Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Music School in Charlotte Since 1964
Southern Park Music School has been dedicated to music education since 1964, offering personalized instruction for students of all ages and abilities. Our mission emphasizes creativity, excellence, and lifelong musical growth through tailored lessons, ensemble experiences, and performance opportunities. With a faculty of experienced performers and educators, we provide instruction across piano, strings, woodwinds, and voice in state-of-the-art facilities designed for optimal acoustics.Our eight private studios feature grand pianos, and our recital hall hosts monthly performances during the school year. Founded in Charlotte, North Carolina, we maintain a legacy of inclusivity, welcoming students regardless of background while celebrating over 50 years of nurturing prizewinning musicians and professional artists.
Services
Piano Lessons
Voice Lessons
Strings Lessons
Woodwinds Lessons
Saxophone Lessons
Clarinet Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We have over 60 years of experience in music education.
- Our studios are custom-built for optimal acoustics.
- Faculty members hold advanced music degrees and industry certifications.
- We host monthly recitals in our professional recital hall.
- Students receive personalized instruction on high-quality instruments.
Services
Piano Lessons
Private piano lessons for all skill levels using grand pianos in acoustically optimized studios. Our instructors employ classical, jazz, and contemporary methods to develop technical proficiency and musical expression. Students gain performance experience through monthly recitals and competitive festival preparation.
Voice Lessons
Comprehensive vocal instruction covering classical, operatic, and contemporary styles. Faculty members prepare students for solo performances, choral participation, and professional auditions. Lessons focus on breath control, pitch accuracy, and repertoire development tailored to individual goals.
Strings Lessons
Instruction in violin, viola, and cello with emphasis on technique and musical interpretation. Our faculty includes symphony orchestra performers who guide students through classical repertoire and ensemble playing. Suzuki method integration available for younger learners.
People
Dr. Michael Lehtinen
School Director
DMA from Eastman School of Music with 30+ years teaching experience. Directed the school since 2006 and designed its acoustically optimized facility. Organist at St. Stephens United Methodist Church.
Dr. Amy Harris
Piano Instructor
DMA from University of North Carolina with 20+ years teaching piano. Nationally certified instructor specializing in Suzuki method and music theory. Active performer in Charlotte's classical music scene.
Sharon Stricklin
Piano Instructor
40 years teaching experience with degrees from Michigan State University. Former choral director and accompanist. Specializes in AP Music Theory and beginner instruction.
Dr. Gregory Thompson
Piano Instructor
DMA from University of South Carolina with international performance experience. Collaborative pianist with expertise in classical and contemporary repertoire for solo and ensemble settings.
Janice Williams
Voice Instructor
20+ years teaching voice with performance experience in Opera Carolina and local churches. Co-founder of 'In The Mood' trio. Specializes in vocal technique and performance preparation.
Questions
What instruments do you teach?
We offer instruction in piano, voice, violin, viola, cello, oboe, flute, saxophone, and clarinet with specialized faculty for each instrument.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! We host monthly recitals in our professional recital hall and prepare students for festivals, competitions, and professional auditions.
What teaching methods do you use?
Our instructors combine classical training with modern techniques. The Suzuki method is incorporated for string and piano lessons, especially with younger students.
Do you offer lessons for beginners?
Absolutely. Our faculty specializes in teaching all skill levels, including complete beginners. Many instructors have specific experience with early childhood music education.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Our faculty includes performers with DMA, MM, and BM degrees. Many hold advanced certifications and have professional performance experience in orchestras and opera companies.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Jennifer Ahmed
Jun 07, 2019
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This music school has a very relaxed and friendly environment but they also ensure the kids work and learn. They have multiple recitals per year and they prepare students for competition if you opt in to that. Far superior to any other schools I've looked into in the area.
S. P.
Mar 15, 2018
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It's around three years since I started learning Violin. As a begginer, it was very challenging as I didn't have any experience in music. I would like to thank my violin teacher Vasily Gorkovoy gor his guidance and patience. The entire staff/teachers are very cooperative. I would definitely recommend this music school.
Katharine Lucas Monk
May 23, 2017
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Thank you to Dr. Michael for hosting the recent Adult Studio for his adult piano students. I like that you can play for the group of adult students ... or just listen. His instruction is always patient, supportive and interesting. I always come away with new tips to help me in the future. And I appreciate the opportunity to socialize with the other adult students after we play. Thank you!
Pamela Stamper
Oct 11, 2016
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We really enjoyed seeing and hearing our granddaughter play the baby grand piano displaying her improved skills. Its hard to believe that she just began taking lessons in January! Her excellent teacher, Sharon Strickland has inspired her to push herself and continues to challenge her.
