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In June, Cheri presented at the Minnesota Music Teachers State Convention, “Teach Boogie Woogie Piano,” a curriculum developed at Sykes Piano Studio. The presentation concluded with this boogie woogie mashup from our 2020 Recital by young student Dana. At our studio, Boogie Woogie piano is a winner with students of all ages and levels!  

Well, I’ve never done this before! The Coffee Ladies did not want to miss their annual Christmas Carol Sing, so  I played and sang, while each of them, on mute, sang from their respective living rooms!  Okay then!  It was great to see all their smiling faces.  We’re hoping to do this again in-person in … Continue reading “Zoom Carol Sing–This is something new!”

Standard equipment when you are teaching online: an overhead webcam, screen-shared on Zoom. Students can see how it is played. I can also easily record a video and send to you! The beauty of technology….

Hana is preparing a Boogie Woogie mashup for our upcoming virtual recital. We’ve been touring through various blues/boogie boogie styles all year. Here’s her cover art for her medley!

An interesting assignment:  Hits from the Decades 1880-2020!  The law firm Briggs and Morgan was celebrating 140 years in practice.  The event was at Windows on Minnesota, atop the IDS Tower in downtown Minneapolis.  Nice view!

‘Tis the Season for gigging.  Eleven engagements in ten days.  Head down and powering through!

What a gorgeous chapel for a wedding Nov. 2!  Lakewood Cemetery near Lake Harriet.

Sykes Piano Studio’s annual Spring Recital, celebrating the year’s accomplishments, this year at Rose Arbor Senior Community in Maple Grove on May 19, 2019.    Twenty-one performers graced the stage!

In Concert: Wild Honey and the Locusts (Cheri Sykes’ gospel/jazz combo), Sunday, April 7, 3:00pm. Favorite hymns and spirituals, styled in Stevie Wonder funk, jazz standard, latin salsa, Basie swing, pop ballad, and barn-burner black gospel. Expect some high energy inspiration! First Presbyterian Church of Hastings, 602 Vermillion Street. Free will offering. Hope to see … Continue reading “Wild Honey in Concert”

You, The Parent, are the Secret Weapon towards piano success!  These blogs can help you achieve your full potential.   As you probably know, consistent home practice is key to piano progress!   How can you ensure successful practicing at home?   Here are 5 Tips for you:   Set a regular practice schedule, 5-6 … Continue reading “Are you a Newbie Piano Parent? These Tips are for you!”