Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Music Education and Instruments in Saint Paul
Cadenza Music has been a cornerstone of the Saint Paul community since 1974, dedicated to fostering musical growth and excellence. Founded by Eugene Monnig and Dorothy Sauser-Monnig, the business was acquired in 2019 by long-time employee Dan Lehn, who continues its legacy of quality service. Our experienced team offers music lessons in over 20 instruments, supported by educators with advanced degrees and professional performance backgrounds. We provide top-tier instrument leasing programs with free maintenance and exchanges, ensuring accessibility for growing musicians. Our repair shop, staffed by seasoned technicians, has maintained instruments for local and touring professionals for decades. The retail division curates high-quality instruments and accessories from trusted brands like Yamaha and Amati.Through Cadenza Kids, we deliver research-based early childhood music classes that nurture creativity and developmental skills. Studio 20 hosts community events, recitals, and workshops, reinforcing our commitment to musical engagement. With quadrupled facility space since our founding, we combine historical expertise with modern offerings. Our staff's collective decades of experience in music education and retail establish us as Twin Cities authorities. Transparent operations include clear leasing terms and personalized customer support. This enduring dedication to musical excellence and community enrichment defines our trusted reputation.
Services
Music Lessons
Instrument Leasing
Repair Services
Cadenza Kids Classes
Retail Sales
Sheet Music
Guitar Accessories
Violin Accessories
Woodwind Repair
Event Hosting
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer music lessons with 30+ instructors holding advanced degrees and professional performance experience.
- Our instrument leasing program includes free maintenance, exchanges, and optional damage insurance.
- Cadenza Kids provides research-based early childhood music curriculum developed by certified educators.
- Professional repair technicians with 20+ years' experience service instruments from student to professional levels.
- Studio 20 hosts community music events, workshops, and recitals for all ages.
What people say
Well-stocked store
Friendly staff
Professional repairs
Great music programs
Knowledgeable teachers
Services
Music Lessons
Private lessons available for 20+ instruments including piano, strings, brass, woodwinds, and voice. Instructors hold advanced music degrees and maintain active performance careers in the Twin Cities. Curriculum accommodates all skill levels from beginners to professional musicians seeking refinement.
Instrument Leasing
Flexible leasing program with free maintenance, size exchanges, and optional damage coverage. Instruments professionally maintained by repair technicians before rental. Available for school-year or summer terms with preferred purchase pricing after lease completion.
Instrument Repair
Professional repair services for brass, woodwinds, strings, and fretted instruments. Technicians with 20+ years' experience service student to professional-grade equipment. Specialized repairs include ultrasonic cleaning, re-fretting, and orchestral instrument restoration.
Cadenza Kids
Family music classes for infants through preschoolers using research-based curriculum. Activities develop musicality through singing, movement, and simple instrument exploration. Programs include caregiver participation and at-home learning materials to foster lifelong music appreciation.
Retail Sales
Curated selection of new and used instruments from Yamaha, Amati, and Alvarez. Comprehensive accessories including strings, reeds, and performance gear. Extensive sheet music inventory featuring educational materials and special order capabilities for specific repertoire needs.
People
Dan Lehn
Owner
Dan Lehn purchased Cadenza Music in 2019 after 20+ years as key employee. Maintains original service standards while expanding community programs. Active in local music scene and advocate for accessible music education.
Christina Pawlowski-Lehn
Founder
Christina founded Cadenza Kids in 2023 using Musikgarten curriculum. Professional singer with background in yoga and mindfulness education. Develops early childhood music programs combining traditional and contemporary teaching methods.
Scott Mims
Repair Technician
Woodwind and brass specialist with 20+ years' experience. Completed formal training at Southeast Technical College. Manages repair shop operations while maintaining high standards established since 1974.
Adrien Logsdon
Voice Instructor
Voice teacher with BA in Musical Theatre from Guildford School of Acting. Former performer with experience teaching acting and audition techniques. Manages Cadenza Kids administrative operations.
Andy Denny
String Repair
Orchestral string repair specialist graduated with honors from Southeast Technical College. Experience building banjos at Nechville Musical Products. Provides violin repair and restoration services for professional musicians.
Questions
What music lesson options are available for beginners?
We offer private lessons in 20+ instruments for all ages with instructors tailored to beginner needs.
Do you provide instrument rental insurance?
Yes, our leasing program includes optional damage coverage up to the instrument's purchase price.
Are early childhood music classes suitable for toddlers?
Cadenza Kids classes specifically designed for ages 0-5 with caregiver participation and developmentally appropriate activities.
What repair services do you offer for professional musicians?
Full-service repair shop handles maintenance and restoration for professional-grade brass, woodwinds, and string instruments.
Can I purchase sheet music online?
We participate in Hal Leonard's affiliate program for online sheet music purchases with direct delivery.
Do you host public music events?
Studio 20 features recitals, workshops, and local artist performances open to the general public.
Reviews (5)
Bandicoot Thundersnatch
Nov 14, 2021
Report
Lovvveeee this place. only been in a couple times, but the folks here are always so nice, and the variety of inventory is siiiiick!
Sathert
Apr 29, 2021
Report
Really nice people to work with. I just got an Alvarez AP-66 guitar from them and the instrument is beautiful, was set up just right. Wonderful place!
Karen Spitzfaden
Dec 25, 2019
Report
Do not take large instruments to be repaired or tuned up here. My tuba was scratched during a routine cleaning, and I deeply regret entrusting this place to care for my most important possession.
Mary S.
Feb 09, 2019
Report
This place is amazing! i took lessons here when i was a kid and still stop in for supplies when i'm in the twin cities. highly recommend cadenza!
Mitch Grussing
Jun 15, 2017
Report
This store is a gem! As a piano teacher, it's nice to have such a reliably well stocked store available when I'm picking up materials on my way to work. The staff are super friendly and helpful, too.
