Looking for music lessons?
This music studio in Indian Land just celebrated its third anniversary.
July 6, 2021 | Wilson
Connie Cooper opened the first Ballantyne School of Music in Ballantyne eight years ago. Cooper, who lives in Indian Land, passed by her soon-to-be second location every day on the way to work.
“I saw the space was available and I put some teasers out on social media to see if there was any interest in having a music school in the Indian Land area,” said Cooper. The idea was so popular that the school had 45 students on its first day of business. This spring, the Indian Land location celebrated its third anniversary in the Cross Creek Shopping Center.
Cooper had a corporate job for years but decided to take a leap of faith and use her experience, love of music, and business degree to start her own music teaching studio. Cooper explained that in-home lessons can be distracting so she wanted to create a space for the student to be able to focus on their lesson. The model is working as the school now boasts over 500 students between the two locations.
What they offer: Ballantyne School of Music specializes in teaching theory and performance for a wide variety of musical instruments beginning at age 6. Lessons are 30-60 minutes long (depending on age and skill level) once a week and can be done in person or virtually.
Jam Sessions: The school offers an ensemble program called “Jam Sessions” for students 10-20 years old. The school places kids with similar skill levels and ages in a band to play the music that they like. The 10-week program is followed by a performance on stage.
Camps are offered in the summer.
What makes Ballantyne School of Music different? Cooper shared that what makes her school stand out is 1) hiring good teachers and 2) consistency of schedule. As a mother of three children, Cooper understands that consistency of schedule is very important. “So many families here are very scheduled,” she said. “We know that this isn’t the only thing that you do so we have subs on standby in case an instructor can’t make a lesson.”
While the lessons are offered for kids as well as adults and seniors, Cooper has a soft spot for the kids. “Music for a lot of these kids is all that they have,” she said. “For some kids who aren’t athletic or very social, this is their go-to. Then some kids are super social and this is just an extra thing that they do.”
If you are interested in learning more, the first lesson is free!
Ballantyne School of Music - South
Location: 8390 Charlotte Hwy Suite 900, Indian Land, SC
Hours: Monday - 10 am. - 8 p.m., Tuesday - Thursday 2 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Ballantyne School of Music
Location: 11318 North Community House Rd. Suite 303, Charlotte, NC
Hours: Monday - Thursday 2:30 - 8:30 p.m., Saturday - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
www.ballantyneschoolofmusic.com
