December 2024 Newsletter
Read the latest update from Directors Jose Quesada and Won Yong Lee:
As we kick off a new month, we're excited to share some great updates and achievements that set the stage for a month filled with music, learning, and growth.
Did Santa get YOU an instrument for Christmas?
If you got a guitar, drum set, violin, keyboard, piano, or you're just finally ready to start singing on the stage instead of the shower, we're ready to start you on your journey.
AND we want to give you $63 (first lesson and registration free if you mention this email and register before 12/31/24) to help you get started.
IMPORTANT: This is one of our busiest times of the year. So many people get instruments and now they're calling to book the best time slots. Our time slots are first come first serve. To ensure YOU get the best time slot for your lesson be sure to get your lessons set up today. Take the next step with 3 very easy options (and you don't even have to leave the house!):
Sign up online now: https://www.benbrookmusicacademy.com/register
Text or call us: 817-767-3373 and we can assist by phone.
Reply to this email or email us at info@benbrookmusicacademy.com
Let's make MUSIC!
• Valid for new students enrolling 12/26/24–12/31/24 or current students upgrading for extra lessons.
• Cannot be combined with any other offer.
• Not valid or credits or refunds.
Your Guide to Recital Success
Recitals are a wonderful opportunity to showcase the hard work and progress made during lessons. At Benbrook Music Academy, we’re committed to ensuring that every student feels prepared, confident, and excited to perform. Here’s your ultimate guide to achieving recital success!
1. Practice Makes Progress
Preparation is key to a successful recital. Here are some tips to make the most of your practice sessions:
- Consistent Practice: Dedicate a specific time each day to practice. Even 15-20 focused minutes daily can make a big difference.
- Use Tools: Incorporate tools like metronomes and backing tracks to refine timing and tempo.
- Perform at Home: Practice playing your piece in front of family or friends to get comfortable performing for an audience.
- Break It Down: Focus on challenging sections first and gradually piece the performance together.
2. Dress for Success
Your appearance can boost confidence and set the tone for your performance.
- Comfortable and Neat: Choose attire that is both comfortable and recital-appropriate. Avoid overly flashy accessories that may distract from your performance.
- Footwear Matters: If you’re playing piano, wear shoes that allow precise pedal control.
3. Tame the Nerves
It’s natural to feel nervous before a performance. Try these tips to stay calm:
- Breathe Deeply: Practice deep breathing exercises to steady your nerves.
- Visualize Success: Picture yourself performing confidently and enjoying the moment.
- Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with affirmations like, “I am ready,” or, “I can do this.”
4. Stage Presence Matters
Engage your audience and make your performance memorable:
- Introduce Yourself: A warm, confident introduction sets a positive tone.
- End Gracefully: Always bow or acknowledge the audience’s applause with a smile.
5. For Families: How to Support Your Performer
Parents and families play a crucial role in recital success. Here’s how you can help:
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before the recital begins to find seating and allow your child time to settle in.
- Encourage Without Pressure: Celebrate effort and progress, regardless of the performance outcome.
- Follow Recital Etiquette: Silence phones, avoid using flash photography, and remain seated during performances.
6. Key Event Details
Don’t forget these important details for our upcoming recital:
- Date and Time: Saturday, January 25th from 2 to 6pm.
- Location: Nicholas Martin Hall at Texas Wesleyan University
- Arrival Time: Students should arrive at least 30 minutes early for warm-up and instructions.
7. Celebrate the Moment
The recital is a celebration of dedication and growth. After the performance, take time to reflect on the progress made and set new goals for the future.
Remember, every performer’s journey is unique. Whether this is your first recital or one of many, we’re proud of your hard work and can’t wait to see you shine on stage!
For any additional questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at Benbrook Music Academy. Let’s make this recital a memorable experience for everyone!
Did you miss the recital registration deadline? Don’t worry—we’ll have another one in June!
Get Healthy! Stay Healthy!
The New Year is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to start fresh. Many of us embrace this season with resolutions to improve our health, happiness, and overall quality of life—not just for ourselves, but for those we care about. Yet, it’s all too common for those resolutions to lose steam before spring even arrives.
So, what’s the key to making lasting, meaningful change?
Here are five foundational steps to help you create healthy habits that stick:
1. Set Realistic Goals
Be specific about what you want to achieve and take the time to ask yourself, “Why is this important to me?” That deep, personal “why” becomes your anchor, keeping you motivated even when the going gets tough.
2. Create a Plan
A dream without a plan is just a wish. Invest time in developing a step-by-step strategy that supports your goals. Break it down into manageable actions and track your progress to stay focused and accountable.
3. Educate Yourself
It’s not just about knowing what to do; it’s about understanding why it matters. For
example, knowing how excess carbs impact your blood sugar, energy levels, and mood can give you the insight needed to make informed choices. Knowledge is power—it’s also a great motivator!
4. Build a Support System
You don’t have to go it alone. Team up with family, friends, or even your kids! Sharing
common goals and supporting each other creates accountability and makes the journey more enjoyable.
5. Embrace Lifestyle Changes
Health isn’t a quick fix—it’s a lifelong commitment. That’s why it’s important to find
activities and habits you truly enjoy. When healthy choices feel rewarding, they naturally become part of your daily routine.
As you guide your children through their music lessons and encourage them to build skills and discipline, remember that you’re also setting an example of perseverance and growth. Whether it’s in music, health, or any other pursuit, small, consistent steps lead to big, lasting results.
Bonus for Benbrook Music Academy Families:
Schedule a free 15-minute Discovery Call before January 31st, 2025, and mention Benbrook Music Academy to receive an extended 30-minute session.Let’s explore how you can create a healthier, more balanced lifestyle for you and your family.
Wishing you health, harmony, and happiness this New Year,
Coach Ken Kehs
Holistic Health and Wellness Coach
🎶 Winter Recital Update: Students Are Placed! 🎶
We’re thrilled to share that 80 students are officially set for our 2025 Winter Recital! The sign-up period has closed, and student placements are finalized. We can’t wait to see their incredible performances!
Recital Details:
Date: Saturday, January 25th, 2025
Location: Nicholas Martin Hall, Texas Wesleyan University (1309 Wesleyan St, Fort Worth, TX 76105)
Time: Recitals will be held at 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, and 5 PM.
All participating students have been assigned their recital time slots. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the office.
Missed the Registration? Don’t worry! If you didn’t make it into the Winter Recital, we’ll be hosting another recital at the end of Spring 2025, and we’d love to see you there!
We’re so excited to celebrate our students’ hard work and enjoy a day filled with unforgettable music.
🎶 Benbrook Music Academy—Where Your Musical Journey Begins! 🎶
Celebrating Student Achievements: Camila's BLT Award & More!
A big shout-out to Camila for earning the Baseline Testing Award at her school for achieving the highest grade in science and math. Way to go, Camila—we’re so proud of your hard work and dedication!
Do you have a special skill or accomplishment you’d like to show off? Whether it’s sports, art, community service, or something else, we’d love to hear about it! Share your achievements with the Director during your next visit, and you might be featured in an upcoming newsletter.
Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or you’ve been with us for years, we’re excited to continue creating, learning, and performing alongside you at Benbrook Music Academy. Not a student yet? We’d love to have you join us! Get started by visiting www.BenbrookMusicAcademy.com, calling or texting us at 817-767-3373.
Musical Ladder System
Achievements
The Benbrook Music Academy is the only music school in Benbrook that gives their students the opportunity to earn special color wristband bracelets (kids and teens love them!), trophies AND certificates for passing musical tests with the Musical Ladder System®. It has been awarded multiple patents and is being used by schools nationwide.
Do other schools offer trophies and certificates? A few. But none of them inspire their students with smiling faces by giving them full color, really cool "Musical Ladder System®" wristbands that they can show off to their friends.
Congratulations to the students who passed a Musical Ladder Test in the month of December.
Student Farah earned her Song Bird level for 6 months of music lessons!
Student Elizabeth earned her Musician wristband for 9 months of music lessons!
Student Kenzie earned her Prodigy level for 2 years of music lessons!
Welcome!
Welcome to the new students who registered in December and to the students who received a Christmas Stocking with Music Lessons!
- James A.
- James B.
- Everlee D.
- Alex J.
- Camila J.
- Audrey H.
- Chloe H.
- Eileen K.
- Jack K.
- Nathan N.
- Will P.
- Andrés R.
- Anabella R.
- Andrew S.
- Ariana W.
- Zailey W.
Did you receive a Christmas Stocking with Music Lessons? Contact the office today to activate your gift!
Is Your Teacher Sold Out?
Many teachers have sold out. If you need a schedule change or would like to be added to a waiting list for a particular teacher, day or time, please contact any of our office staff team and they can add you to the waiting list. If you are not a student yet there are still limited lessons spots available.
Mr. Ashby (Voice, Bass, Guitar, and Drums)
Tuesday: 2 Spots Left
Wednesday: 1 Spot Left
Ms. Cepeda (Voice, Ukulele, and Piano)
Tuesday: 2 Spots Left
Wednesday: 1 Spot Left
Mr. Easter (Voice, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Ukulele)
Monday: 2 Spots Left
Tuesday: 4 Spots Left
Wednesday: SOLD OUT
Dr. Lee (Piano)
ALL DAYS SOLD OUT
Ms. Lwin (Voice, Piano, and Guitar)
Wednesday: 3 Spots Left
Ms. Moody (Voice, Piano, Violin, Guitar, and Drums)
Sunday: 1 Sport Left
Monday: 2 Spots Left
Thursday: 1 Spot Left
Ms. Peters (Piano)
Wednesday: 2 Spots Left
Dr. Quesada (Piano)
Monday: 2 Spots Left
Tuesday: 2 Spots Left
Wednesday: 1 Spot Left
Thursday: 2 Spots Left
Saturdays: 1 Spot Left
UPCOMING
EVENTS
- Christmas/New Year’s Break: December 22-January 1 (2024)
- 2025 Winter Recitals: January 25
- Spring Break: March 19-22
- April Break: April 6-8
- July Break: July 3-6
- Labor Day: September 1
- Thanksgiving Break: November 23-29
- Christmas/New Year’s Break: December 23 - January 1st.
