"Carol of the Bells" is one of the most iconic holiday songs, instantly recognizable by its haunting, bell-like melody and hypnotic rhythm. Originally a Ukrainian folk chant called Shchedryk, the melody was composed by Mykola Leontovych in 1914. This piece was a New Year’s carol celebrating the arrival of spring, with lyrics that spoke of a swallow coming to announce wealth and good fortune. The song made its way to America in the early 1920s, where Peter J. Wilhousky, a Ukrainian-American choral director, adapted it with new English lyrics and titled it Carol of the Bells. Wilhousky’s lyrics transformed it into a Christmas song, emphasizing the sound of ringing bells and adding festive cheer.

A sensory-safe room is a space designed to provide a calming, controlled environment for individuals who may be sensitive to sensory stimuli, such as bright lights, loud sounds, or chaotic environments. These rooms are often used to help individuals with sensory processing challenges, including those with autism, ADHD, or anxiety, to feel more comfortable and reduce overstimulation. The goal is to create a soothing space where people can regulate their senses, feel secure, and focus on tasks without being overwhelmed by external stimuli.

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, and music plays a big role in setting the mood. From eerie movie soundtracks to playful, haunted melodies, Halloween music comes in many genres and styles. Whether you're looking for instrumental pieces, classical music, or popular songs to add to a Halloween playlist, there’s something for everyone—from kids and families to those who love a good scare!

Participation in music ensembles such as bands, orchestras, jazz bands, choirs, and various other groupings offers immense benefits and joy to children and youth in school. These ensembles provide a unique platform for students to express themselves, develop their musical skills, and foster personal growth. 

Music education provides significant social benefits to primary and secondary students, fostering joy, fun, and a sense of community. Engaging in music, whether through singing, playing an instrument, or participating in ensembles, allows students to experience the pure joy of creating and sharing music. This joy translates into fun, making learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Music lessons and group performances provide a break from traditional academic subjects, offering a creative outlet that balances the rigor of other school activities. This balance is crucial in maintaining students' overall enthusiasm for school and learning.

Music education significantly enhances students' chances of gaining admission to prestigious universities. This involvement showcases a variety of attributes and achievements that are highly valued by college admissions officers.

Learning drums and percussion is a dynamic and exhilarating journey that offers a wealth of benefits and rewards. From developing rhythmic prowess to fostering creativity and self-expression, the study of drums and percussion is an enriching experience with countless opportunities for growth and exploration.

String instruments, including the violin, viola, and cello, each possess their own unique characteristics and charm. While they share similarities in construction and technique, they also boast distinct qualities that make them fascinating instruments to learn and master.

The Laguna Niguel School of Music, Dennis Frayne Music Studios, now teach almost 100 students! We still have open lesson slots, and our goal is to enroll new students in all our available open spots this Spring, Summer, and Fall!

As the end of the school year approaches, we often get asked these questions:

Q. How do lessons work in the summer?

A. All the Dennis Frayne Music Studios are open year-round, and we do not close during the summer.

Musical theater is a captivating art form that combines acting, singing, and dancing to create a vibrant and engaging experience for both performers and audiences. While it may seem like mere entertainment, children who participate in musical theater reap a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond the stage. From self-expression to cognitive development, let's explore the various advantages that come with children immersing themselves in the world of musical theater.

As many of you know, for beginner and intermediate piano students, we use our own proprietary piano method, Presto! It’s Piano Magic, that Dr. Dennis has created and tested over many years of teaching, that gets students playing and advancing quickly, with both hands from the first lesson, and singing while playing. Most teachers say it cannot be done, but it can, and we help students do it every day! The Presto! It’s Piano Magic method is supported by curriculum, books and materials, sheet music, teaching aids, supplemental and reinforcing video tutorials, and fun backing tracks.

As parents, nurturing our children's growth involves exploring activities that enrich their development. Piano lessons stand as an exceptional avenue for holistic growth, offering a myriad of benefits that extend beyond mere musical skill.