The iSchool of Music and Art has been around for over 10 years. It continues its rich tradition of encouraging children of all ages in the art of music. The “i” in iSchool stands for inspiration.
On Friday, March 4, 75 students participated in the school’s grandest performance of the year. The iSchool of Music and Art students performed selections from the Great American Songbook. The show featured 19 songs, which ranged from the 1920s to modern music. Musical genres included everything from jazz, rock, pop, Broadway, big band and more. This performance ironically was scheduled to be performed on Jan. 24 at Carnegie Hall. Unfortunately, the show was canceled due to record snowfall on that day. This was only the second time a show was canceled there since 1891.
iSchool started in 2005 and was founded by Yi Qian and Ken Benshish. Qian and Benshish were friends in college and wanted to use their musical talents to teach others. The iSchool of Music and Art offers different musical programs which are based on students’ age, goals and musical skills. These programs foster collaboration among the students. Students are educated in different musical instruments, such as piano, guitar, drums, bass, flute, clarinet, saxophone, as well as vocals. The result of these lessons creates a unique opportunity for students to not only play solo, but to experience playing together as a group in a band.
Qian, who was originally from China, is currently the sole owner and director of iSchool. He holds a master’s degree in percussion performance from Northwestern University. He believes that the main objective of the school is to focus on education, value and quality, which will lead to performance opportunities for the students.
“It’s about helping the kids find some confidence and their own voice on stage,” said Qian. “This is the ultimate goal for us.”
Qian feels that Port Washington is an ideal location to match the school’s philosophy. He praises the parental support the children in the community receive, which is vital to the school’s success. He likes the small-town values, which Port Washington offers. “We wanted to come to a town that supports our culture, education and music,” said Qian. “This is the perfect location.”
For more information, go to www.ischoolmusicart.com. The school is located at 14 Vanderventer Ave.
