A Family of Six at TMS

by Tina Stradiot

When our 22 year old daughter, HuiYing, was 5 we attended the Suzuki introduction where she heard Miss Rachel Bernstein play her cello. The decision was settled. She would be a cellist. Since "twinkle", HuiYing has now become a certified Suzuki instructor. Miss Rachel continues to be a mentor and dear friend. We are forever grateful to Miss Rachel and The Music Settlement.

For about sixteen years now, The Music Settlement has been such a big part of our lives. In times when we really thought there was no possible way we could continue, you have been so gracious and giving. Music lessons have helped develop appreciation of beauty, hard work, focus, and perseverance. For so many years, we packed our van full: a bass, 2 cellos, 2 violin, viola, & music bag. This year, we loaded the car only with a music bag and 2 violins. Time passes so quickly, but at the same time I am encouraged because our children, grown now, will always have the skills and love of music they learned because of the generosity of TMS.

We will continue to recommend TMS because of the care and attention of the teachers and staff. Over the years, six of our children received terrific coaching from excellent teachers. The Suzuki Department has been wonderful! Rachel Bernstein, Chris Jenkins, Jenny Cluggish, and Callista Koh are committed to helping our children develop and grow.

During this time in history where everything is so fast paced, it makes it difficult to apply oneself, but studying at TMS has given our children the ability to develop focus, determination, perseverance and more. It has also allowed us to become familiar with a wide variety of music. We are very thankful and appreciate all you do for families - ours included.