Best local Music, Arts & Entertainment Music Maker Workshops won the BeLOCAL BESTLocal business Award last week.  The presentation ceremony was held at the Ahwatukee Foothills Golf Course. BeLOCAL invited business owners from all over the valley.  Business owners from Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, San Tan, and Ahwatukee attended the event.  Winners took home a plaque…

The studio was started by Mrs. Bev Bigam Mrs. Bev Bigam has always loved music and when she moved to the states from Victoria, B.C. 25 years ago she wanted to start a music school. The studio started as a traveling musical workshop program.  This is why the studio has the name, ‘workshops’ within it. …

Camps Are Filling up Fast! It’s only the beginning of May but the summer music camps for children ages 5-10 are almost full!  With various themes, these camps spark creativity and fun around learning new instruments. Students get to choose three instruments to learn from piano, guitar, ukulele, violin, voice and drums. These camps are…

Introducing Cheston! Cheston, 11, was born with several medical issues and diagnosed with Autism Spetrum Disorder at age 2.  He started taking music lessons at our studio a few years ago.  He takes weekly piano lessons with Ms. Cindy and together they’ve developed a great bond. Phoenix Children’s Article on Cheston To read about Cheston’s…

Music Maker Workshops is proud to present the 2022 Spring Recitals.  These recitals will be held at Esperanza church in Ahwatukee.  This facility has a beautiful campus and quaint chapel with lovely acoustics.  We appreciate their support of Esperanza over the years.  We have been using their facility for over a decade.  This spring they…

2022 Drum & Guitar Competition at Cactus Jacks Article from Ahwatukee Foothills Newspaper An Interview with Competition Facilitator, Office Manager Jessica Magee. Tell us about this Competition This is the 4th year we have held the drum competition. It started as an idea from one of our instructors, Mr. David, as a chance to honor…

Introducing Mr. An, MMW Violin Teacher Be positive, be devoted and be patient. At what age did you start learning the violin? My parents had bought a hand-size violin for me to play like a toy since my first birthday. Here is a picture of me when I was four years old playing the violin…

Jam Nights at MMW Students should understand how to play chords as well as the location of notes on their instrument because we do a lot of changes on the fly. – Explained Instructor Alex What is Jam Night? We think it’s very important for students to get out of the classrooms and have the…

Introducing Feature Piano Student, Blythe What is your favorite part of taking music lessons at Music Maker Workshops “I think my favorite thing about taking music lessons is playing and hearing music that I’m playing.” What is your favorite song to play and why? ” The Magic Man is my favorite song to play because…

What is your favorite part of taking music lessons at Music Makers? I like going there and being able to talk with my teacher (Ms. Andrea) cause she really makes music exciting fun and I think it’s hard for students especially my age and even younger to enjoy practicing and learning music. She makes it…

Introducing Drum Student James W. What is your favorite part of taking music lessons at Music Maker Workshops? “I like that I get to spend the full time with Mr. Devin being silly and playing the drums.” What is your favorite song to play and why? “Falling (Adrenaline) because I played it in the recital…

Introducing Preslie S “When I was invited to perform at the winter recital with Music Maker’s I was so nervous, but it turned out to be really nice and a good accomplishment.” What is your favorite part of taking music lesson at Music Maker Workshops? “My favorite part about Music Maker’s is Ms. Justine, and…

Performer, teacher, rhythm curator, and music lover through and through. What is your first memory of playing the drums? I remember pulling out my mom’s pots and pans and trying to drum along with a kid’s TV show when I was around six years old. From that point, really anytime I was near a drumset…

An interview with Madeleine C. about her upcoming performance in The Wizard of Oz. Madeleine will be performing in her upcoming school musical, The Wizard of Oz.  This classic musical will have you remembering why there is “No Place Like Home and Follow the Yellow Brick Road.” By: L. Frank Baum With Music and Lyrics…

Abby is a fantastic student.  Recently she placed 1st in the MMW drum competition learned to play drum rudiments in under 1 minute and is now performing with the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra!” – Mr. Devin From Abby: “My favorite part of taking lessons is continuing to build my skills and relationship with my amazing…

Akimal A-al Middle School’s Rattler Pride Players Present: The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum With Music and Lyrics of the MGM MOTION PICTURE SCORE By Harold Arien and E. Y. Harburg Introducing Molly who has been cast as Dorthy! My favorite place to practice singing at home is definitely my room! I can…

Ava has made phenomenal strides in her playing! Not to mention her marching band is winning multiple awards for their amazing work!  From Ava: ” I really enjoy playing the flute and working with Ms. Rachel. I’ve been taking lessons at Music Makers for almost 4 years. Everyone is really nice and always in a…

Checking in with Tatum Lynn Tatum Lynn teaches voice lessons and Music for Little Mozart piano lessons at Music Maker Workshops.  A vibrant ray of positivity we are so proud to have Tatum on our faculty.  Let’s hear about her musical  journey… Follow those dreams! And if a door closes, open a new one!  When…

An interview with Chulyoung Park Chulyoung has recently joined the faculty at Music Maker Workshops.  Chulyoung teaches Classical, Rock, Pop & Folk.  He’s open to teaching all ages and ability levels. Music is the most precious gift in the world. Don’t doubt the power of music and always be prepared for where music needs to…

Introduction Wesley Student of the Month “Wesley always rises to meet and even surpass every challenge I give him. He always plays with an energy that inspires everyone that watched him, including myself!”  Mr. Devin. Wesley’s favorite part of taking lessons at Music Makers is… “Mr. Devin is way cool and he likes funny stuff!”…

An interview with Dr. Steve Kinigstein “I believe music has the ability to unite, communicate, and form bonds between all people.” – Dr. Steve K. What is your favorite thing about being a musician? Easily, my favorite thing about being a musician is the joy of discovery. Whether I am playing or composing there is…

An interview with MMW master piano teacher Dr. Ying Kuo. What are the basics of music composition? The basics of music composition include nice melodies, reasonable harmony, counterpoint, clear musical form…etc. For me, the basics of music composition are the sounds. Whatever sounds I feel are beautiful would be a music material to me. What…

This is a picture of Artist Madison Archer painting a custom mural at Music Maker Workshops.

Introducing Jack “Jack always comes to lessons ready to learn and with a positive attitude! He practiced SO much for the winter recitals and his hard work and dedication shows! He did a wonderful job at the recitals and I’m excited that we’ll be adding piano to his lessons!” Ms. Micaela Jack’s favorite part of…

Introducing Dania “Dania is such a joy to teach! She is learning to play the piano and is eager to learn new things each week. Being her teacher is a blast! I can’t wait to see where her natural talents take her!” -Ms. Olivia Dahlia said she likes Music Makers because it has great teachers…

Impact Awards On December 2nd, 2021 Ahwatukee Foothills Women In Business hosted the Impact Awards at the Four Points by Sheraton in Phoenix.  This Gala included drinks, dinner, raffles, speeches, and an award ceremony.  The Guest Speaker was Christine Harms from the Arizona Cardinals. A Note from WIB Co-Chairs The impact awards are a great…

Introducing Anthony “Anthony is an excellent student. He is always ready for the lessons and likes to challenge himself and learn new pieces. Anthony loves practicing with the metronome and is diligent with his practice.” -Dr. Kim Anthony’s favorite part about lessons is taking lessons with Dr. Kim. He said, “It’s fun to learn new…

Collecting for the Food Bank The team at Music Maker Workshops rallied together and collected 223 pounds of food for the families and individuals we serve here at St. Vincent de Paul.  Last week we had the crew from the food bank stop by with the truck to load it all up. Thank you MMW…

Morning Music Camp Register Here Spark our child’s creativity with Morning Music Camp. This unique camp allows students to choose three instruments to learn: piano, ukulele, guitar, voice, or drums. Plus, teacher features, drum circles, seasonal crafts, and fun games make this a fun way to spend each morning! This camp is for students ages…

Introducing Sophie P. “Sophia works on her material regularly. Her music always sounds great, no matter how tricky it gets. She is always full of smiles. Keep it up!!” -Mr. Mikey Her favorite part about taking lessons at Music Makers is “working with Mr. Mikey because “even when the music is hard he encourages me…

Performing arts are valuable for people of all ages. Both young and old can participate and enjoy theatre, dance, and music. Attend Live Performances The Phoenix metropolitan offers a great variety of musical productions. As well this area is a hot spot for many entertainers. Therefore attending live performances is one of the best ways…

Introducing Braden M. “Week after week, Braden goes above and beyond. I tell him to work on one song, he looks into 3 and is consistent on all three! There are not many other students who practice more than Braden, keep up the great work!” -Allen Braden’s favorite thing about MMW is learning from Mr.…

Who is Mr. An? Zhihuan AN is a violin teacher at MMW.  He is also now a current Violin Doctoral student of the School of Music of Arizona State University.  He earned his Artist Diploma from Texas Christian University in 2020 and completed his Master’s degree at Campbellsville University in 2016. Mr. An has rich private…

Introducing Sarah K. “Sarah is always excited to learn! She brings a happy and positive outlook to every lesson. She plays with strength and exuberance.” -Ms. Justine From Sarah: “I like being able to see my teacher every week and work on something I love. I also love being around people who love their jobs!!…

MMW is Proud to Present the Winter Recital Series You Are Invited to Participate! Who: This is open to all active MMW students. Where:  At Esperanza Lutheran Church Cost: $35.00 Per Participant Friends & Family are Free Sign Up here for Rectials   Friday, December 10th 5:30-6:45 pm 6:30-7:15 pm 7:30-8:30 pm Friday, December 17th…

Clare obtained a bachelor’s degree in Musicology at Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences. Also, she completed the courses for the Master’s in Musicology and Dancology at Southwest University.  She has taught violin with the Suzuki method for 10 years at Yew Chung International School. She served as the school’s concertmaster, orchestra teacher, and conductor. …

Congratulations Student of the Month: Aratrika M.!! From her family: Aratrika loves to take music lessons at MMW because of the encouragement and attention she receives from her teacher. Also, she really enjoys participating in the MMW recitals. Aratrika’s favorite song is, A Thousand Years by Christina Perri. Keep up the wonderful work Aratrika!

Music Maker Workshops is excited to play it forward with instrument scholarship.

Introducing Aratrika “Aratrika is a strong singer who loves music and sightreading. She comes to lessons prepared and is always excited to learn something new!” -Ms. Sydney From her family: Aratrika loves to take music lessons at MMW because of the encouragement and attention she receives from her teacher. Also, she really enjoys participating in…

Introducing Trent D. Congratulations Student of the Month: Trent D.!! “Trent consistently practices and keeps up with all the assigned materials, most of it is difficult! He always has a great attitude and a giant smile on his face. He is a joy to have in his class, keep up the great work Trent!” –…

MMW is giving away a digital piano & acoustic guitar with new scholarship program. Are you in need of an instrument?  Please consider applying for one of the used instruments listed below.  Instruments will change according to what is available. Please understand these are all used instruments that may have scratches but definitely playable. To…

MMW hosted an event for the Ahwatukee Women in Business What a great event at Music Maker Workshops.  This was the WIB’s very first Sip & Strum event for local business owners.  We had a wonderful evening sipping wine,  enjoying Pita Jungle, & learning to play the Ukulele. Thanks to our instructor Mr. Allen Mendez…

Join us for Trunk or Treat FREE Trunk or Treat event happening from 6pm to 8pm in the shopping center!  Hosted by the Goodman Taylor Team There will be lots of candy, spooky music, a photo booth, face painting, a coloring station, food trucks and lots of fun! Foothills pool care is collecting socks and…

She is a Joy to Teach Congratulations Student of the Month: Sadie C.!! “Sadie always comes to lessons with a smile and I am always excited to see how much she has grown. She remembers everything we talk about and is thorough in her practice. She has flawless technique and I have loved teaching her!”…

Indroducing our Sudent of the Month Eli! From Eli: My favorite part of taking lessons is learning new notes and songs. My favorite song to play is the”Barking song” because it is my song for my dog Bella.” Congratulations Student of the Month: Eli D.!! “Eli always comes prepared for a fun time in our…

Ms. Kinley came in for lessons ready to learn a Harry Potter Piano Song At the studio students seem to be enjoying the Harry Potter practice pursuit.  Last week they all got sorted into Harry Potter houses.  Kinley got sorted into Hufflepuff.  

Introducting MMW Flute Student Ellie! Audition Requirements: Collections for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Alto Sax and Trumpet: • Grade by Grade edited by Janet Way, Boosey and Hawkes Inc. publishers (Difficulty level: Grade by Grade No. 2 = medium easy, Grade by Grade No. 3 = medium) More Information on Metro Youth Symphony Located in Mesa,…

Music Maker Workshops is a collection site for Los Nino Elementary school supplies. We’re excited to be a drop off location for this school drive! From the organizer: “Kyrene de Los Niños needs our community support. This Title I Kyrene school is actively working to lower its COVID case count and maintain a safe and…

Meet Brody, Drummer Extraordinaire Brody was all ready to perform at a Friday Under the Lights Recital at the Urban Tuk Cafe.  These recitals were held last May, 2021.  This outside venue was chosen to help us navigate a recital during the pandemic.  The beautiful outside stage and lovely lights provided us with a fantastic…

Introducing Leah G. She’s always prepared & comes to lessons ready to learn. “Leah started having in-person lessons this month and has gone above and beyond! Her music is always so well prepared and she always comes to lessons ready to learn and with a positive attitude!”  – Ms. Micaela What is your favorite part…

Introducing Abigail J. Becoming an Artist Since starting to learn guitar in June of 2019, Abigail has gone above and beyond to grow her skills and challenge herself.  Her first undertaking after learning a few chords and rhythms was to Sing and Play.  Which she did beautifully to perform All of Me by John Legend…

Ms. Kim Steedman is recognized as a valuable team player of the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations to Ms. Kim who is the Ambassador of the Month for the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce.  This title is given in recognition of her outstanding service.  Kim’s enthusiastic personality and hospitable nature is perfect for welcoming…

Introducing violin student Alinna O. “Alinna always brightens my day when I get to teach her violin! She is so sweet and always willing to do what is asked. She has been working hard at developing her bow hold and great sound on the violin while learning her songs. Great job Alinna, keep up the…

Introducing Ava B, who’s loved to sing her whole life. Introducing and Featuring Ava who is a voice student at Music Maker Workshops.  Currently she is taking lessons with Ms. Micaela.   “Ava is such a joy to have in voice lessons! She is always super focused, well prepared, and takes feedback and criticism extremely well.…

Music Maker Workshops & Milano Music work together to provide instrument rentals for local schools. Music Maker Workshops has been working alongside the team of Milano Music for over two decades to provide instrument rentals.  Milano music will provide full-service support for local music teachers to make their life easier.  Together we host rental nights…

Music Maker Workshops hosted an instrument petting zoo for the local community. This is a picture of Mr. Jacob C. playing the trombone for a young participant. On Saturday, August 13th, Music Maker Workshop hosted an instrument petting zoo where children could come and touch (play) different instruments and listen to how they sounded. Instruments…

Celebrating 5 years teaching at Music Maker Workshops The saying “Music is my Happy Place” definitely seems to describe Emilio to a tee!  A teacher filled with positive energy and a genuine love for music.  His talent and knowledge has been greatly appreciated at the studio.  Recently he has celebrated his fifth year teaching at…

When: Tuesday, Aug 10th Morning Mixer Thank you to all who attended the morning mixer at Music Maker Workshops on Tuesday, Aug 10th, 2021.   What is a Morning Mixer? Morning Mixers are networking events that allow a business to open its doors to Chamber members and non-members for the opportunity for attendees to meet…

Introducing Titus “Titus has been consistently playing at a high level that most students his age just don’t get near until late teen years. He spent a good amount of time learning the notes on his instrument. He has kept an open ear to music of rock, metal, jazz, blues, funk, soul, r&b. Because of…

Open House at Music Maker Workshops Music Maker Workshops is hosting a Back-to-School Open House Saturday, August 14th from 9-11 am. All ages welcome! Kids will have the opportunity to experience the instrument petting zoo. Take a tour of the studio while you learn about their music lesson programs. Giveaways and Free registration will be…

Ms. Rachel celebrates 1 year teaching at MMW Introducing Ms. Rachel R, Flute & Piano Instructor Rachel Reyes has been teaching at the studio for 1 year already.  She is making beautiful music with her students both virtually and in-studio.  Last year she moved from Seattle, WA to pursuit a Master of Music Performance degree…

What is this Program? This band meets at Music Maker Workshop once a week and is designed for middle-school & high-school students. This program teaches students how to improvise together, teaches an extended palette of chords, composition, and knowledge of melody. It’s a small group of intermediate to advanced musicians. Looking for Musicians of All…

Student Recognition to Kinley C! Kinley comes to Music Maker Workshops for both Voice & Piano Lessons weekly.  This last year with the restrictions due to the pandemic she took both virtual and in-studio.  She is consistent and loyal to her musical studies. In addition, this summer she took 5 weeks of music camp to…

Mr. Austen celebrates 12 years at MMW A Multi-instrumentalist, Performer & Thoughtful Teacher Austen has a BMus in Jazz Performance from ASU, as well as 20 years of experience as a live performer and 12 years experience as a private educator. Austen’s range of experience makes him a versatile teacher; as a 12-year member of…

Introducting Savana a MMW Ukulele and Guitar Student. Savana started off with little know-how on the Uke but has spent a lot of time practicing to get better. She was one of Mr. Allen’s most prepared students for the summer recital playing “La Vie En Rose” which has Maj7 Dim7 & Min7 chords #jazz. Savana…

Whiz Kidz Playland sets up in the same mall as MMW Recently Whiz Kids Playland has moved to a neighboring suite at the mall where Music Maker Workshops is located.  This is on the SE corner of 32nd Street and Chandler Blvd in Ahwatukee.  We had a lovely time talking with the Owner and Director,…

Introducing Mr. Tim C. “Tim has been a cello student at MMW for over 6 years. During that time he has participated in numerous recitals and spent hundreds of hours in lessons and practice. Last March, he purchased a beautiful new cello as an ongoing commitment to his musical education. Tim is a dedicated student…

Ahwatukee Community Cup Award Congratulations to Mrs. Jessica Magee who was awarded the Community Cup from the Ahwatukee Chamber of Commerce. This is in recognition for Jessica’s willingness to help others. Music Maker Workshops is so excited to celebrate our office manager! Ahwatukee Women in Business In addition to managing Music Maker Workshops Jessica is…

Thank you Ahwatukee This was our 20th year of providing summer camp programming to the community of Ahwatukee.  We did minimal advertising and all our camps were sold out at the beginning of the summer due to our loyal students and community families spreading the word. What is Summer Camp? Summer Music Camps: These unique…

List of Teacher Openings: Last Update 7/26/21 Mr. Allen (Guitar & Brass) Monday: SOLD OUTTuesday: 1 spot leftWednesday: SOLD OUTThursday: SOLD OUTFriday: 1 spot left  Mr. An (Violin & Viola) New to Faculty Friday: 4 spots Saturday: 5 spots   Ms. Chandra (Violin & Piano) Monday: 1 spot left Tuesday: 1 spot leftSaturday: SOLD OUT Mr. Devin (Drums…

We are a Milano’s Music Depot Serving Ahwatukee since 1997 Music Maker Workshops has been working collaboratively with Milano’s to provide Ahwatukee with Locally owned and maintained instruments. Ahwatukee residents can come to our studio and rent a Milano’s instrument. Our rental program has been developed through decades of working with the music educators of…

Piano Competition at Music Maker Workshops The summer piano competition gives pianists an opportunity to showcase their skills with a selected piece on an acoustic piano. The end-of-summer showcase was a success with a full house of drummers and fans! Bravo to our Participants Bravo to the 2nd Annual Piano Competition participants!! We’re so proud…

Summer Drum Competition at MMW The summer drum competition gives drummers an opportunity to showcase their skills in a drum solo on an acoustic drum set. The end-of-summer showcase was a success with a full house of drummers and fans! Congratulations to the students who placed: Division 1: First – Abby H. Second – Madden…

Mask Policy: Thank you for your continued support as we navigate through COVID-19. Face masks will be optional as of August 1st, 2021. We will continue to offer free masks at the front desk for anyone who wants to wear one. If you’d like your teacher to continue to wear a mask during your lesson please just…

Pre-Teen Camps for Ages 9-12 & Teen Camps for Ages 13-17 Music Maker Workshops is proud to offer a summer program designed for pre-teens and teens to strengthen their vocal techniques and foster a love for singing.  During these 4-day vocal camps, students will receive coaching in breathing, posture, expression, and mic technique. This camp…

Teaching music is a family affair for Ahwatukee’s Music Maker Workshops By Sara Edwards – Contributing writer May 13, 2021, 4:47pm EDT Phoenix Business Journal Music Maker Workshops is made up of (from left) co-director Kim Steedman; office manager Jessica Magee; and co-director Shelley Yakubow. Sisters Kim Steedman and Shelley Yakubow have been involved with…

Music Maker Workshops in Ahwatukee is honoring mothers in a unique way this year with a music lesson giveaway. Any resident in the community-children, friends, family – can nominate a deserving mother to win a music lesson package worth over $100.00 This year the studio has increased the giveaway to include 10 lucky moms. “We…

After Tammy Felker’s mother passed away, among the most difficult items to part with was her mother’s library of sheet music. She recalled how her mother Dee Felker played piano and organ for a Congregational Church in Colorado before retiring in Arizona and how every Christmas, she sang “Silent Night” in German. It took 16…

Thank You Ahwatukee for Voting Us #1 Music Lesson Studio! After surviving the infamous year of the pandemic this award is pretty sweet; coupled with the taste of chocolate chip Crumbl Cookies. Thanks to all the students, teachers, MMW admin staff, Ahwatukee chamber members & community friends for your votes. We appreciate you. Ahwatukee Foothills…

Let’s Get Practicing! Who: Open to all active MMW students! Any student who completes the board will receive an invite to an exclusive studio party at the end of the summer! Date TBD. When: This incentive will be held throughout Sept & October Where: Info and practice map provided at MMW studuio. What: Prizes will…

Spring Recital Under the Lights! Link to Sign-Up Genius Who: Open to all currently enrolled MMW students of any age and ability.  Students should sign up to reserve a time on a specific day.  Students should inform their teachers that they have signed up.  Teachers will help prepare performers for the event. Students can bring…

Why Are Flashcards Useful? Flashcards are one of the greatest ways to practice reading treble and bass clef notes. Some research has found that this kind of active recall retrieval practice leads to 150% better retention than passive studying. The take-away: flashcards are effective because they make you pull information out of your memory (instead…

M More than just an apparel line, State Forty-Eight represents a lifestyle, a sense of community, and is an expression of pride. The homegrown brand offers gear for all that’s both stylish and comfortable.   Above all else, State Forty-Eight is about redefining the status-quo and inspiring others to rise up and stand for something they…

Dear MMW Families, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey issued an Executive Order yesterday that loosens COVID-19 restrictions in the community.  However, the Arizona Department of Health Services Emergency Measure 2020-04 is still in effect, requiring masks for all K-12 schools.  Since our music studio is a music instruction facility offering lessons to students of various ages…

Women in Business Our mission is to empower women to evolve personally and professionally by providing opportunities in leadership, development, education, and networking. Small Business Bingo Spring 2021 Women and Business are hosting the first-ever Small Business Ahwatukee Bingo game starting February 15th-March 31st! The small business bingo encourages traffic and exposure to local businesses. …

Planning A Summer to Remember Are you ready for your kiddos to unplug and to get their creative juices flowing?  We have the camp just for them! Spark our child’s creativity with Morning Music Camp. This unique camp allows students to choose three instruments to learn: piano, ukulele, guitar, voice, & drums. Plus, we’ll have…

Music Maker Workshops has taken the pledge to keep our music school safe.  We have been presented with this badge for our safety efforts. Stop COVID-19.  Save the Music We Pledge to: Have Students & Staff Wear Face Coverings. Check Temperatures from Students & Staff Before They Enter Classrooms Provide Free Hand Sanitizer in our…

Fox 10 News came to speak to co-directors Kim Steedman & Shelley Yakubow and Founder Beverly Bigam about how COVID -19 has impacted their business.

Music Books for Exchange Music Maker Workshops is proud to announce Ahwatukee’s first-ever Little Music Library for the community. Our Little Libraries program supports musicians of all ages in creating opportunities to share music through book exchanges and fostering connections. On Friday, November 13th at 5:30 pm, MMW will be hosting a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony…

New Faces Lead Ahwatukee Women in Business In March of this year, Jess Magee volunteered to join Angelica Parra as co-chair of the Ahwatukee Chamber of Commerce Women in Business committee after her former partner stepped down to focus on her full-time career. Now, the two women lead the committee as “complements” to one another.…

COVID-19 Update At Music Maker Workshops, We’re Always Better Together. This unprecedented time has been difficult and unsettling. So thank you for all the students who continued throughout the past couple months taking virtual lessons: Thank you for your loyalty and support. Thanks for being there with us. As we move forward into our new reality,…

Cindy Weir is a registered Speech Language Pathologist who began working with hospitals and providing in-home care to children of families in the 1990s. As she was working, she thought to herself, “I should learn more music because I’m using it as I work with my students.” Already coming to music with a background in…

Cheston Brown Cheston with his teacher Ms. Cindy at Music Maker Workshops When Music Maker Workshops of Ahwatukee (MMW) opens on Monday mornings, Cheston Brown runs to his classroom for a piano lesson with Miss Cindy, which brings great happiness to his mother, Hope Dob – bins-Brown. Cheston had taken lessons elsewhere but had discontinued…

Kim Steedman and Shelley Yakubow. co-directors of family-owned Music Maker Workshops in Ahwatukee flank long-time employee Jess Libman(Courtesy of Kevin Poleyumptewa/Moonlit Dreams Photography). By Coty Dolores Miranda, Ahwatukee Foothills Newspaper, April 29th, 2020 Music Maker Workshops, a family-owned and operated music school that opened their doors in Ahwatukee in 1997, has created an answer for…

How to Make the Most of Spring Break How to Make the Most of Spring Break (as a Music Student). Hello everyone, and welcome to Spring Break! I hope you are taking the time to actually have a break. It’s important to make sure you give yourself that break to breathe a little, especially when…

Why Joining An Ensemble Could Change Your Life Ensembles at Music Maker Workshops is something our local music studio is proud to provide.  Are you someone who likes playing their instrument? Do you like making music with other people? Do you feel like the school band is too dull, or too limiting? Well, Music Maker…

This week I would like to talk about the benefits of a guest instructor for lessons. I know teachers always want to be there for their students. Still, sometimes we will have to be away for a variety of reasons, including having gigs and performances, or being sick. Having a guest instructor can be a…

A Research Summary in Support of Kindermusik by Deanne Kells, M.A. Early childhood classroom teachers believe in the power of music to engage children. What scientifically based research supports the use of music and musical instruction to build early literacy skills? This research summary answers that question, providing support to educators who wish to integrate…

How to Comfort Your Pet with Music Can music in our daily lives comfort our pets and make them happier?  Pets are emotional creatures with moods that swing every now and then. Therefore, if you want to keep your pet happy and at ease, then music therapy is the way to go and as a…

There are a few simple ways to be prepared and get the most out of music lessons.   Practice your Music This one is as important as it is simple to do. Make sure that whatever music, exercises you are working on with your teacher is ready before the lesson. Therefore your teacher can teach you…

Music Maker Workshops is a family-owned and operated music studio, in Ahwatukee, started by Mrs. Beverly Bigam in 1997.  This family business has been bringing the musical arts to the local area for over two decades. With the faithfulness of the community, the studio has steadily grown and developed into an Ahwatukee gem. It all…

Article by Foothills Living, October 2019 Edition. Ms. Abby Simpson Puckett teaches flute, piccolo, saxophone and piano at Music Maker Workshops and just won first prize of the National Flute Association’s Piccolo Orchestral Audition Masterclass Competition! From hundreds of applicants, it was an unbelievable achievement to win first prize.This year’s NFA convention was held in…

A new book that shows how music not only soothes the savage beast but can add a new dimension to almost anyone’s life, especially people 40 and older, has spotlighted an Ahwatukee business and a local musician. Calling Ahwatukee “home to a music underground of amateurs who have created a quiet community of song,” Richmond, Virginia,…

Article by Foothills Living, July 2019 Edition When a 17-year-old athlete bolts through the front door of hishome saying that his piano lesson didn’t feel like practice andthat he wished he could have played for hours, a parent has towonder what made the piano lesson so much fun. To begin, the music teacher is Micheal…

Article by Foothills Living, May 2019 Edition. Take a tour of Music Maker Workshops and you’ll likely hear all sorts of amazing sounds, from music to laughter. It’s an environment buzzing with activity, a joyful place that fosters creativity. MMW is locally owned and operated and was founded on the vision of promoting positive music…

By Krystin Wiggs Ahwatukee Foothills News What comes first, a baby’s first steps or a baby’s first song?According to Kim Steedman, a Kindermusik teacher at Music Maker Workshops, enrolling babies in music classes can actually help them develop their motor skills and strength to prepare them for walking.“For my own children, their language and cognitive…

Music Makers Workshops3233 E. Chandler Blvd. Suite 2480-706-1224 | musicmakerworkshops.com Music Maker Workshop offers lessons, instrument rentals, and programs such as “Rock Band” classes, where students can learn and collaborate with each other. The family-owned studio has been operating for almost 20 years and is staffed for a wide range of instrument lessons for all…

By Erin Sullivan Special to AFN Music Maker Workshops has flourished for 14 years in Ahwatukee Foothills as a true family business that continues to expand.Since its initial establishment, it has evolved into more than a studio meant solely for private lessons. It now serves as a place for music lovers of all ages to…

Apr 22, 2015 The Kyrene community is invited to attend an evening of fine arts entertainment on Friday, April 24, at 5:30 p.m. at Mountain Pointe High School, 4201 E. Knox Road, Phoenix. Sponsored by Kyrene Community Education and Outreach, Music Maker Workshops, the Kyrene Music and Fine Arts Association and Arts Council 4 Youth,…

By Allison Hurtado, Ahwatukee Foothills News Apr 6, 2014 Kids camps at Ahwatukee Music Makers this summer will have children bringing out their inner artist. Preschoolers, ages 3 to 6, can enjoy a carnival-themed camp, called Confetti Days. Confetti Days is four mornings of crafts, games, snacks, stories, and music. Kids will get to ride a carousel…