The Music Studio
  • LESSONS
  • PIANO RETREAT FOR ADULTS
  • CHRISTMAS PIANO & STRINGS BOOK BLAST
  • JUNIOR REGIONAL ORCHESTRA PREP
  • HOMESCHOOL EXPLORERS
  • COMPLIMENTARY TRYOUT LESSON
  • HARP PROGRAM
  • PIANO CAMPS
  • The Blog
  • SUPPLEMENTAL MUSIC GUIDE
  • GIFT CARDS
  • APPAREL
  • REQUEST INFO
  • FAQ
  • TESTIMONIALS
  • EMPLOYMENT
  • CURRENT STUDENTS
  • VIDEOS
  • PHOTO GALLERY
  • FREE TRIAL LESSON
  • MAKE UP LESSON CALENDARS
  • PRIMER TEST - PART I
  • PRIMER TEST - PART II
  • PRIMER TEST - PART III
  • PRIMER TEST - PART IV
  • PRIMER TEST - PART V
Imagine your child sitting down to play music...
​just because they want to.
What if your child could easily master music faster, play with confidence, and truly love their lessons?
TRY A COMPLIMENTARY LESSON

Eliminate Practice Battles. Start Seeing Real Progress.
There's A Better Way to Learn. Designed for Faster Progress and Lasting Success.

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More Than a Lesson—A Music Learning System

Our structured approach gives students the time and tools to thrive.
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Fluent Readers, Fearless Players

Students gain strong sight-reading skills, so they can play anything.
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Independent, Assertive Learners

They take ownership of the process, building confidence in every step.
TRY A COMPLIMENTARY LESSON

Why Are So Many Kids Quitting Music?
Because old-school lessons don't work. Most students stop before they ever learn to read music. Ours don't.

Here's What's Wrong:
  • Focus on Repetition - Traditional 30-minute weekly lessons prioritize the repetition of what's familiar ("practice") and memorization, over developing the ability to read on sight.
  • Teacher Dependency - Instead of being able to start a new song on their own, Students become used to the teacher first playing/showing the song to them.
  • Slow Progress – Traditional 30-minute weekly lessons don’t allow enough time for real mastery.
  • Poor Practice Habits - Traditional 30-minute weekly lessons don't incorporate supervised practice time. Students are expected to practice without accountability.
  • Weak Reading Skills – Students struggle when they can’t truly read music fluently.  Playing becomes a tedious chore, rather than a creative, fun outlet of expression.
  • Lack of Ownership – If students rely on the teacher for every answer, they never learn how to learn.
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Our Proven Accelerated Approach: Musical Fluency Starts Here
​✔ Students progress through books twice as fast
✔ Build strong sight-reading and theory foundations
✔ Learn independently — no “hovering parent” required
✔ Stay in lessons longer, grow confidence faster
  • ​Semi-private/small group Instruction for beginning through advanced levels, ages 6 to 18​
  • Longer, 60-minute weekly lessons
  • Practice is built into the lesson to eliminate practice problems and struggling at home​
  • Students move at their perfect pace
  • Students move through their lesson books in half the time they would with traditional private instruction
  • Sight reading becomes easy and natural
  • Home practice is virtually eliminated, as most of the practice is accomplished during the lesson
  • ​Recitals!
Our group program is the core of musical fluency for students at the Beginning through Intermediate levels, with Master Classes and Private Lessons available later (Advanced levels) to build repertoire and performance skills—on piano or any of our other instruments. For students who haven’t yet chosen an instrument, we highly recommend starting with piano, as it lays a strong foundation for reading, rhythm, and overall musical understanding.
Step By Step: How It Works
1. Try a Free Class
Join in on one of our Accelerated Classes to sample how the program works first-hand. 

2. Start Your Musical Journey with weekly Accelerated Group Classes
Learn the language of music the smart way. Our Accelerated Program is open to all instruments and designed to build strong music reading, rhythm, and fluency skills from the very first lesson. If a student hasn’t yet chosen an instrument, we highly recommend starting with piano, as it offers the most accessible introduction to musical patterns, coordination, and reading. We encourage beginning through intermediate students to enroll in the Accelerated Program until they successfully complete their core lesson book series. Accelerated Classes meet once weekly for 60 minutes.
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3. Add On the Master Class Program or a Private Lesson (Optional)
Although our Accelerated Piano Program is beneficial to students of any level (even advanced), once they've completed their method book series successfully, students are eligible to enroll in master classes and private one-on-one sessions of any instrument.  Master Classe sessions are 60 minutes and scheduled quarterly. Private lessons are offered weekly for 30 or 45 minutes.
Book A Complimentary Lesson
Should My Child Take Piano First?...And, Why Group?
Piano is the best foundation for music — it teaches reading in both clefs, develops coordination between brain, hands (and feet), and builds a strong understanding of rhythm, theory, and melody. Students who start with piano progress faster and become more fluent musicians, no matter what instrument they choose later.
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OK, but why GROUP?  ​In our 60-minute group classes, students move through a large volume of music each week — allowing them to develop strong sightreading skills right from the start. This approach helps students progress at twice the rate of private instruction, while learning more thoroughly. They don’t just play music — they learn to read fluently, set practice standards for themselves, and become confident, independent musicians who rely on the music rather than constant teacher direction. Not only is it the most effective way to begin any musical journey, these crucial foundational skills can ONLY be accomplished in a group setting. Keep reading!!
I'M READY TO TRY A FREE PIANO CLASS
Understanding Sightreading & Practice
Sightreading, or Sight "Playing", is the ability to pick up a new piece of music and play it fluently on the first try. It's a crucial skill that requires continuous development and exposure to new music because, by definition, you can only sightread a piece once.
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Practice is the repetition of familiar music. Practice is what happens after Sightreading.
The majority of parents enrolling their children in music lessons expect and accept that practice is part of the deal.  And, they are partly correct...practice is a necessary element in the study of music. Sightreading, however, is usually overlooked and avoided.  It's a skill that most think will develop naturally after many years of lessons, or that comes instinctively to "gifted" students, but will be a struggle for the majority.  

When it comes to "practice v. sightreading", practice is actually the skill that's more readily embraced and supported, since it's mentally easier to return to a song that is familiar than it is to begin a new one. Adding to that, sightreading is difficult to maintain and monitor, so traditional one-on-one private lessons naturally sway toward prioritizing practice-based learning over sightreading.  When learning is heavily dependent on practice, any signs of insufficient progress or diminishing interest are quickly blamed on the student: "They just aren't practicing enough at home!"

But, lack of progress, frustration, boredom, and home practice battles are not the fault of the student.
Music Reading Fluency: Balancing Sightreading & Practice
Practice and Sightreading are distinctly separate skills that must be developed simultaneously, equally, and continuously for a student to become musically fluent.  They must also be balanced, because emphasis on one will deteriorate the other.

At The Music Studio, with over 30 years of teaching experience, we understand the importance of balancing sightreading and practice. The unique structure of our 60-minute Accelerated Piano Classes ensure that students spend the needed amount of time sightreading a variety of pieces, but also practicing their favorites.
We welcome the chance to show you our program and how our tailored lessons guarantee personalized attention, catering to each student's unique learning style and pace.  Your child will be able to confidently begin and play songs on their own, without dependence on someone to first show them!  And, most importantly, they'll be able to read music!  Whether you or your child have had a negative experience with music lessons in the past, or are eager to start a new musical journey, The Music Studio provides a solution for continuous growth and enjoyment, ensuring a lifelong love for music.
Book A Complimentary Tryout

Your Musical Journey With The Music Studio

​Learning the Language of Music
Though every student's reason for seeking lessons is unique, learning to play a musical instrument is a journey. Your child has embarked on a quest to learn another language - the language of music. To become truly fluent, a good deal of reading, writing, listening, theory, practice, and performing is needed. Progress isn't always linear. Like watching the stock market, their learning will be a series of peaks and valleys, and when the valleys hit, given time and patience, progress will again trend upward. Becoming musically fluent is great fun, and can provide a lifetime of enjoyment and sharing with others. But, as with anything worth achieving, playing a musical instrument takes some effort, and most especially...time.
It's a marathon, not a sprint.
Every Musical Path is Different
We don't yet know exactly what the path looks like for your child on their musical journey, but we're here to give them the tools and confidence they'll need for unlimited growth and lasting enjoyment of music. We're also here to make it easy! Our lesson format is carefully designed so students are unaware they're innately absorbing this amazing language, and simultaneously developing countless other valuable life skills.
Their Pace is the Best Pace
At The Music Studio, there's never pressure for a student to move into another group or level, but we do communicate and work closely with parents and students to guide them into the best possible learning situation for growth and success -- and, of course, fun! As your child progresses, there are opportunities to help keep them moving upward and excited for new challenges.
More About Our Programs for All Instruments
And What You Can Look Forward To
​The Accelerated Program, for Independent Learning and Sightreading
This is our 60-minute weekly lesson program, where all students begin! They're reading and playing music from the moment they sit down. Teachers carefully guide students forward through their lesson books in a way that promotes independence, high practice standards, and ownership of the learning process. Students are asked to "practice" a song until they feel they have it mastered, at which point they signal the teacher to evaluate and "pass" them to the next assignment. Continuous playing is encouraged the entire session, and songs must be played correctly (and checked) in order to move forward. From an outside perspective, lessons look much like a practice "lab"; however, there is constant conscious and subconscious instruction taking place, and all students are closely monitored for progress and have access to a teacher as much as they need during the hour.
TRY A FREE CLASS
Homeschool Explorers: Music Enrichment for Ages 7+
Looking for a creative and social enrichment option during the school day? Our Homeschool Explorers Program offers music discovery in a fun, low-pressure setting—perfect for homeschoolers ages 7 and up. Each 60-minute class blends rhythm games, hands-on instrument play, listening activities, and guided piano exploration to build confidence, creativity, and real musical skills. No experience needed—just a sense of curiosity and a love of learning!
More Info & Enrollment
The Master's Program, for Piano, Strings, & Band Instruments
Offered in combination with our weekly Accelerated Lessons—or as a stand-alone enrichment opportunity for experienced students—our Master Class Program is designed for those ready to go further with their music. Each quarterly session follows a collegiate-style format, where students perform in a small, supportive group, receive personalized feedback, explore ensemble playing, and walk away with a detailed summary of practice tips and next-step goals.

In addition to individual performance coaching, each session includes a focused area of study such as technique development, effective practice strategies, or deeper insight into a particular musical era, style, or composer. Whether you’re a current student or joining us just for the Master Class experience, this program is a powerful tool for accelerating progress, deepening musical understanding, and growing into a confident, independent musician.
I'D LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON THIS
The Advanced Program, for Exploring more Challenging Repertoire
Students in the Advanced Program attend two 60-minute lessons per week. There is a continuing emphasis on sightreading, but students have progressed to a reading level where we introduce short to medium-length classical works of the minor and major composers. At this level, we encourage students memorize and maintain a repertoire list, and consider performing in musical events.
I'D LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON THIS
​​Private Instruction, for All Instruments
Our Private Instruction Program combines the Accelerated Program (mandatory) with an additional 30-minute weekly one-to-one instructional session. Continuation in the Accelerated Program ensures sightreading skills continue to improve through advanced levels, while more challenging performance repertoire, technique, music theory, and performance skills are polished during the 30-minute private sessions. Students at this level should have completed the first 4 levels of their lesson books and are typically interested in being more immersed in their music, or want to pursue music at a competitive or collegiate level.
EXPLORE PRIVATE LESSONS AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS

"Every Great Performance Started with a First Lesson"
Choose an Instrument and Sign Up for Your Complimentary Tryout:

PIANO TRYOUT
HARP TRYOUT
VIOLIN, VIOLA, CELLO, BASS TRYOUT
BAND & PERCUSSION TRYOUT
GUITAR TRYOUT
VOICE TRYOUT
Or, Check Out Some of Our Other Music Programs:
HOMESCHOOL EXPLORERS
BEGINNING PIANO FOR ADULTS: ONE-DAY RETREATS
PIANO SUMMER CAMP
GIFT CARDS
Why Choose Us?
Why do our students learn faster than traditional studios, get better results, and don't lose interest in lessons?  Because we've spent over 30 years perfecting the formula for making amazing progress at any level, sticking with it, and becoming GREAT at reading and playing music!
​Fast progress – Learning at the student's pace with expert guidance.
For busy families - Flexible scheduling – Join weekly or drop-in classes.
Encouraging environment – No stress, just fun and success!
​Never boring - Students move through books at twice the speed of traditional lessons.
Music Fluency - Students develop strong reading skills so they can play any piece, not just what’s been spoon-fed.
Ownership of the learning process - Students take control of their own learning, making real progress between lessons.
Creative Energy - Lessons move at an exciting pace, with energy to keep them loving lessons and engaged for the long run.

Camaraderie - Opportunity for collaboration, ensembles, and sharing music.

What People Are Saying About The Music Studio

"The...Jazz Summer Camp started today...C. had to audition. He is the youngest musician here and there are about 500. The department dean and guitar professor came to me to say that he ranked 1st in his audition and was placed with the advanced group. Your studio has been a key part of his success. C. was able to keep up with the pace at this camp and do things others could not because of his piano background."
- Christian (Jun. 2025)
"No matter what age you are, you can learn to play the piano at the Music Studio.  A very pleasant atmosphere plus Susan is amazingly patient and accommodating.  Susan Flinn makes learning piano an absolute joy!  Her dedication and expertise help me progress steadily, and her love for music is contagious.  If you are seeking a piano teacher who truly cares about your growth look no further.  Susan Flinn is that teacher and the place to find her is The Music Studio."
- Violet W. (Nov. 2024)
"L had a great make-up lesson! Thank you so much. It’s so nice to be able to schedule a make-up lesson when conflicts arise. She loves her lessons and feels like she’s making progress."
-Kathryn P. (Jun. 2024)
"I simply cannot put into words how much my girls are absolutely LOVING the lessons. The gentle but challenging approach is exactly what they needed/wanted....They are seriously enjoying it so much and it feels so FUN to them. They are practicing soooo much every single day because it’s so fun. Cannot thank you enough for everything. It is the PERFECT fit for us. So so so thankful we found you."
-Heather S. (Oct. 2023)
"M. is really enjoying her lessons with you. She is more inspired by the few lessons thus far to want to learn more! I truly am appreciative of your time spent with her! She is finally enjoying piano again, which is so exciting for me to see!"
​- R.T. (Sept. 2023)
"Look no further because you will not find another music instruction company as fantastic and as dedicated as The Music Studio!! My son is now 18 years old and started taking piano lessons at TMS when he was six years old. He was recently accepted into the college of his choice to major in music and has received multiple, competitive music scholarships totaling tens of thousands of dollars!! The incredible patience, knowledge, experience, instruction, and dedication of the music teachers at TMS are unparalleled and I will be forever so grateful for their attention to my son’s music education which has provided him with such excellent piano skills and techniques to help him achieve his dreams. Thank you everyone at TMS!! :)" -Patty L. (Mar. 2023)
"I just wanted to send a HUGE thank you to you...I was able to hear Emily in her piano lesson yesterday and I was so happy to hear her progress with her lessons.  We are thrilled that the investment we made in getting her a new electronic piano has truly benefited her so much. Thank you also for stressing the fundamentals of music as well. It brings us joy to hear her play and see her enthusiasm when she gets to work on a new song."
- Erin (Jan. 2021)
​The best instructors!
​Our teaching staff comprises highly qualified professionals who possess extensive teaching and performing experience in many instruments. They are dedicated to providing top-notch music education to their students, and teaching is their primary profession, not just a side gig. Our instructors' passion for music education is evident in the personalized attention and tailored lesson plans they provide, helping each student develop a strong foundation in music theory, sight-reading, and performance skills.
​What's the best age to start Piano Lessons?
​​It's never too early, or too late, to expose your children to music. But, how do you know when they're ready for formal lessons, and will do well? Here are some signs to help guide you.
BEST AGE
​What's a lesson like?
​​​Take the mystery and anxiety out of starting lessons for the first time. Here's a glimpse into what goes on during a typical lesson, and how to take the next step.
TAKE A LOOK
​Do you offer Adult Piano Lessons?
​Indeed we do!  We find that so many adults missed out on the opportunity to learn piano, or they stopped their childhood lessons and wish they'd continued.  We love working with adult students, and helping them to start a new musical journey...or continue where they left off.  We put the same emphasis on building strong reading skills, confidence, independence, and balance that with effective practice and goal setting.  Lessons are relaxed, self-paced, and there's no pressure to play out loud!  Click here to read more about our Adult Piano Lesson Program!
PIANO FOR ADULTS
​Easy to join, flexible scheduling
There is no long-term commitment, and students may begin at any time during the year.  The classes are a dynamic mix of levels, and include new beginners, as well as more experienced players.  Students have the additional option of attending another class should they have a schedule conflict.
SEND ME INFORMATION
​Set up for success!
To ensure you and your child are set up for success from the very first lesson, we've developed a guide to help you with everything from choosing an instrument to managing practice time.
SUCCESS!
"My granddaughter has been taking piano lessons at The Music Studio for 4 years! She has progressed so well under the guidance of their wonderful program! I highly recommend taking piano lessons here. Wonderful atmosphere and wonderful people!"
- Kathy (Sept. 2019)
"I’ve always wanted to learn piano and when I saw that The Music Studio offers a class for adults, I jumped at the opportunity! The class is slow paced, the instructors are amazing and what I love most is it’s so affordable.  I receive one hour, weekly lessons for an amazing rate.  As a parent of 3 with other responsibilities it really is unbeatable! You get so much for the money."
- Rosalyn (March 2021)

Affiliations & Honors

We Would Love to Have You Visit Soon!

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EMAIL: [email protected]
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PHONE: ​(540) 659-0506 (call/text)
LOCATION:
​300 Garrisonville Road
Suite 202
Stafford, VA 22554
HOURS:
​Visiting Hours: BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Phone Hours: M-F 10:00am to 5:00pm
Teaching Hours: M-Th 3:00pm - 7:30pm
  • LESSONS
  • PIANO RETREAT FOR ADULTS
  • CHRISTMAS PIANO & STRINGS BOOK BLAST
  • JUNIOR REGIONAL ORCHESTRA PREP
  • HOMESCHOOL EXPLORERS
  • COMPLIMENTARY TRYOUT LESSON
  • HARP PROGRAM
  • PIANO CAMPS
  • The Blog
  • SUPPLEMENTAL MUSIC GUIDE
  • GIFT CARDS
  • APPAREL
  • REQUEST INFO
  • FAQ
  • TESTIMONIALS
  • EMPLOYMENT
  • CURRENT STUDENTS
  • VIDEOS
  • PHOTO GALLERY
  • FREE TRIAL LESSON
  • MAKE UP LESSON CALENDARS
  • PRIMER TEST - PART I
  • PRIMER TEST - PART II
  • PRIMER TEST - PART III
  • PRIMER TEST - PART IV
  • PRIMER TEST - PART V