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.

How Does the Summer Work?

As the end of the school year approaches, we often get asked these questions:

Q. How do lessons work in the summer?

A. The Dennis Frayne Music Studios and Laguna Niguel School of Music are open year-round, and we do not close during the summer.

Q. Do a lot of students quit during the summer?

A. No! Most of our students continue taking lessons during the summer. It’s the best way, as it maintains continuity and prevents learning loss. Some students withdraw but then many new students start lessons during the summer months.

Q. If we withdraw for the summer, can we keep our spot for the Fall?

A. Lessons are first come first serve, so if you withdraw for the summer, we cannot guarantee that we will have the same spot for you in the Fall, as we will open the spot to new students. Also, we increase our rates to offset inflation each year at the Fall quarter, and you would come in at the new rate.