Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Germantown: Sound of Maplewood

While many Philadelphia school students have just finished adjusting to the start of the Fall semester, the Maplewood Music Studio is in the midst of a quite hectic time. With over 140 students enrolled within two operating locations, one location in Germantown and another in Chestnut Hill, the Maplewood Music Studio has expanded since its start in 1980.

Founder and director Rich Rudin attributes the studio’s success to its quality of teaching, the personal attention it give its students, and its flexibility when it comes to scheduling. Maplewood Music Studio has a large and diverse clientele and it does its best to work around many busy schedules to ensure that valuable lessons occur.

“The main thing I'm proud of is Maplewood's diversity - in every respect,” said Rudin.

The Maplewood Music Studio provides an education for many age groups. Its youngest music lover was a nearly 1-year-old infant and its oldest being an 88-year-old senior citizen. The students vary in interests and in skill level, while the staff varies in teaching specialty.

In the music program students can play all types of music genres, such as jazz, folk, classical, popular music to name a few and can select to learn from many different instruments. Piano has been the most common choice of instrument among students.

In December, March and June, students who participate in the program have the opportunity to showcase their work in a recital.

“It’s a very rewarding time because they get to share their growth, enthusiasm, and love for music with others,” explained Rudin.

Rudin shares a love for music as well, and had not originally planned to become a teacher, nor did he have a desire to start a music school. During his college years, he began teaching as a way to earn some income. Shortly enough he fell in love with teaching. Rudin who lived in Germantown for a number of years feels that Maplewood Mall is an ideal location for the Maplewood Music Studio.

“I think Germantown is a great community and I think Maplewood Mall is the central part of Germantown. I’m proud to be here,” said Rudin.


By Keisha Frazier and Lisa Wilk.

Historical Society - Group 16

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