Business Details
7 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Lessons Provider in Jacksonville, Gainesville & Orlando
Shining Star Music Academy was founded on the belief that music education should be accessible, convenient, and transformative for both students and families. As a parent myself, I understand the challenges of balancing busy schedules while providing enriching activities for children. Our academy eliminates the stress of transportation by bringing experienced, background-checked instructors directly to your home in Jacksonville, Gainesville, and Orlando, Florida, while also offering comprehensive online lessons for those outside our driving areas. With over 20 years of teaching experience and a team of accomplished musicians, we prioritize personalized lesson plans that balance technical fundamentals with students' creative interests. Our structured membership plans include weekly one-on-one lessons, unlimited group classes, recital preparation, and performance opportunities designed to build confidence and musical proficiency. We emphasize a positive, engaging learning environment where students of all ages can thrive, whether they're exploring piano, guitar, voice, violin, or drums. Our commitment to quality extends to providing all necessary training materials and organizing community performances that connect students with local audiences. By combining convenience with professional instruction, we aim to make music education a joyful, integral part of every family's routine.
Services
Piano Lessons
Guitar Lessons
Voice Lessons
Online Music Lessons
Violin Lessons
Details
- Year established: 2019
Highlights and features
- We offer in-home and online lessons with background-checked, experienced instructors.
- Our membership plans include weekly lessons, group classes, and recital preparation.
- Personalized lesson plans balance technical fundamentals with students' creative interests.
- We serve Jacksonville, Gainesville, Orlando, and online with flexible scheduling options.
- Community performances and events foster student confidence and engagement.
Payment methods
- Cash, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments
What people say
Boosted confidence
Great teachers
Fun for them
Positive learning environment
Convenient schedule
Services
Piano Lessons
Our piano lessons cater to students of all skill levels, focusing on technical proficiency, music theory, and expressive playing. Instructors adapt teaching methods to individual learning styles, whether students prefer classical compositions or modern arrangements. Lessons emphasize proper hand positioning, sight-reading, and performance preparation while maintaining an engaging atmosphere that fosters musical growth.
Guitar Lessons
From basic chords to advanced techniques, our guitar lessons cover acoustic, electric, and classical styles. Students learn rhythm patterns, fingerpicking, and song interpretation while developing proper posture and hand mechanics. Instructors incorporate popular music selections alongside fundamental exercises to maintain student engagement and measurable progress over time.
Voice Lessons
Designed for singers aged four and up, these lessons focus on breath control, pitch accuracy, and vocal health. Students explore various genres while learning proper warm-up techniques, resonance control, and lyrical interpretation. Instructors emphasize building confidence through performance preparation and constructive feedback in a supportive learning environment.
Online Music Lessons
Our online program offers live, interactive lessons with the same quality instruction as in-person sessions. Using video conferencing tools, students access weekly lessons and group classes covering theory, sight-reading, and composition. The platform supports real-time feedback while maintaining the flexibility of learning from home with recorded practice resources available between sessions.
Violin Lessons
These lessons develop proper bowing technique, finger placement, and posture for violin students. Instructors incorporate classical repertoire alongside contemporary pieces to maintain student interest while building technical foundation. Lessons include ear training exercises and ensemble playing opportunities through our online group classes and community performances.
People
Katrina Mendez
Founder & Director
A Berklee College of Music and NYU graduate with 20+ years teaching experience, Katrina established Shining Star Music Academy to provide accessible, high-quality music education. Her leadership focuses on personalized instruction and community engagement through performances and events.
Questions
Do you offer both in-person and online music lessons?
Yes, we provide in-home lessons in Jacksonville, Gainesville, and Orlando, Florida, with comprehensive online instruction available for families outside our driving areas using video conferencing tools.
What instruments can students learn through your program?
We offer piano, guitar, voice, violin, and drum lessons with experienced instructors specializing in each instrument's technical and creative aspects for students of all ages.
How do your membership plans work?
Our plans include weekly one-on-one lessons, unlimited group classes, recital preparation, and performance opportunities. Prices range from $175-$320 monthly depending on lesson duration and frequency.
Are there opportunities for students to perform publicly?
Yes, we organize two annual recitals and multiple community performances throughout the year, including events for senior audiences and outdoor gatherings to showcase student progress.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
All instructors undergo background checks and possess extensive performance and teaching experience. Our director holds music degrees from Berklee College of Music and NYU Steinhardt.
Can I try a lesson before committing to regular sessions?
We offer a free first lesson and assessment after a 15-minute discovery call to discuss goals and ensure our program matches your student's needs and learning style.
Videos
Reviews (17)
Kristy Bickmeyer
Oct 23, 2021
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We love this company for music lessons! We take piano and guitar and love the convenience of being able to stay home for lessons. All of the teachers have been fabulous!
Danika Oliverio
Jul 15, 2021
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We have had a fantastic experience with Shining Star Music. Katrina told me when we started that she wanted each family to be ecstatic with their teacher, and she made that "good fit" a priority. I told her my goal was to make sure the kids thoroughly enjoyed playing music, for the pure fun of it. Sure enough, that has been our experience. My kids absolutely love their piano and voice teacher, who is a music education major.
They have learned SO much in one year, it amazes me. They look forward to lessons, and I don't have to remind them to practice, they just do it, because they enjoy it that much. To say I'm pleased is kind of an understatement! We are starting our second year with Shining Star, and we are all looking forward to it.
They have learned SO much in one year, it amazes me. They look forward to lessons, and I don't have to remind them to practice, they just do it, because they enjoy it that much. To say I'm pleased is kind of an understatement! We are starting our second year with Shining Star, and we are all looking forward to it.
Danika Oliverio
Jun 30, 2021
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We have had a fantastic experience with Shining Star Music. Katrina told me when we started that she wanted each family to be ecstatic with their teacher, and she made that good fit a priority. I told her my goal was to make sure the kids thoroughly enjoyed playing music, for the pure fun of it. Sure enough, that has been our experience. My kids absolutely love their piano and voice teacher, who is a music education major.
They have learned SO much in one year, it amazes me. They look forward to lessons, and I dont have to remind them to practice, they just do it, because they enjoy it that much. To say Im pleased is kind of an understatement! We are starting our second year with Shining Star, and we are all looking forward to it.
They have learned SO much in one year, it amazes me. They look forward to lessons, and I dont have to remind them to practice, they just do it, because they enjoy it that much. To say Im pleased is kind of an understatement! We are starting our second year with Shining Star, and we are all looking forward to it.
Lisa Magary
Jun 23, 2021
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We love Ms Katrina and Mr Kristian. They love teaching music with a kind and patient touch. My kids have enjoyed their lessons over the years. They have gained so much knowledge and skill.
Helen
Feb 20, 2021
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We found Shining Star Music Academy because we wanted an in-home piano teacher for our kids. It has been a blessing to our family especially during the pandemic when everything closed. Our kids enjoy their piano classes and are developing new skills. The teachers are patient and supportive. We are glad to have found Shining Star Music Academy.
Greg Stitt
Dec 19, 2020
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I'm a middle-aged, long-time instrumentalist who decided to try singing as something new. I've studied vocals with Katrina for two years now and am thrilled with the progress I've made during that time. I went from refusing to ever sing in public to receiving compliments from strangers during live performances. I've studied music my entire life with numerous teachers, and based on that experience can give my highest recommendation to Shining Star.
Lora Levett
Apr 23, 2020
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We started piano lessons in August with Shining Star - it's awesome so far! I have a 6 year old and a 4 year old, and they both are learning so much - it's really cool to watch and help them practice. Katrina is awesome - she came to the house to do the initial assessment, and the kids loved her. My six year old wrote a song with her (really simple song) the first day and he was thrilled! She also was really flexible with my 4 year old, and we started her knowing she might have to switch to shorter lessons or hold off a few months - but it seems to be going well so far.
Our teacher, Alexia, is awesome, too! The kids adore her, and she is really great with them. They especially love the 'warm ups' where she plays with them and they can play whatever they want - it's super cute. I should say, too, that our schedule was not easy to work with - my husband and I both work full time, and Katrina and Alexia were able to do our first preference of time - which makes our lives so much easier. I'm so excited to have my kids in lessons with such great teachers!
Our teacher, Alexia, is awesome, too! The kids adore her, and she is really great with them. They especially love the 'warm ups' where she plays with them and they can play whatever they want - it's super cute. I should say, too, that our schedule was not easy to work with - my husband and I both work full time, and Katrina and Alexia were able to do our first preference of time - which makes our lives so much easier. I'm so excited to have my kids in lessons with such great teachers!
Lora Levett
Sep 16, 2019
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We started piano lessons in August with Shining Star - it's awesome so far!! I have a 6 year old and a 4 year old, and they both are learning so much - it's really cool to watch and help them practice. Katrina is awesome - she came to the house to do the initial assessment, and the kids loved her. My six year old wrote a song with her (really simple song) the first day and he was thrilled! She also was really flexible with my 4 year old, and we started her knowing she might have to switch to shorter lessons or hold off a few months - but it seems to be going well so far.
Our teacher, Alexia, is awesome, too! The kids adore her, and she is really great with them. They especially love the 'warm ups' where she plays with them and they can play whatever they want - it's super cute. I should say, too, that our schedule was not easy to work with - my husband and I both work full time, and Katrina and Alexia were able to do our first preference of time - which makes our lives so much easier. I'm so excited to have my kids in lessons with such great teachers!
Our teacher, Alexia, is awesome, too! The kids adore her, and she is really great with them. They especially love the 'warm ups' where she plays with them and they can play whatever they want - it's super cute. I should say, too, that our schedule was not easy to work with - my husband and I both work full time, and Katrina and Alexia were able to do our first preference of time - which makes our lives so much easier. I'm so excited to have my kids in lessons with such great teachers!
Amanda McDaniel
Jun 20, 2019
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My 14 yr old took piano lessons for two years at a well known local business, but we had to take a couple months off due to schedule conflicts. We decided somewhere closer to home would be more convenient and inquired about lessons with Katrina. She did love her old music teacher, but has already mentioned that she enjoys Katrina's teaching technique better. I've also started piano lessons for my awesome and bright, but very active, short attention spanned 8 yr old with Katrina.
I wasn't quite sure how well it would go since it's hard to keep her attention. I was quite surprised at how much interest she showed during her lesson! It was awesome to see her so focused and interested in learning, and I was so proud at how much she learned just from the first time:) Katrina seems to work really well with different ages and personalities.
I wasn't quite sure how well it would go since it's hard to keep her attention. I was quite surprised at how much interest she showed during her lesson! It was awesome to see her so focused and interested in learning, and I was so proud at how much she learned just from the first time:) Katrina seems to work really well with different ages and personalities.
Michelle Seibold
Apr 15, 2019
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Katrina is working with my son (16 yrs old) and myself who are at two different levels with different goals and she has the ability to see how to work with each of us. I am looking forward to continuing on this journey with her and my son is excited too.
Amanda Lariz- McDaniel
Apr 02, 2019
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My 14 yr old took piano lessons for two years at a well known local business, but we had to take a couple months off due to schedule conflicts. We decided somewhere closer to home would be more convenient and inquired about lessons with Katrina. She did love her old music teacher, but has already mentioned that she enjoys Katrina's teaching technique better. I've also started piano lessons for my awesome and bright, but very active, short attention spanned 8 yr old with Katrina.
I wasn't quite sure how well it would go since it's hard to keep her attention. I was quite surprised at how much interest she showed during her lesson! It was awesome to see her so focused and interested in learning, and I was so proud at how much she learned just from the first time: Katrina seems to work really well with different ages and personalities. I definitely recommend Shining Star Music Academy.
I wasn't quite sure how well it would go since it's hard to keep her attention. I was quite surprised at how much interest she showed during her lesson! It was awesome to see her so focused and interested in learning, and I was so proud at how much she learned just from the first time: Katrina seems to work really well with different ages and personalities. I definitely recommend Shining Star Music Academy.
Marlene
Great introductory lesson with Katrina. She asked good questions to evaluate what I already know and then wrote up a lesson plan for me to start on. Since I'm returning to piano after many years off, there is so much I've forgotten and need to start over on. And yet other things that I still remember. That makes a lot of pieces to put together to keep it interesting.
Lena
My daughter loves Katrina. Her best teacher yet. Katrina is very professional yet friendly. Easy to work with.
Chrissy Z.
I just had my first lesson with Katrina and I ALREADY know she's an amazing teacher, approachable, very knowledgable, and does an excellent job balancing explaining WHY I'm doing something, HOW to do it, and then DOING it. I'm excited to continue workings with her and got lucky to have found the right person the first time.
Steve M.
What a perfect match for my daughter. Her teaching has boosted my daughters confidence & spirit. Katrina is very patient & flexible, I highly recommend her!
Katie
Katrina is an amazing teacher who knows so much about the many subjects she instructs. I'm blessed to have found such a kind, amazing teacher.
Elliana
Katrina does a GREAT job connecting with our daughter and helping her both play the piano and sing. We love that she's teaching her the technical aspects (notation) as well as playing by ear. Thank you, Katrina!