Grand Opening Of New Music School

Garden City residents have long been without their own music school, until now. September marked the opening of the new Music Academy of Garden City. The new facility is located at 291 Nassau Boulevard South, right next to the Garden City Dance Studio. The Music Academy specializes in instrumental and vocal instruction.

Owned and operated by brothers John and Peter Coco, both gentlemen have extensive teaching experience and strong ties to the community. John Coco currently teaches at the Waldorf School and is an adjunct professor at Nassau Community College. Peter Coco served as Graduate teaching assistant at SUNY Purchase College, and is a regular faculty member at FOTA's (Friends of the Arts) summer jazz clinics. Both brothers hold a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in music, and hold their staff to equally high standards.

"This is something that we've wanted to do for quite a while, something we've invested a lot of time and effort in," says co-owner Peter Coco. "Until now, Garden City has not had its own music school."

When asked about the school, John Coco states, "Our goal from the conception of the Music Academy was to provide the most dynamic learning environment available. Every factor was tediously considered from the kind of pianos we use, to the instructors and materials we offer. We are very serious about education here, and I think that our students understand and appreciate that."

Although the Music Academy is already open for business, the Grand Opening celebration is on Sunday, October 22nd, during the Nassau Blvd. Street Fair. Peter Coco says, "The street fair is going to be a great event for the community. We are having a full 17 piece big band perform and then a jazz quartet featuring some wonderful musicians. We are very excited about it."

In addition to musical instruction, the Music Academy offers many services such as instrument sales and repairs, accessories, and "Mommy and Me" classes designed for 3-5 years olds. They also specialize in preparation for NYSSMA festivals and college auditions. If you would like to find out more about the Music Academy, call 516-292-2777 or go to www.musicacademyofgc.com.