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March 2025
🌸 “Just as spring awakens the earth, music awakens the soul.”
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In This Issue
- Faculty Concert
- How Do Summer Lessons Work
- Summer Recital
- Bring a Friend Week
- Student Spotlight
- Animal Adventure – Now Early Hours
- Our Students’ RCM Exam Success!
- Student of the Month
- Musical Ladder Achievements
- New Referral Contest
- Teachers With a Waiting List
- Welcome New and Returning Students
Got news for the MFAA Newsletter? We welcome and encourage all submissions!
🎶 A Personal Invitation – Together in Tune Faculty Concert 🎟️
Dear MFAA Students, Parents, and Friends,
I want to personally invite you to a very special evening—our Together in Tune Faculty & Student Concert, happening on May 4th at 7:00 PM at the Living Arts Centre, RBC Theatre.
I’d love to share something special with you—a performance from last year’s faculty concert where I had the privilege of playing. This video is a small glimpse of the incredible music and inspiration we have in store for you this year. I hope you enjoy it!
This event is not just a performance—it’s an opportunity to see your teachers on stage, experience the passion behind music, and feel inspired to grow as a musician. For the first time, we are also featuring our advanced students as they take the next step in their musical journey, making this concert even more special.
Come support your teachers as they support you! Your presence means the world to us, and your ticket purchase directly contributes to future performances and the hardworking teachers who dedicate themselves to your musical success.
🎟 Tickets are now available for purchase—don’t wait! Get yours here: HERE
Thank you for your loyalty and support. I can’t wait to see you at the concert!
Musically yours,
Vadim Koltsov
Director, Mississauga Fine Arts Academy
Mark Your Calendar
Bring a Friend Week – April 11th – 18th
Faculty Concert – May 4th
Summer Recitals – June 14th, 15th, and 21st, 22nd
Don’t Let Your Skills Take a Vacation – Keep Learning This Summer! How Do Summer Lessons Work
ALL ABOUT YOUR SUMMER LESSONS
Summer’s right around the corner. Wait… wasn’t it December yesterday? How did we get here so fast? Well, MFAA doesn’t mind because the summer means just a bit more fun than usual! Between our summer recital coming up, the chamber strings program, and more, we’re always keeping busy during the hot summer months. Here are some frequently asked questions we get during the summer season:
Do you want to stay with the same teacher in the Fall?
Do you need the same day and time that you have now?
Each summer, we often get asked these questions:
Q: “How do lessons work in the Summer?”
A: Many parents are looking for summer activities for their children. We‘re glad to announce that the school is open year-round, and we do not close during the summer!
Q: “Do many students withdraw during the summer?”
A. This time, more than 100 people are on the waiting list. Some students withdraw, but we get many students from June to August, as many parents want something fun to do for their children during the school break. A large portion of these students continue their classes into the Fall. The number of students travelling in the Summer and stopping classes for vacations is at a record low. We’re running ads all over the internet and social media, and we are the top music school in Mississauga, so this summer, we will be one of our busiest yet.
Q: “How full is the school?”
A. We are at approximately 90% capacity today, and many teachers are fully booked between 3:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Q: “If we withdraw for the Summer, can we continue right where we left off in the Fall?”
A. Lessons are first come, first served, so if you withdraw for the Summer, we cannot guarantee that we will have a spot for you in the Fall, as we will open the spot to new students. Your progress on the Musical Ladder will be postponed based on the time off for up to three months, and after the fourth month, it will be restarted.
The big question for all parents and students to consider is:
Do you want to stay with the same teacher in the Fall?
If the answer is YES, there are four ways to do this:
1. Take advantage of our group make-up lessons
We realize some of you will be away for some of the Summer. You can make up all your missing classes without withdrawing by signing up for group make-up classes.
It’s very easy to do!
You can sign up for a group make-up lesson at a time that works best for you by speaking with someone at the front desk. If you don’t know when you want your make-up lesson yet, don’t worry! Our group make-up classes do not expire, nor do they have any limits.
GET A HEAD START: You can start making up lessons for the Summer in advance at any time.
2. Pre-recorded lessons
This option is great for those planning to be away for a few weeks or even the entire Summer. Let us know that you will be away at least 24 hours before your class. Your teacher will record a video with individual instructions tailored to you and upload any necessary materials on the Lesson Mate platform. Students can log in anytime, watch the video and download class materials. The great benefit of this option is that the student receives instructions from their teacher and can have class at any convenient time.
3. You can offer your spot to a family member or friend.
You can send family members or friends to your place for the dates you will miss. Just let the office know who is coming and when so we can let the teachers know beforehand.
4. Take ZOOM lessons.
It is super easy these days to keep your classes going no matter where you are. If you plan to travel overseas, Online lessons are a great option. We have offered them in the past and will continue to offer them to accommodate you while you are away.
Each September, we get calls from students who have been with us for years but withdrew for the Summer. They want to return to the same teacher, day, and time, but another student has filled the spot.
If you love your teacher, keep your spot by taking make-up classes, watching pre-recorded videos, lending your spot to a friend, or taking online lessons!
Let’s make music this Summer!
Step Into the Spotlight: MFAA’s Summer Recital at the Living Arts Centre!
Everything You Need to Know About MFAA’s Summer Recital
We can’t wait to see our students’ performances. Our in-person recitals happen in the Living Arts Centre in the Rogers Theatre. This summer, with over 700 students and an all-time record enrollment, this recital will take place over two weekends and four days in multiple one-hour time blocks. We will put students in different recital blocks based on their teachers. We will put all your recital blocks together for students with multiple instruments or siblings taking lessons, but you may not be with your teacher.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about how the recitals work:
Q- How much do recital tickets cost? I’d love to bring friends/family to watch
A -The recital is entirely free! The hall we’re in seats around 100 people, and seats are first come, first served. Seating is limited, so please respect other people who may wish to bring guests.
Q – What should the performers be wearing to the recital?
A – It’s entirely up to them! Since it is a rather big event and many people will take photos, we suggest dressing nicely. Still, most importantly, we recommend wearing clothes that will make you feel comfortable.
Q – What time should I arrive?
A – We recommend that families and performers arrive roughly 15 minutes before the recital block. You’ll need to wait for the group before yours finishes before entering the hall.
Q – Where do I park my car?
A – The Living Arts Centre has an underground parking lot that is free on weekends. Alternatively, you can park across the centre at the Square One Shopping Centre parking.
Q – Are we allowed to take pictures during the show?
A – Of course! Taking pictures is encouraged; however, we ask that no flash photography be used while the students perform. We will also be having a hashtag contest again this year, where if you post any pictures on social media (Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter) using #MississaugaFineArtsAcademy or #MFAARECITAL, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a prize! There will also be a red carpet outside the hall where you can take pictures.
Q – How does the “stage” work?
A -The Rogers Theatre is a theatre-style room. The “stage” is at the front of the room, and seats go beyond that on a gradual incline. There is no “backstage”—parents will always be able to see their children. We ask that performers sit in the front three rows, and any guests may sit behind that.
Now’s the best time to start talking to your teachers about all of your recital options! If you have any questions about the recital, need an accompanist (other than your teacher), or have any scheduling concerns, please contact us at the front desk.
Continue to practice every day as you have been, and we look forward to seeing you on stage at the Living Arts Centre on June 15th, 16th, 22nd and 23rd!
Whether you’re attending our recital for the first time or are a returning participant, we invite you to view our Winter recital videos on the MFAA YouTube channel. Immerse yourself in fellow students’ performances and let their artistry inspire you. Click HERE
We look forward to seeing you dazzle the stage with your talent at the Living Arts Centre on June 14th, 15th, 21st, and 22nd!
MFAA team
Celebrating Our Students’ RCM Exam Success! 🎶✨
At Mississauga Fine Arts Academy, we take great pride in celebrating our students’ hard work and achievements. Recently, several of our dedicated musicians successfully completed their Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams, demonstrating their commitment to musical excellence.
The RCM program is a highly respected curriculum that helps students build strong technical skills, musicality, and a deep understanding of their instruments. Preparing for these exams requires discipline, perseverance, and guidance from skilled instructors, and we are thrilled to recognize our students’ outstanding accomplishments:
🎹 Victoria C. – Piano RCM Prep B – 91% First Class Honours with Distinction (Teacher Mr. Robert)
🎹 Maha A. – Piano. RCM Level 1 – 84% First Class Honor (Teacher: Mr. Robert)
🎹 Shreya K. – Piano, RCM Level 3 – 84% First Class Honor (Teacher: Ms. Tao)
🎶 Justin D. – Theory, RCM Level 8 – 97% First Class Honor with Distinction (Teacher: Ms. Tao)
🎹 Emma W. – Piano. Went from level 3 to level 7 in less than a year (Teacher Ms. Tao)
🎹 Jamie L.- Piano, RCM Level 2 – 83% First Class Honor (Teacher: Ms. Lesya)
These results reflect the students’ dedication and the unwavering support of their teachers and families. RCM exams challenge students to refine their technique, develop musical expression, and deepen their knowledge of music theory, all contributing to their growth as musicians.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Victoria C., Maha A., Shreya K., Justin D., Emma W., and Jamie L. on their achievements! Their success inspires fellow students and is a testament to the incredible talent within our MFAA community. Keep up the great work, and we look forward to seeing where your musical journey takes you next!
Student of The Month
Wen Li J.!
Congratulations to Wen Li J., our Student of the Month! Wen Li began her piano journey in December of 2023 under the guidance of her teacher, Ms. Lesya, Wen Li has been making fantastic progress and showcasing her dedication to music. Let’s hear what her teacher, Ms. Lesya, says about her progress!
“Wen Li has been my student for one year and three months. In this short period, she has completed grades 3, 4, and 5 RCM. She is not only a hard-working student but has excellent results from her efforts. She enjoys difficult songs and is not afraid to face any challenges. This progress is indeed very impressive, reflecting not only hard work but also tremendous talent. “ – Ms. Lesya.
We also asked Irene a few questions. Here are her answers.
What instrument(s) do you play? – Piano.
How long have you been taking lessons? – One year and three months.
What is your favourite song to play? – “O Holy Night” and “Harmony of Angels”.
What is your favourite food? – Apples.
What is your favourite thing you’ve learned in class recently? – Playing anything in G-major and challenging myself.
What is your favourite colour? – Light pink.
Congratulations, Wen Li, on this well-deserved recognition! Keep reaching for new musical heights!
Musical Ladder Achievements
Kiara O. is taking vocal lessons and her teacher is Mr. Miguel
Rodrigo C. is taking vocal and guitar lessons, and his teachers are Mr. Miguel and Mr. Aaron
Becca W. is playing piano and her teacher is Ms. Anastasiya
Aditya J. is playing piano and his teacher is Mr. Riley
Student Spotlight: Audrey C.!
Since 2018, Audrey has been honing her piano skills under the guidance of Ms. Vira at Mississauga Fine Arts Academy. Her dedication and passion for music have been evident in every performance, from recitals to personal achievements in her musical studies.
Through years of disciplined practice and artistic growth, Audrey has developed remarkable technical proficiency and expressive playing. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her ability to interpret complex pieces with precision and emotion.
Audrey’s musical journey inspires those around her, and we proudly celebrate her accomplishments. We look forward to seeing where her talent and dedication take her next!
A Word from Ms. Vira
Audrey has been a dedicated student at Mississauga Fine Arts Academy for over seven years and recently earned her Adept Musical Ladder Trophy! She successfully completed her RCM Level 3 Practical Piano Exam in January 2025 and is now preparing for Level 4.
Beyond her exam repertoire, Audrey is passionate about cinematic music from Japan, performing pieces like Déjà vu by Uki Violeta, River Flows in You by Yiruma, and Summer of Farewells by Kiochi Sakata. She showcased her talent at our June and December 2024 recitals and gave back to the community with a heartfelt performance at Parkland on the Glen Retirement Home in July 2025.
This spring, Audrey joined our Chamber Strings Program as a collaborative pianist, excelling as an ensemble member. She will also take the stage at our annual Faculty Concert on May 4, 2025, at the RBC Theatre, performing alongside twelve musicians in a program featuring Trooper by Iron Maiden, Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson, and an original piece, Stuck by Lena Burmenko.
It is a joy and a pleasure to work with Audrey in our lessons and rehearsals! She demonstrates creativity, an excellent sense of rhythm and musicality, and a deep appreciation for various musical genres. Audrey collaborates exceptionally well with others, always showing respect and kindness. Having her at our school and our String Ensembles is a privilege!
Audrey’s creativity, musicality, and teamwork make her an invaluable part of our school.
Way to go, Audrey! We’re excited to see all that you will accomplish next!
More Friends, More Fun, More Music! Bring a Friend Week in April!
We’re excited to invite you to Bring a Friend Week, happening from April 11th to 18th, 2025! This is your chance to share your love for music and the wonderful experience at Mississauga Fine Arts Academy with a friend.
How to Participate:
🎵 Bring your friend to your lesson, or pick up an invitation at the front desk.
🎵 Your friend can book one free lesson on any instrument by appointment.
🎵 Both you and your friend will be entered into our BIG Prize Draw, held quarterly!
Earn Rewards:
🎁 $25 Gift Card for every friend who signs up for recurring lessons.
🎁 Your friend will enjoy FREE registration (a $25 value!).
Plus, enjoy free snacks and refreshments throughout Bring a Friend Week! 🥤🍪
Who Can Participate?
You don’t have to be a current student to refer a friend—this opportunity is open to everyone!
How to Get Started:
📞 Call or text us at 905-276-0251
📧 Email us at info@mississaugafineartsacademy.com
📝 Fill out our simple form HERE and mention “Bring a Friend Week” to book a session.
Classes are by appointment only, so reserve your spot soon!
It’s a fantastic way to share the joy of music and introduce someone new to the MFAA community. We can’t wait to meet your friends and make music together! 🎶
See you at Bring a Friend Week!
Welcome New and Returning Students in March!
Daisy Z
Haajra M
Hadia M
Jonathan T
Thu Thao L
Jamie C
Zuzanna G
Adam K
Sara K
Padmavathi V
Avery H
Milad S
Rebecca C
Leo N
Liam N
Emily Madeleine L
Melody G
Avneesh S
Angelica Grace M
Charlize Hoang-P
Liam C
Mira B
Valeria Arce B
Juan Tom P
My H
Sandhya R
Ziiva S
Arnik D
Matvei C
Marcus D
Alireza J
Zoe A
Is Your Teacher Fully Booked?
Many teachers are very popular and quickly become fully booked. If you need a schedule change or would like to be added to a waiting list for a particular teacher, day, or time, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can add you to the waiting list. There are still limited lesson spots available. To inquire about an opening in April, send an e-mail to info@mississaugafineartsacademy.com or call/text us at 905-276-0251.
Here is a partial list of who’s currently full:
Guitar
Aaron T.: Only TWO spots left
Abi A.: Only ONE spot left
Enoch L: All Days SOLD OUT
Max M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Mckayla G: Only TWO spots left
Michael G.: Only TWO spots left
Miguel R.: All Days SOLD OUT
Noah C.: All Days SOLD OUT
Zoë S.: Only TWO spots left
Bass
Abi A: All Days SOLD OUT
Enoch L: All Days SOLD OUT
Owen B.: Only ONE spot left
Max M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Michael G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Violin
Anna B.: Only TWO spots left
Abigail H.: All Days SOLD OUT
Anastasiya B: All Days SOLD OUT
Maryalice D.: Only TWO spots left
Mariya P: Only ONE spot left
Sibiya R.: Only TWO spots left
Vira B.: All Days SOLD OUT
Ukulele
Enoch L: All Days SOLD OUT
Kryslyne A.: Only ONE spot left
Max M: All Days SOLD OUT
Mckayla G: Only TWO spots left
Miguel R.: Only ONE spot left
Noah C.: All Days SOLD OUT
Owen B.: All Days SOLD OUT
Piano
Abi A.: All Days SOLD OUT
Amjad A.: All Days SOLD OUT
Anastasiya B: All Days SOLD OUT
Angela W.: All Days SOLD OUT
Anna B.: Only TWO spots left
Ashiya S.: Only TWO spots left
Carrie C: All Days SOLD OUT
Daniel K: Only TWO spots left
Enoch L: All Days SOLD OUT
Geoff M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Ivica B: All Days SOLD OUT
John Carlo (JC) A.: Only TWO spots left
Lesley L: Only TWO spots left
Lesya K.: All Days SOLD OUT
Mariana C.: All Days SOLD OUT
Mariya P: Only One spot left
Maryalice D.: Only TWO spots left
Max M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Mckayla G: Only TWO spots left
Michael G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Oksana I: Sunday Open
Olivia Y.: All Days SOLD OUT
Owen B.: All Days SOLD OUT
Noah C: All Days SOLD OUT
Robert M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Sam L.: All Days SOLD OUT
Stella L.: All Days SOLD OUT
Tao Z.: Only TWO spots left
Vira B.: All Days SOLD OUT
Voice
Abi A.: All Days SOLD OUT
Abigail H.: Only TWO spots left
André R.: Only ONE spot left
Emily M: Only TWO spots left
Ivica B: All Days SOLD OUT
Kryslyne A.: Only ONE spot left
Miguel R.: Only ONE spot left
Noah C.: Only TWO spots left
Sam M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Zoë S.: Only ONE spot left
Animal Adventures (Toddler Program)
Abi A.: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
Noah C.: Tuesday
Drums
Glenn M.: Only ONE spot left
John Carlo (JC) A.: Only TWO spots left
Noah C.: All Days SOLD OUT
Cello
Abigail H.: All Days SOLD OUT
Angela W.: All Days SOLD OUT
Sibiya R.: Only ONE spot left
Woodwinds
Amjad A.: All Days SOLD OUT
André R.: All Days SOLD OUT
Riley M: ONLY TWO spots left
Zoë S.: Only THREE spots left
Brass
André R.: All Days SOLD OUT
Zoë S.: Only TWO spots left
