February 2024 Newsletter

In This Month’s Newsletter

• Presto! It's Piano Magic

• Important Dates

• Upcoming Recitals and Forums

• Welcome Our New Students

• Student of the Month

• Spotlight on The Timeless Elegance of Carrie Jacobs Bond: Unveiling the Magic Behind "I Love You Truly"

• Days and Deeds of Dr. Dennis

• Interested in unschooling?

• Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?

• Referral Program

Presto! It’s Piano Magic

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.

Our piano method book series, Presto! It’s Piano Magic, is a powerful, inclusive, holistic approach to teaching piano to beginning students of all ages. It meets students where they are, and gently takes them on a musical journey that feels at one and the same time effortless, challenging, and rewarding. Here are some more benefits:

• Introduces superior sequencing of lessons, scaffolding of instruction, and useful strategies for teaching all types of learners. The music choices are familiar and fun to play, up and down the piano keyboard, right from the very start.

• Furthers the development of technical facility while learning to read music. Efforts to learn to read music will not hinder a student’s ability to play music on the piano. Students are making swifter progress and learning more material than other methods, some of which actually set students back.

• Includes lessons, technique, theory and musicianship, practice worksheets, and performance repertoire, all in one book. We also supplement the books to meet students’ unique needs, desires, and special interests.

• Embarks upon ear training, sight singing (including solfege and Kodály approaches), and rhythmic understanding, and opens the door early for student development in transposing, improvising, and composing music.

• For teachers seeking materials that promote greater social justice and equity, this method series subtly strives to be more culturally authentic and diverse, to express fewer racial and gender stereotypes, to honor and acknowledge the contributions of more women and ethnic composers and songwriters, and to help all students find historical significance and feel welcome in the world of piano and keyboard music education and performance.

• Songs, repertoire, and other instructional materials are age and gender-neutral and work great for all students. The variety of music represents many cultures and traditions, so all students feel comfortable and appreciated.

And, students can earn a prize from Presto when they complete the books!

Coming soon! Dr. Dennis and Mr. Denny are working together to complete Presto! It’s Guitar Magic, a somewhat revolutionary approach to learning guitar. We hope to complete and introduce Book 1 before summer this year!

IMPORTANT DATES

• Abraham Lincoln’s birthday - February 12 and

• George Washington’s birthday - February 22

• Valentine’s Day - Wednesday, February 14

• President’s Day - February 19

  Upcoming Recitals and Forums

  Recital:

• Valentine's Day Recital Wednesday, February 14

  4:00 pm, 5:15 pm and 6:30pm

  RSVP required

  Foothill Ranch

Please welcome

our NEW Students who enrolled

in December

Richard J.

Sky M.

Helene R.

Student of the Month

Charlie Price

Charlie started taking piano lessons when he was 4 years old, about a year and a half ago. Charlie is almost finished with Book 1 of Presto! It's Piano Magic and is ready and eager to start on Book 2. His favorite thing about playing the piano is learning new songs and figuring out the chords.

Charlie does not play any other instruments right now, but one day he would like to learn to play the violin. Charlie likes spending time with his friends at school, reading chapter books, and solving math problems. He also likes going to Disneyland as often as possible and going on all the fast rides! Plus eating churros! He had fun learning to ski in Utah recently and enjoyed watching the luaus in Hawaii.

Charlie's favorite holiday is Halloween because he loves eating candy. (Plus, he and his dad won our Christmas Recital's candy guessing game and giveaway!)

Spotlight on The Timeless Elegance of Carrie Jacobs Bond: Unveiling the Magic Behind "I Love You Truly"

In the grand symphony of musical history, one name often overlooked is that of Carrie Jacobs Bond—a trailblazing female composer whose compositions still resonate with timeless charm. Among her many musical gems, "I Love You Truly" stands as a testament to her genius, capturing the essence of love with an enduring grace that transcends the ages.

The Composer Behind the Magic

Carrie Jacobs Bond, born in 1862, defied the societal norms of her time to become one of the first female composers to achieve widespread success. Her musical journey began in Chicago, where she honed her skills as a pianist and singer. Yet, it was her gift for composing that set her apart.

Bond's music often echoed the sentiments of love and optimism, providing a refreshing contrast to the more somber tones prevalent in the early 20th century.

"I Love You Truly": A Melodic Love Letter

Among Bond's repertoire, "I Love You Truly" stands out as a quintessential expression of love. Written in 1901, the song exudes a timeless sincerity that continues to captivate hearts today. Its simplicity and emotional depth have made it a popular choice for weddings, capturing the essence of true and enduring love.

Unveiling the Magic in the Lyrics

Bond's lyrics are a lyrical journey through the core of genuine affection. With lines like "In this world of ours, we have our sorrows and woe, but, oh, this parting over is the sweetest woe," she captures the bittersweet beauty of love's trials and triumphs. The words, paired with her enchanting melody, create a harmonious blend that resonates with listeners, making "I Love You Truly" a timeless declaration of love.

The Enduring Appeal

What makes "I Love You Truly" so enduring? Perhaps it's the simplicity of its message or the purity of Bond's composition. The song's emotional resonance has allowed it to transcend its era, finding a place in the hearts of generations. Its melody has been embraced by artists across genres, from classical to contemporary, proving the universality of its sentiment.

Carrie Jacobs Bond

Bond's Legacy and Recognition

Carrie Jacobs Bond's contributions to music have not gone unnoticed. In 1910, she became the first woman to sell one million copies of a song, a remarkable feat at a time when female composers faced significant challenges in the male-dominated music industry. Her impact on the world of music endures, with "I Love You Truly" remaining a jewel in the crown of American compositions.

Celebrating "I Love You Truly" Today

As we explore the treasure trove of musical history, it's essential to celebrate the enduring magic of composers like Carrie Jacobs Bond. "I Love You Truly" serves as a melodic reminder of the power of love and the timeless beauty that music can encapsulate. So, whether you're planning a wedding, seeking a heartfelt serenade, or simply want to revel in the enchantment of love, let Bond's "I Love You Truly" be your musical companion. After all, true love, like timeless music, only gets sweeter with time.

Days & Deeds of Dr. Dennis

Ladera Ranch is a beautiful, master-planned community. Ladera Ranch is not its own city, but is a part of the city of Mission Viejo. I’ve taken my kids to several concerts in the park at Founders Park, and I stop in at the Starbucks Coffee on Antonio and Crown Valley all the time! I’ve spent many hours working there, sometimes while my wife, Grace Byeon, sang and cantored masses and other church, wedding, and funeral services at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. I have played the piano at that church as an accompanist from time to time. One of my important piano teachers, Michael Bartel, lived in Ladera Ranch for many years, and since has moved to Rancho Mission Viejo. He and his friends are now donating a piano to our music school!

Inspirations

“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”

- Proverbs 4:23

“Though February is short, it is filled with lots of love and sweet surprises.”

- Charmaine J. Forde

Interested in unschooling?

Visit the website for more details and RSVP. usasb.org

Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?

February 2024

To encourage everyone to read the Dennis Frayne Music Studio Newsletter, each month we’ll feature a new contest winner or a new contest. Be sure to read your newsletter each month to see if your name has been drawn or you might miss out!

This month’s winner is Elijah Lee

Elijah has won 10 tickets which can be redeemed for prizes at the

Dennis Frayne Music Studio, Laguna Niguel!

To collect your prize tickets just bring this to the office.

Congratulations, Elijah!

Everyone, be sure to read your newsletter each month!