Community Music School at Southwestern College Continues with Lessons During Pandemic
Community Music School at Southwestern College Continues with Lessons During Pandemic
Winfield, Kan., Jan. 27, 2021 — Music lessons have changed dramatically during the pandemic but the teachers at The Community Music School (CMS) at Southwestern College are finding a way to still reach young musicians through Zoom lessons.
One teacher that is finding success with virtual lessons is Marsha Granberry. A lifelong music educator, Granberry was unsure at first how teaching lessons would translate into an online format.
“I have always been a hands-on piano teacher and I enjoy being able to work with my students face-to-face,” said Granberry. “I was pleasantly surprised by how well my students have adapted, but I miss seeing them in person on a weekly basis. I miss their smiles and hugs.”
Granberry has been a community-level piano teacher at CMS for over six years but has dedicated her life to reaching children of all ages through music. Michelle Zakharov, director of CMS, remains pleased that lessons have continued virtually during a time when meeting face-to-face isn’t safe or feasible.
“Our music students have blossomed during a time in history when being together is difficult,” said Zakharov. “These are uncertain times but by continuing their music lessons, our students have some normalcy that has been lost over the past 10 months.”
Zakharov says that music is a component in the emotional well-being of children. “Our teachers have not let what’s happening in our world come between them and their students. I am proud of how our teachers have found a way to connect with their students on a new level.”
The CMS is currently enrolling new students in piano, violin, viola, cello, bass, and voice and has teachers available at times that are most convenient for families and their busy lifestyles. Zakharov says to not let social distancing stop parents from starting to learn an instrument.
“Our teachers have created wonderful ways to continue teaching and have found their students focused, open, and ready to learn, even though they are learning through a virtual platform.”
Anyone interested in learning more about the Community Music School and what it offers, please call Zakharov at (620) 229-6188, email cms@sckans.edu, or visit the CMS website at sckans.edu/cms.
