Kanack School of Musical Artistry
Creative educational systems in a warm, disciplined, non-competitive environment.
The Kanack School of Musical Artistry, founded in 1995, is a vibrant community where creativity meets musical excellence. The story of the school began in 1984 when founder Alice Kanack traveled to Matsumoto, Japan, to meet the legendary Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. Inspired by their shared belief that creativity is not fixed but can be nurtured through music, Alice developed her own groundbreaking approach. Dr. Suzuki himself recognized her vision, affectionately calling her “Mozart’s Mother.” Over the next decade, Alice honed her ideas while teaching in New York City before returning to her hometown to establish the Kanack School.
At the heart of the school’s philosophy is the Creative Ability Development Method (CAD), authored by Alice Kanack, which teaches students to improvise and unlock their creative potential. Combining discipline with fun, the Kanack School emphasizes both technical excellence and musical expression, ensuring every student becomes a true musical artist. In Alice’s words:
- Creative Ability + Music = Musicality
- Musicality + Technical Facility = Artistry
Today, the school serves over 400 students, with a talented team of 20 professional musicians and educators, and is actively expanding its capacity. Students enjoy private lessons in violin, viola, cello, guitar, piano, and voice, as well as a wide range of group classes at no additional cost. These include improvisation classes, string orchestras, repertoire sessions, fiddle styles, chamber music, and more. This inclusive, collaborative environment fosters a community of fun-loving musicians and creators.
The Kanack School also serves as the headquarters for the Creative Ability Development Method. Each year, Alice and a group of student improvisers of all ages tour to showcase CAD at workshops and conferences. Additionally, the school offers summer camps, masterclasses, performances by guest artists, and regular concerts that are free and open to the public.
Whether you're a toddler discovering music for the first time, an adult picking up an instrument, or an aspiring artist seeking technical mastery, the Kanack School welcomes students of all ages and backgrounds. Visit our website for more details on lessons, classes, and events—we’d love to make you a part of our musical family!