Guitar instructor Matthew O’Neil gives a lesson to Andrew Bixler, 10, of Kyle. (Photo by Kim Hilsenbeck)
by KIM HILSENBECK
Even during a recession, the business has grown from 50 students since opening in 2009 to 144 students today, with students coming from as far away as Dripping Springs, Wimberley and Lockhart.
To make more room for the students and their 14 instructors, the studio recently took over the other half of the building it leases at 168A Kirkham Circle in Plum Creek Square. Despite a down economy, Brown believes parents find a way to afford music lessons.
“Music is so important to their education,” she said. “I believe people sacrifice to give their kids this opportunity.”
For Brown, the studio is a continuation of her 30-plus year music career. It’s also one of her biggest passions.
What started as in-home piano lessons by Brown’s daughter, Jennifer Sandoval, has blossomed into five private instruction rooms, two music theory labs and a group studio. Curious Chords offers lessons in piano, voice, clarinet, flute, guitar, composition, songwriting, drum, violin and even Kindermusik, a method of early childhood education in music and movement.
During a lesson on a recent afternoon, Bailey Hudgeons, 10, of Dripping Springs seemed to be having fun with her guitar and voice instructor, Zack Kibodeaux of San Marcos. He sang and played along with her to Taylor Swift’s song “Back to December.”
Another student, Anna Dickerson, 7 of Buda, said she is looking forward to an upcoming recital on Dec. 10, even though she doesn’t like playing for an audience yet.
“I like playing piano a lot,” Anna said.
Brown’s students range from age 4 to 70. She is also planning a senior adult program for those who always wanted to take lessons but never did.
Curious Chords has two recitals a year, held at the Plum Creek Golf Club. “I invite folks to come to the recital or stop by the studio and check us out,” Brown said. She’ll even give prospective students a free lesson.
