What students are saying: 

...If it wasn't for the encouragement and patience of my music mentor, Al Biela, I wouldn't have the enthusiasm toward music that I have today.  In second grade, Al prompted me to compose my own music...After that, Al inspired me to begin writing lyrics.  Because of Al's never ending passion for music and lyrics, I now am interested in journalism and poetry...Music has provided a way to express myself along with self confidence to perform on stage...I am simply amazed that Mr. Biela can bring together musicians to create eight different bands...moving musicians out of their comfort zone to reach their highest potentials and goals...I feel that Al has helped me through my roughest frustrations as well as helping me achieve my greatest goals and standards...Mr. Biela has been an inspiration for me to succeed.  Z. Schlosser, guitar, rock band class, and Iowa School of Rock student, age 15

Dear Teacher:  Thanks for being my teacher.  I had fun playing the piano and I am glad you are my teacher.  From, E. Warrick, piano student, age 7

Dear Mr. Biela:  Thank you for teaching me how to play the piano.  You are an awesome teacher.  Thanks again, G. Ryken, Ames Music Studios piano student.

What I like best about my lessons are that they keep me working on new things that I wouldn't make the effort to learn on my own.  My teacher is very knowledgable, easy going, and tolerant of "older" recreational students.  I have worked on music theory, basic bass technique (couldn't play the bass before coming to Ames Music Studios), and breadth of syles on bother guitar and bass.  D. Skarshaug, adult guitar student

What parents are saying

Our children were ages 1, 2 and 3 years old when they participated in the preschool music class at Ames Music   Studios. They thoroughly enjoyed each session. The classes were fun and educational with the perfect balance of creativity and structure. The children came home singing and retelling their stories which continued throughout our week. One thing that we truly appreciated about the preschool class was that fact that they encouraged parental participation. To share an experience with your child is priceless! I would highly recommend Ames Music Studios to any family desiring to provide their child with a positive musical experience.  A. Janecek

"Thank you so much for your patience with Shanna through her struggles and triumphs with learning the piano.  She has really enjoyed her lessons."  O. Esters, mom of Shanna, private piano student

"A HUGE SUCCESS!  I thank God for bringing you both into our lives. Jake has learned so much from this and is ready to learn and do some more! Jake's confidence in himself has just been exploded. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"  K. Birdsall, mom of a piano and Iowa School of Rock student

On recitals

I think Will has grown so much in his skills this year and that is because of what his teacher does.  Thanks for the many opportunities you give the students to perform!  J. Kresse, mom of piano student

Iowa School of Rock

I must write to congratulate and thank you for having the determination to do a very good thing.  WOW!  I was proud to have a son who was given an opportunity to work cooperatively in a group, to be inspired by adults and older yourth who are passionate, disciplined and commited to performing.  I am still beaming!...You tune kids in and tune into their energy...Bravo!  S. Norris, mom of a rocker

Thank you so much for providing such a special evening for all of us!  We truly enjoyed the music and engaging atmosphere of the Iowa School of Rock concert.  Colin had a grin from ear to ear!  Not only was he able to play the drums with a group of great musicians, he also received the encouragement and support from all the other bands.  What a fabulous example the older musicians provided for the yournger ones.  Way to go Rockers!! Gratefully, M. Peterson, mom of a rocker

"A HUGE SUCCESS!  I thank God for bringing you both into our lives. Jake has learned so much from this and is ready to learn and do some more! Jake's confidence in himself has just been exploded. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"  K. Birdsall, mom of a rocker

Just wanted to let you know that the concert on the 5th was fantastic...Maybe a bit biased on my part, but I thought Holly's band was the best, overall.  Just wanted to let you know that I was impressed by Hollly's performace and the way she showed so much improvement form last summer.  M. Barton, dad of a rocker

It was amazing to see the evolution these kids make from one session to the next.  This group really seemed to gel.  I though they sounded great and worked together so well.  D. Rupp, mom of a rocker

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