The Cupertino Courier

Photograph by George Sakkestad

Aubrey Dolera, 6, looks to music teacher Amelia Laederich during a piano lesson at the Music School's new Cupertino location.

Music School opens in Cupertino

By Dwana Bain

The Music School, a Sunnyvale institution for nearly 20 years, has grown so popular it has expanded its program and added a school in Cupertino.

The new site is in Montgomery Hall at Cupertino's Union Church.

Children as young as 2 years old can enroll in classes.

"Even the little ones are ready to learn. It's amazing," owner Doris Harry said.

The school, which opened when Proposition 13 cuts led to canceled music programs in Sunnyvale schools, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. It began with 13 students in 1977. Now there are more than 600.

"Music is a way to reach the soul," Harry said. "We don't want to be the only alternative for music in town. We're supposed to be a supplement. But the kids can't get music any other way."

Children ages 2 to 3 can learn singing, rhythmic movement, musical games and stories in the "Musical Treats" program.

In the "Pathways" program, children ages 4 to 6 can learn beginning note-reading and keyboards.

Older children (ages 6 and up) can "major" in piano, violin or recorder. The school also offers private lessons for most instruments, including voice.

Doris and husband Tom plan to one day duplicate the entire curriculum--as it has been developed for Sunnyvale--and transplant it in the Cupertino location. The variety and size of classes offered will depend on demand.

The Harrys have made the school a family business. Tony will direct the new location. Daughter Jill Denney, a music school alumni, will also teach.

"We never turn a kid down because he can't afford to go here," Harry said. "We will find a sponsor for that child."

The Music School is a nonprofit organization. For more information, contact Tony Harry at 255-1303.

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