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— ADVERTORIAL —
The Joy of Learning Music
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC
A place where playing an instrument and fun go hand-in-hand
PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC
As kids, we often dream of becoming
rock stars, playing the air guitar or
drumming on any hard surface we can
find. And let’s be honest, many of us do
this into adulthood. If you’re interested
in living out your musical fantasies,
The International School of Music can
take you from air guitar to guitar hero!
Celebrating its 15th year in business, the
International School of Music is one of the
largest private music schools in the D.C.

area, with two locations in Bethesda and
Potomac, and a student body of more than
1,600 students.

Its robust, professionally trained fac-
ulty is revered not just for their extensive
teaching and performing experience, but
also for their ability to connect with stu-
dents and make lessons engaging and fun.

ISM’s gifted faculty fosters a positive and
successful learning environment through
custom-tailored instruction designed to
meet each student’s individual learning
needs and musical goals.

“Our teachers focus on songs that stu-
dents like and enjoy, so students can learn
note reading and technique through fun,”
says Inja Stanic, the school’s CEO and
Founder. “Parents are always excited to see
the progress their kids make and how much
fun the kids are having at our school.”
The school’s instructors and admin-
istration work hard to create a holistic,
well-rounded musical experience for all
students. Lessons are not just fun and
engaging, but are also structured to help
students improve their musicianship
through the Musical Ladder System ® .

With this exciting and educational cur-
riculum tool, students develop effective
practice habits and achieve important
milestones. Students can earn rewards
like colored wristbands, trophies and
certificates based on their progression.

As one ISM mom says, “In addition to
the individualized approach and commu-
nication aspect, I love the accountability of
the Musical Ladder System ® . As moms, we
International School of Music Fiddle Band
often feel like a broken record, saying, ‘You
need to practice!’ and ‘Have you worked
on your scales?’ among other things. Sadly,
kids can get into a rut with wanting to prac-
tice if they feel like it’s not fun or there’s no
carrot at the end of the stick. But the Musi-
cal Ladder System ® is so much more than
a carrot at the end of the stick. It’s a tan-
gible goal and reward for hard work. What
3rd-grader doesn’t love a cool wristband,
trophy and a certificate?”
ISM students, ranging in age from four
years to adults, come from every stage of
life and musical experience. The school
offers a wide array of instrument lesson
choices, including piano, guitar, voice, viola,
violin, drums, bass, cello, flute, saxophone,
guitar, trumpet, trombone, horn, ukulele
and more. Students can decide what genres
they are interested in exploring, be it rock,
pop, jazz, country, blues or classical. ISM’s
Early Childhood Music Program includes
special classes for toddlers and preschool-
ers that introduce them to music through
play, song, dance and games. Additionally,
students may participate in ensembles such
as fiddle band, flute choir, guitar ensemble,
piano trio, string quartet and more, which
allow students to learn how to collaborate
with other musicians.

There are many exciting performance
opportunities throughout the year that
reinforce goal-minded practice and
provide students with valuable skills
necessary to perform. From school recit-
als where students can perform for their
friends and family, to prestigious perfor-
mances at Carnegie Hall, Strathmore Hall
and the Kennedy Center, ISM’s recitals
allow students to grow and shine! For stu-
dents who seek even more performance
opportunities, ISM’s Student Ambassa-
dor Program extends learning beyond the
school’s walls for students to share music
with the community.

“One of my overriding beliefs has
always been that everybody can bene-
fit from music lessons,” Ms. Stanic says.

“Music can make such a big difference in
your life. It can enrich your life, even if
you are not a virtuoso. I love seeing stu-
dents come in and accomplish things
and build their self-confidence to the
point where they’re able to jam with their
friends. Studying music teaches students
the life skills that they need: perseverance,
teamwork, communication skills, respect,
sensitivity, listening to others, hard work
and much more.” ■
Interested in starting your musical journey?
If so, the International School of Music has a
class for you. The award winning music school,
with two locations serves over 1,600 students of
all ages in Montgomery County. To learn more
about the International School of Music, visit
ismw.org, email us at info@ismw.org or call
301-365-5888 to schedule a tour.

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