The teVelde Conservatory of Music at 3440 South Higuera Street suite 100, San Luis Obispo, California.

Hi Bonnie. First off, although I have met you several times and sing Tevelde's praises to just about anyone I meet (I have referred at least three current students); I just read your bio and wow! I am humbled and impressed at the same time. I played piano and violin as a child and took voice as an adult. I have always believed in the well roundedness and personal pleasure/accomplishment/enhancement of music in ones life. My husband plays the piano well by ear (he is an engineer, go figure) and I am more of a piece it out by music person. I will tell you: Max (5 1/2) has been in and out of activities. Some he adores, some we withdraw from. Ever since our first little piano sessions with Shea when Max was 3, I fell in love with Tevelde. First off: the connection between Ms. Shea and Max was clear. She enthusiastically appeals to children and entices and inspires them. We did the group piano circle for a year, being the last ones in the class to hang on. The next year we attended a new school and our schedules conflicted with Max at Tevelde. Bummer. We tried an alternative school with a nice young male troubadour who I thought might work well. Although he was skilled; he did not have the knowledge of engaging Max (children). In addition, he began teaching in a method too mature for Max. We stopped after two classes, continuing to be in touch with Tevelde and Shea about openings. When we began a new school year, Eureka, a class time opening formed and we grabbed it. Back to Shea! At times I sit in on class, sometimes watch from the wait room. I can't help but marvel at Ms. Shea's patience, her inspirational style and she really reals Max in. He LOVES it. The material is age appropriate, she continues to engage and push him to the next level all the while making it fun. Max actually practices at home without me asking, unbelievable! I never did that as a child, my mom had to harp on me to practice ~ making it an obligation not a passion. That's the difference. The moment Max disengages I will make a choice whether to continue, as of now: he is self propelled in this mission to learn to play piano, and wishes to play wind instruments and electric guitar as well. Max and I have attended two youth symphonies at the PAC, enjoying 3 hours of classic music together. I love that we have appreciated together the SF Nutcracker and Shen Yun, he picks out the instruments that he recognizes and gets so excited when he sees the piano rolled out onto stage. Thank you for offering the best possible school and for employing teachers like Ms. Shea who bring to life the joy of music!

Fondly,

Tami Dickerson