June 2025 Newsletter
In This Month’s Newsletter
"From Spirituals to Jazz: The Soundtrack of Freedom in American History"
Fun and Important Dates
Upcoming Recitals and Concerts
Welcome Our New Students
Student of the Month
Spotlight on Scott Joplin
Did You Know? Music Education Opens College Doors
Inspirations
Music Playdates in the Parks
Summer Camps
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
Referral Program
“From Spirituals to Jazz: The Soundtrack of Freedom in American History”
American music has deep roots in the songs of enslaved African Americans, who used music as a way to express pain, hope, faith, and resilience.
These early songs—often called spirituals or slave songs—were full of coded messages, biblical imagery, and emotional depth.
They weren’t just a form of survival; they were a way of holding on to identity, building community, and dreaming of freedom.
After emancipation, music continued to evolve. One of the earliest major figures was Scott Joplin, known as the "King of Ragtime." In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Joplin’s upbeat, syncopated piano music brought African American artistry into American parlors and concert halls. His compositions, like Maple Leaf Rag, laid the groundwork for what would become jazz.
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learned they were free—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
This day became a joyful celebration of freedom, family, and African American culture—and music has always played a central role. From traditional spirituals to gospel choirs, blues jams, and jazz bands, Juneteenth reminds us how music has been a powerful voice for freedom, expression, and unity in American history.
FUN and IMPORTANT DATES
Father’s Day
Sunday, June 15
Juneteenth
Wednesday, June 19
Upcoming Recitals and Concerts
Concert Performance Team Recitals
Recitals - In Person
Wednesday and Thursday July 2 and 3
Times: Afternoon & Early Evening
Location: Norman Murray Center, Mission Viejo
Please welcome
our NEW Students who enrolled
in March
Krish A.
Harper A.
Linden K.
Lou K.
Josh L.
Tanya M.
Bella P.
Damian S.
Kalea S.
Student of the Month
Elena Monarrez
Elena started taking piano lessons about two-and-a-half years ago, when she was 4 (almost 5) years old. What she loves the most about playing the piano is learning new things. "I enjoy learning a lot."
And she particularly loves playing songs with the "high notes" or "high keys" on the piano keyboard!
Elena sings at her school, and enjoys singing while playing the piano, especially when practicing at home "I like singing and playing. And sometimes I sing while my sister plays the piano."
One day Elena would like to play the violin. She loves reading, and playing with her friends at school during recess. On some weekdays she swims, including on a swim team in the Crown Valley Aquatics Center. She practices Tae Kwon Do and recently won 1st place in a tournament. Elena likes ballet, chess, and loves Christmas -- her "favorite season of the year." She visits Mexico with her family from time to time, and their next trip being planned will be to Los Cabos in Baja California.
Spotlight on Scott Joplin
Scott Joplin was an American composer and pianist, best known as the “King of Ragtime.” Born around 1868 in Texas to a musical African American family, Joplin grew up surrounded by a blend of folk music, spirituals, and classical training. His early exposure to the piano and his natural talent led him to study music formally—a rare opportunity for Black musicians at the time.
As he matured, Joplin combined the syncopated rhythms of African American dance music with European musical structure to create a lively, sophisticated new style: ragtime.
Joplin’s most famous composition, Maple Leaf Rag, published in 1899, became a nationwide sensation and helped bring ragtime into the mainstream. His music stood out for its precision, elegance, and emotional depth, elevating what was once considered barroom music into a respected art form. Joplin composed dozens of rags, waltzes, and even operas, including Treemonisha, which blended classical storytelling with Black American themes and folk traditions.
Joplin’s music was deeply influenced by the cultural crosscurrents of post–Civil War America. He drew from African American spirituals, folk rhythms, and the structure of European classical music to forge something entirely new. His work not only defined an era but also laid the foundation for jazz, making him one of the most influential figures in American musical history. Today, Scott Joplin is remembered not only for his catchy, brilliant melodies but for helping to create a truly American sound.
Did You Know?
Music Education Opens College Doors
Music education can be a powerful asset when it comes to college admissions. Here are three most important ways music lessons can help students get into their preferred college or university:
1. Demonstrates Commitment, Discipline, and Leadership
Colleges look for students who have shown long-term dedication to something meaningful, and music is a clear indicator of that. Years of private lessons, regular practice, ensemble participation, recitals, and competitions show colleges that the student is disciplined, goal-oriented, and resilient. Leadership roles—like section leader, drum major, or concertmaster—also add weight, showing the student contributes meaningfully to their community.
2. Enhances the Application with Unique Skills and Achievements
A strong music background helps students stand out. Whether applying as a music major, a minor, or in another field entirely, a supplemental arts portfolio, audition, or list of music accomplishments gives admissions committees something special to remember. Music demonstrates creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration—traits that are valuable in every field of study.
3. Opens the Door to Scholarships and Specialized Programs
Many colleges offer music scholarships—even to non-majors—based on talent and experience. Participating in band, orchestra, choir, or other ensembles can also give students priority housing, access to elite faculty, or entry into honors programs. Even if a student isn’t majoring in music, their musical training can unlock financial aid and unique opportunities on campus.
Inspirations
“Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.”
“It was June, and the world smelled of roses. The sunshine was like powdered gold over the grassy hillside.”
Music Playdates in the Parks
Weekly on Wednesdays and Saturday mornings
from 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Meet friends, dance a little, sing along, play with some musical instruments,
and other fun toys!
Find us near the playground.
See park schedule on our website.
Summer Camps
Summer “Beginner” Piano Camps
Ages 7-10 Mornings 9:00 am - 12 noon
One Week Duration (5 Days, M-F)
Camps are designed for beginners, Ages 7-10, who will learn some basics, get to know their way around the piano, play some songs, feel the beat, sing a little, enjoy some musical arts and crafts, and perform some music in a small group recital!
June 16 - 20, 2025
June 14 - 18, 2025
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
June 2025
To encourage everyone to read the Dennis Frayne Music Studio Newsletter, each month we’ll feature a new contest winner or a new contest. Be sure to read your newsletter each month to see if your name has been drawn or you might miss out!
This month’s winner is Melisa Cevic
Melisa has won 10 tickets which can be redeemed for prizes at the Dennis Frayne Music Studio, Laguna Niguel!
To collect your prize tickets just bring this to the office.
Congratulations, Melisa!
Everyone, be sure to read your newsletter each month!
