In Barbara’s studio students have the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Certificate of Merit Program administered by the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC).  The Certificate of Merit Program (CM) is designed to start when a student is in second grade and continues through the senior year of high school. Students are prepared to pass leveled evaluations of performance and theory criteria.

Students who participate in the Certificate of Merit program for three out of four years in high school, have the opportunity to earn a Senior Medallion awarded by the State MTAC.  Senior Medallions recognize outstanding achievements in the study of a musical instrument such as piano.  

It is fun for students to share their music.  Barnes and Noble Store offers a yearly opportunity for piano students to play for the public at their location on Lone Tree Way.

Previous student Olivia Mello, majoring in Piano Performance at Chapman University, returned as a featured guest to perform at the annual June Recital. Training in Barbara’s studio prepares students to study music in college, and pursue careers as musicians.

Tim Combs, who studied piano with Barbara for 10 years, was awarded a scholarship for music from the Delta Branch of the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC), and has since earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, and his teaching credential. Tim is now a high school music teacher.

Students are presented in recital twice a year.  The opportunity to perform music live for parents, friends and peers helps students gain confidence through accomplishments on the piano.  Students are prepared for playing with music and by memory, both as soloists and as part of ensembles.  The June recital is an opportunity where students are encouraged to memorize a classical piece of music rounding out their exposure to all aspects of piano playing. Yearly awards are given for goal achievement at the June recital.

With Barbara’s mentorship, Cole and Gabriel Preciado each organized and preformed solo concerts for senior residents of Trilogy at the Vineyards to raise funds for their Eagle Scout Projects at Heritage High and Krey Elementary.

Students have the opportunity to compete in the local Young Artist Competition sponsored by the Delta Branch of the Music Teachers’ Association of California.  Pictured is Cole Preciado who previously won the Division One section of the competition and studied piano with Barbara beginning at age five.

Ensemble playing develops camaraderie, rhythm skills, and the ability to perform music with others.  Students have opportunities to play music with peers who are a similar age and skill level.