Shelley Yakubow
Co-Director of Studio Operations
Ms. Shelley earned a Bachelor of Elementary Education from the University of Alberta, where she built a strong foundation in child development, curriculum design, and effective teaching strategies.
Teaching Experience
As the daughter of Music Maker Workshops founder, Beverly Bigam, Shelley has been part of the studio’s story from the very beginning. After earning her teaching degree, she began her career as a kindergarten teacher before joining her mother to help teach young children in the studio’s small group music classes.
This year marks Shelley’s 25th anniversary at Music Maker Workshops.
When she first joined the studio, Shelley taught Music for Little Mozarts®, group piano classes, music camps, and educational workshops. During those early years, Music Maker Workshops emphasized collaborative music-making through engaging group instruction for young children.
Shelley believes every child learns differently. She designs programs that combine visual, auditory, and hands-on (kinesthetic) learning to help students succeed. Her goal has always been to build confidence, inspire creativity, and develop a lifelong love of music.
As the studio grew, Shelley and the Music Maker Workshops team recognized that students often made the greatest long-term progress through personalized, one-on-one instruction. This insight led the studio to expand its customized private lesson program while continuing to offer select group classes, camps, workshops, and special events.
Studio Leadership
Today, Shelley serves as Co-Director of Studio Operations, where she helps lead the studio alongside her sister, Kim Steedman. You’ll see Shelley at the front desk usually on a Monday! However throughout the week she oversees many of the systems and programs that support the studio’s daily success while working closely with faculty and staff to develop innovative educational programs, strengthen studio operations, mentor team members, and create meaningful experiences for students and families.
Shelley is passionate about carrying forward the vision her mother established nearly three decades ago while continuing to grow and evolve Music Maker Workshops for future generations. Her focus is on creating an environment where students feel encouraged, families feel supported, and teachers have the resources they need to help every student reach their full potential.
Community Leadership
Shelley proudly served for three years on the Board of Directors for the Ahwatukee Chamber of Commerce. During her service, she helped strengthen relationships among local businesses, supported community initiatives, and promoted the growth of the Ahwatukee business community.