Little Keynotes Piano
KeyNotes transforms traditional piano lessons into collaborative, creative classes where every child can thrive.
What to expect
KeyNotes builds on the tradition of piano lessons by bringing it to life in a small group setting, capped at just 6 children, where young musicians sing, dance, and explore the keyboard together. Every session wraps with a performance, giving students a moment to shine!
The curriculum is designed with how young children actually learn. Concepts are reinforced over time, building genuine musical understanding alongside proper technique — in a way that feels fun and natural.
Why you'll love it
Piano lessons don’t have to mean sitting alone at a bench. In KeyNotes, children learn together supporting one another through rhythm, creativity, and play. The group setting develops listening skills, ensemble awareness, and confidence, all while each child progresses individually through a structured curriculum.
At the heart of the program is Missy Wilson, whose passion for making music accessible and joyful for young learners shapes every class.
Missy Wilson
Kindermusik & KeyNotes Teacher
Missy holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Music Education, which has allowed her to transform the lives of school age children through music and movement for nearly 2 decades. When her 2 children were born, she discovered the fun that can come with making music with very young children, which led her to becoming a licensed Kindermusik educator. She opened Kindermusik with Missy in 2017 and the rest is history! In 2025, Missy received the honor of having Kindermusik with Missy be named a Top Program by Kindermusik International. We are so excited to partner with Missy to bring Kindermusik and KeyNotes classes to Charlotte Academy of the Arts! Missy writes, “I'm looking forward to being not only your child's music class teacher, but also your educational coach, helping you understand how your child is developing musically, cognitively, and socially. I have witnessed firsthand the power that music can have on children. I have 2 children of my own, who LOVE to learn through music!”Class details
KeyNotes is offered for two age groups:
- Ages 4-5: Little KeyNotes, a perfect first step into piano for young beginners
- Ages 6-8: Building on foundations with expanding technique and musicality
Classes meet weekly in groups of no more than 4 students. You child will receive two workbooks, one for the child and one for the grown-up at home, so you can support practice between classes.
You will want a piano or keyboard at home for practice. We recommend a keyboard with full-size weighted keys. The Yamaha Piaggero NP15 is an excellent option if you don’t have one yet!
What’s included
- Weekly small group class (max 4 students)
- Two 12-week workbooks per session — one for your child, one for you
- Performance at the end of each workbook
- A curriculum built on creativity, movement, and play
What’s next
KeyNotes graduates are ready for so much more! Students may move into private piano lessons at Charlotte Academy of the Arts, or explore a completely different instrument. The Academy offers private instruction across a wide range of options.
CAA is also home to a warm and nurturing performing arts community. KeyNotes graduates are the perfect age to step into our Rising Stars or Shining Stars musical theatre classes, where young performers discover singing, acting, and dancing in a supportive, joyful environment. And when summer rolls around, our Summer Camps and Kids Musical Theatre productions are a wonderful way to keep the momentum going.
At Charlotte Academy of the Arts, there is always a next step — and always a place where your child belongs.