Dennis Alexander Workshop

On April 18, 2017, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my favorite composers: Dennis Alexander. He debuted a new duet and presented a piano pedagogy workshop at Schmitt Music, covering teaching topics such as composition, playing by ear, and engaging students of all levels with quality repertoire.

It just so happens that Dennis Alexander and I are distant relatives! My husband’s great aunt is Dennis’ aunt. I will take that as my claim to fame!

Two of my favorite compositions by Dennis Alexander:

Toccata Brillante, Intermediate Piano Solo
King Tut, Late Elementary Piano Solo

Click here for a complete list of his compositions.

December 6, 2016July 25, 2018 by Leslie Newlin

Winter Recital 2016

On Saturday, December 3, 2016 Leslie’s Music Studio presented our annual Winter Recital at Schmitt Music in Overland Park. Students played pieces in a variety of styles, including Christmas and holiday, classical, and contemporary.

Students traced their hands on green paper before the recital and we made this fun piano hands wreath!

November 18, 2016December 6, 2016 by Leslie Newlin

Honors Recital 2016

Every year, the Olathe Music Teachers Association (OMTA) hosts an Honors Recital showcasing some of Olathe’s finest student musicians. Students must be nominated by their teacher for this honor. Two outstanding students from Leslie’s Music Studio were nominated this year to perform in the 2016 OMTA Honors Recital. Continue reading →

November 18, 2016July 25, 2018 by Leslie Newlin

Halloween Recital 2016

On October 29, 2016, Leslie’s Music Studio joined with the studios of Julie Bosworth and Liza Zumbrunnen to present a Halloween Recital for students in grades K-5 at Cedar Lake Village retirement community.

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August 13, 2016December 6, 2016 by Leslie Newlin

Creative Composition Workshop Highlights 2016

On August 6, 2016, Leslie’s Music Studio hosted our first Creative Composition Workshop.

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August 6, 2016November 21, 2016 by Leslie Newlin

60th Annual M.A.M.A. Festival in Lake of the Ozarks

Last weekend (July 28-31) two LMS students traveled to Lake Ozark, Missouri to participate in the 60th Annual MidAmerica Music Association Festival. Nathan and Mahathi have spent the last 6 months preparing to play at this adjudicated event. It was my honor and privilege to help them prepare their piano solos and support them at the festival.

The festival was a smashing success! Both students received Superior ratings (95% or above) on their piano solos and went home with trophies. I am so proud of my students! Continue reading →

July 27, 2016November 21, 2016 by Leslie Newlin

Off the Charts: Learning to Play by Ear Workshop 2016

This Saturday (July 23, 2016) Leslie’s Music Studio held it’s first Playing by Ear Workshop for students in grades 1-5. Eric Newlin was our guest teacher and led students through ear training exercises and how to play piano without sheet music. Continue reading →

Leslie's Music Studio

Author: Leslie Newlin