In This Month’s Newsletter

Exploring the California MTAC Certificate of Merit Program
and the RCM Testing Program
Fun and Important Dates
Upcoming Recitals and Concerts
Welcome Our New Students
Student of the Month
Spotlight on Bruno Cunha
Did You Know? We Offer CM and RCM Exam Prep
Inspirations
Music Playdates in the Parks
Join Choir!
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
Referral Program

Exploring the California MTAC Certificate of Merit Program
and the RCM Testing Program

For young music students in California and beyond, structured evaluation programs such as the Music Teachers' Association of California (MTAC) Certificate of Merit (CM) program and the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) testing program offer incredible opportunities to grow as musicians. Both programs provide a comprehensive framework for learning and assessing musical skills, but they each have unique features that cater to different needs and goals.

The MTAC Certificate of Merit program is very popular in California and was designed specifically for California music students. It evaluates students annually on performance, technique, sight-reading, theory, and ear training. Students progress through a series of levels, from beginner to advanced, earning certificates and opportunities to perform in honors recitals if they excel. The program emphasizes individualized growth and recognizes students' achievements in their musical journey.

The RCM testing program, originating in Canada, has a broader international reach. It offers standardized assessments in various instruments, voice, and theory. The RCM program has a reputation for academic rigor and provides a comprehensive curriculum that aligns with internationally recognized standards. It, too, evaluates students through progressive levels, awarding certificates for each successful stage and offering recognition through honors and diplomas.

While both programs assess performance, technique, and theoretical knowledge, the Certificate of Merit program is tailored to California’s music education community and offers direct interaction with local teachers and recital opportunities. Testing can take place in-person or online. The RCM program’s global recognition can be appealing to students seeking an internationally acknowledged certification. RCM includes diploma-level certifications such as the Associate of the Royal Conservatory (ARCT), which is prestigious and widely respected.

The benefits of participating in either program are great for students who are interested in these kinds of programs and activities. CM provides a supportive environment that fosters local community connections and builds confidence through personalized feedback. RCM equips students with a well-rounded and globally recognized musical foundation, making it an excellent choice for students pursuing advanced studies or music careers.

Music exams and awards programs offer benefits for students. They provide clear goals to strive toward, instill discipline, and encourage a deep understanding of music. The opportunity to earn certificates, honors, and accolades boosts self-esteem and creates a tangible sense of accomplishment. Moreover, these programs help students develop valuable skills such as time management, focus, and resilience, which extend beyond music into academics and life. By participating in such programs, students not only grow as musicians but also as confident, capable individuals.

FUN and IMPORTANT DATES

**Valentines Day**
Friday, February 14
Off-day, no regular lessons

**President’s Day**
Monday, February 17
Lessons are ON

Upcoming Recitals and Concerts

**Concert Performance Team Recitals**

Sunday, February 16, 2:00pm
Ivy Park at Mission Viejo

Please welcome

our NEW Students who enrolled

in December

Charli C.
Olivia H.
Nishi J.
Sitara J.
Harrison L.
Anna M.
Sage N.
Matteo P.
Lila R.
Logan R.

Student of the Month

Sophia Monarrez

Sophia started taking piano lessons at the Laguna Niguel School of Music with Dr. Dennis two years ago, with her sister, Elena.

Like so many music students, she started with Hot Cross Buns! She now is approaching the end of Presto! It's Piano Magic, Book 1, has performed in many studio recitals, and participates on our Concert Performance Team.

Sophia says, "I like the way the piano sounds, it is fun to play the piano, I love it!" She also plays the violin, and when she grows up, she is thinking about joining choir and learning how to play the guitar. In school, Sophia really likes social studies and math. "Math is usually not too hard for me." She also enjoys arts and crafts, building things for herself, knitting, swimming, and taekwondo. And she's always wanted to go to SeaWorld to see penguins and jellyfish.

Spotlight on Bruno Cunha

Teacher Bruno Cunha is an award-winning musician from São Paulo, Brazil.

A talented multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, and mixing engineer, Bruno collects over 22M streams with notable and Latin Grammy-winning artists. You can also hear Bruno's music on the Emmy award-winning TV show, Go! Go! Cory Carson.

Bruno started learning and playing music when he was just three years old. Since then, he has been having fun playing, learning, and exploring the "huge musical world." Bruni's music education has included studies at prominent Brazilian and American institutions. Among other musical topics and content areas, Mr. Bruno teaches guitar, bass guitar, drums, and piano at the Laguna Niguel School of Music, Dennis Frayne Music Studios.

Did You Know?

We offer Certificate of Merit (CM) and Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) testing preparation classes at the Laguna Niguel School of Music and Dennis Frayne Music Studios.

CM exams take place once per year. RCM exams can take place throughout the year. Students wishing to participate in CM or RCM can enroll in our Exams and Honors Program. We offer open enrollment twice per year, February and August, for six-month sessions beginning in March and September.

Students wishing to participate in CM for 2026 must make a decision and enroll by August, 2025. The first step is to send an email requesting participation to office@dennisfrayne.com. Here is a link which describes the eligibility requirements (scroll down to the bottom of the page, Exams & Honors Add-on Package).

https://www.dennisfraynemusicstudio.com/music-lessons-memberships-tuition

CM students can participate in both sessions, year-round. This will ensure maximum success in their exams. Six-months is the minimum requirement. All students who work hard and study as needed will succeed and pass their exams. Many of our students receive state honors and other awards.

Inspirations

“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”

— Proverbs 4:23

“February, the month of love, is a time to cherish the bonds that warm our hearts.”

— D.A. Blankinship

Music Playdates in the Parks

Laguna Niguel and surrounding areas.

Weekly playdates on Wednesday 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.

Join Choir!

In Laguna Niguel

Children and Youth

Saturdays

1:00p (ages 8-12)

2:30p (ages 13-17)

Adult

Tuesdays, 6:15p

Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?

February 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 Owen Whitcomb