persons, school administrators or supervisors, state music administrators, public school and college officials, composers, orchestra conductors, active or inactive music educators and others whose support of string education has been exemplary. Tom Meyer and...

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Tips for Balancing Schoolwork and Music Lessons for Busy Families

As a parent, you want your child to have a well-rounded education and opportunities to pursue their interests and passions. For many students, participating in the band or orchestra plays an important role in their lives. That means, in addition to school performances and practicing at home, they also take private music lessons. For busy families, this can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you manage schoolwork and music lessons effectively. Make a Schedule That Includes Time for Both Schoolwork and Music Lessons It’s important to consider your child’s passion for music and see it as a...

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Piano Rentals in Kansas City Made Easy

Your child has asked you for a piano. Not the keyboard they’ve been playing with for the past few months—but a real piano. While your head may be spinning, the fact your child is interested in learning the piano is a marvelous thing. There are so many benefits to learning how to play the piano such as higher self-esteem, better focus and concentration, heightened memory and dexterity—even an increase in test scores. Pianos vs. a Keyboard While a keyboard may seem financially prudent, there’s truth in the need for a budding pianist to get a feel for the real thing....

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The Benefits of Piano Lessons Make Them the Perfect Fit for Just About Any Child

Maybe it was the touch of the keys on the baby grand piano in a hotel lobby, stumbling upon Jacob’s Melodies on YouTube, or your budding musician has started to air play the keys to Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer.” Whatever the moment was, you’ve realized piano lessons might be a great fit for your child. Not only will your child satisfy a natural curiosity for playing the piano, but also the experience of learning to play has many other benefits. Improved Coordination Playing piano teaches rhythm and increases hand-eye coordination and hand-foot coordination. It requires using of both hands and...

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Reasons to Consider Playing the Flute

Are you new to music? A seasoned veteran? Looking for guidance on what instrument you should play? Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a beginner, choosing the right instrument for you is important. You should consider sound, the type of music you like to listen to as well as how the instrument can fit into your practice habits. If you are looking for a small, versatile instrument that is easy to take anywhere, the flute may be a good choice for you! The flute is one of the most versatile instruments The flute is small and easy to carry....

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