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Blogs
This is where our expert teachers drop their knowledge! Here, you’ll find tips for students, guidance for parents, and inspiration for musicians of all ages and levels. From practice strategies and performance advice to updates about our programs and events, each post is designed to support you on your musical journey. We also highlight stories from our teachers, students, and community

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Meet Scott Bonshire
Scott Bonshire is a musician with over 49 years of experience in recording and live performing. He is also a dedicated music educator, having taught for over 39 years. Scott began his music career in 1965, influenced by rock, jazz, funk, and R&B, and inspired by drummers like Danny Seraphine and Steve Gadd. Active since the 1980s, he worked as an in-house musician at The Hyatt Oakbrook, Hyatt O'Hare, and Nick's Fishmarket during the Club Era. He has performed at corporate eve
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3 min read


Open Mic Night: Your Stage, Your Moment
I always, always recommend students, musicians, and performers to attend as many performing events as they can; because it is one of the best things you can do for yourself as a musician. To me, this is an extension to of one of our other programs. Anyways, Open Mic nights at Melody Mart are low-pressure events for students of Melody Mart and our community where developing artists can experiment with new material, receive constructive feedback, and connect with fellow musicia
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3 min read


Open House 2024 was a Success
We are thrilled to share the wonderful success of our 2024 Open House event with you! On May 07, our community came together for an unforgettable day of music, fun, and connection. Here's a recap of the highlights: A Musical Journey: Passport to Music Our musical petting zoo was the start of our open house-- Guests of all ages enjoyed the hands-on experience of exploring different instruments. It was a joy to see the excitement and curiosity as participants experimented with
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2 min read


Group Music Instruction at Melody Mart
Learning how to play an instrument is just the beginning! Melody Mart understands the importance of a well-rounded music education and the journey to acquire that education. That's why we now offer an opportunity to explore a variety of other classes, workshops, groups, and events as part of your musical journey. Our group programs provide an enriching environment where students can develop their skills, collaborate with others, and gain new experiences that go beyond private
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2 min read


What is Private Instruction at Melody Mart?
Melody Mart stands out from other music shops through its comprehensive approach to music education, exceptional community focus, and unwavering commitment to quality. Unlike other music stores, we offer a wide range of tailored programs, including our unique exploratory program, private lessons, and group classes, all led by passionate and experienced instructors. Our inclusive environment and personalized customer service create a welcoming space for musicians of all ages a
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2 min read


Wind Choir at Melody Mart
Are you a woodwind or brass enthusiast looking for a unique musical experience? Melody Mart’s Wind Choir program is designed just for you! Our Wind Choir offers a fantastic opportunity for musicians of all ages and skill levels to come together, create beautiful harmonies, and enhance their musical abilities in a supportive and engaging group setting. What is Wind Choir? Wind Choir is an ensemble dedicated to woodwind and brass players. It brings together flutes, clarinets, s
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2 min read


Melody Mart's Exploratory Program
Choosing the right instrument is a crucial step in a musician's journey, especially for beginners. At Melody Mart, we understand that finding the perfect fit can sometimes be a challenge. That's why we're excited to introduce our **Exploratory Program**—a unique opportunity designed to help you or your youngster discover the instrument that truly resonates with you. What is the Exploratory Program? The Exploratory Program is a specially designed, one-hour session where you or
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2 min read


Melody Mart's Casual Instruction Program
Are you curious about private music instruction but not ready to commit to a long-term program? Do you want to explore a new instrument or music topic without the pressure of regular lessons? Melody Mart has the perfect solution for you with our Casual Instruction Program. What is the Casual Instruction Program? Our Casual Instruction Program is designed for those who want to experience the benefits of private music lessons on a flexible, drop-in basis. This program allows yo
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2 min read


Music Theory Game Time: A Competitive yet Educational Group Program
Music Theory Game Time transforms learning music theory into an engaging experience by reimagining classic games
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3 min read


Bucket Drumming: Awesome Drummers ONLY
Bucket Drumming turns everyday objects into musical instruments. We host classes twice a month
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3 min read


Help! I Think I Want to Go to Music School but I am not sure what to do or think!
Welcome to the club! At some point in many musicians' lives, we wonder if this is the career for us. Are we ready for it? This is...
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4 min read


# 27 Getting to know your Vibrato.
Welcome to DK's Tips and Tricks! I'm DK, one of the instructors at Melody Mart, as well as the head band and orchestra guy for the store. One of my standout qualities is my proficiency in playing around 13 instruments, with expertise in providing private instruction for 11 of them. You'll often hear myself or others affectionately label me as a "band nerd," and that truly encapsulates who I am. Over the past 15 years, I've accumulated a wealth of knowledge through formal edu
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2 min read


Why can't we eat before we play?
PLEASE, STOP CHOMPIN' ON FOOD RIGHT BEFORE A LESSON; STOP DRINKING SUGARY DRINKS BEFORE PLAYING AND CLEAN YOUR INSTRUMENT. Seriously, we mean it! Eating before playing any musical instrument, but especially wind and brass instrument, can cause a variety things to your instrument but also your own well being. Us music teachers, aren't telling you to stop eating before you play just because we can literally smell what you ate-- which is gross within itself-- but as well for you
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5 min read


🎵 Music Instruction Scholarship🎵
All new & current students, you could be a recipient of Three Months of Music Instruction at Melody Mart! We at Melody Mart collaborated with the Palumbo Family Foundation! The Palumbo Family is generously awarding 5 fortunate individuals with 3 months of music instruction here at Melody Mart! How to Apply: All you have to do is share Your Musical Story and Why It Matters: Write a concise one-page essay sharing the essence of your musical journey. What ignited your love for
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2 min read


New to the World of Band? Why You Should Rent to Own Your Instrument
I'm DK, one of the instructors at Melody Mart, as well as the head band and orchestra guy for the store. One of my standout qualities is...
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3 min read
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