Piano teacher Erin Hopkins is seen with student Iya Van Gurp during the annual music recital featuring students from Creative Note Music Studio. The event was held on May 25 at Christ Church United in Chesterville. Courtesy Photo

CHESTERVILLE – Music is an intrinsic part of life for many people, and ranges from listening to a piece of music or playing an instrument.  Creative Note Music Studio, located in Chesterville, provides people with an opportunity to participate in one of the basic aspects of human existence.

Owned and operated by Erin Hopkins, students are provided with the opportunity to develop their musical talents. Initially called Mill Street Music Academy, the business began in 2021 and two years ago was rebranded to its present name which Hopkins says captures “the heart of what I do – foster creativity a lifelong love of music.”

As a small studio owner, she is able to provide an individualistic approach to teaching music, tailoring lessons to the interests, goals and learning style of the student. “I get to witness first-hand how music helps students grown not just as musicians, but as creative, confident individuals.”

Her approach to music instruction is holistic in nature, explaining students “explore all aspects of musicianship including composition, improvisation, theory, history, rhythm, ensemble playing, performance, and even studio-wide projects that tie everything together across the year. The goal is to build not just technical skills, but also creativity, confidence, and a deep connection to music.”

Hopkins mentioned this year the focus was on music composition, with students composing an original piece through “guided lessons and workshops” which was collected and printed into a “Student Composition Anthology.”

Noting how “studio-wide projects are one of the ways students create a deeper connection of music”, Hopkins mentioned a partnership with Chesterville’s Railroad Recording Company. Hopkins got in touch with studio owner Dave Tettmar asking for an opportunity for students to visit and tour the studio. While there, students were able to have an opportunity to “professionally record one of their pieces. It was such a fun and memorable day – they loved it!”

Music has always been an important part of her life having received private music lessons at a young age. She had always wanted to be a teacher so becoming a music teacher “has always felt like a natural fit.” She received a Bachelor of Music as well as a Bachelor of Education so was able to share with her students the love of music which is an important part of her life.

When asked about the importance of musical education, Hopkins explained music lessons extend beyond the instruction on playing an instrument such as a piano. It builds “discipline, focus, creativity and emotional awareness”. Also developed by studying music are motor skills and cognitive development while providing a way to express their feelings while discovering the joy associated with music.

Music education provides students with the opportunity to connect with other members of the community while increasing its cultural component and building a sense of belonging. Hopkins mentioned how “This fall, I’m excited to launch a free community choir in partnership with the Christ Church United Choir, welcoming anyone who loves to make music.

Noting how the constraints of time and space are challenges she has faced over the years, she commented “I am in the process of securing a space to begin setting up new programs for the Fall, where I can teach group lessons.” This will allow her to reach more students, noting how group lessons are valuable as they “naturally foster collaboration, build confidence, and create a fun, supportive environment.”

Professional development over the summer is being planned along with developing the engagine group lessons she plans to add in the Fall in addition to her current programs.  These included a piano Foundations group class, a small group collaborative Keys class designed to develop further already acquired musical skills, Piano Pairs and The Piano Lab.  She is looking forward to leading the development of a community choir in the fall. Hopkins mentioned how “the piano also serves as an excellent launch pad for those who may want to explore other instruments down the road” as well as developing skills such as reading music and understanding harmony.

More information on Creative Note Music Studio can be found on Facebook and Instagram as well as by email at creativenotemusicstudio@gmail.com or website located at www.creativenotemusicstudio.mymusicstaff.com. Registration for the music programs is set to open by June 12.

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