Best known in Westchester as the founder and director of Music in Chappaqua (MIC), Angie Angier based her very successful and multi-faceted school on her vision that the benefits of music education extend far beyond the music.

 

Angie's journey in music began at a remarkably young age. Her passion for the art form was evident even in her teenage years when she started teaching piano to friends and family at just 13 years old. This early immersion set the stage for her subsequent accomplishments and laid the foundation for what would become a multifaceted career.

Her formal education culminated in graduating with honors from the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music, where she advanced her skills and deepened her understanding of performance. Her professional endeavors took her across the globe, where she performed with esteemed orchestras such as the Taiwan National Symphony and the Vienna Symphonietta. These experiences undoubtedly enriched her musical palette and honed her skills as a performer.

However, Angie's true calling revealed itself not solely in her performances but in her role as an organizer and inspirer within musical education. Driven by her innate passion for music, and recognizing her ability to nurture young musicians' talents, she focused on fostering musical activities among the youth. Angie's innovative and ambitious approach to programming reflects her dedication to bringing out the best in people while instilling in them a lifelong enthusiasm for music; she creates environments where individuals can thrive creatively, cultivating a deep-seated passion for music that extends far beyond the classroom or stage.

 

Through her work, Angie has inspired aspiring musicians, guiding them on a path of artistic discovery and personal growth. Her dedication to cultivating the next generation of musical talent underscores the transformative power of music education in shaping lives and enriching communities.

In her own words, Angie encapsulates the essence of her mission: "We bring out the best in people while imparting a lifelong love of music." This sentiment underscores her commitment to nurturing not only talent but also a profound and enduring connection to the art form.

 

When asked what inspired her to open the school, Angie replied, “Knowing the great gifts that my music education has given me, I opened Music in Chappaqua to help others benefit in the same ways I have. I was inspired to start MIC from a young age, having noticed the incredible benefits of music education. In addition to learning to play music, other benefits I received included self-expression, confidence, self-discipline, and memory.”

 

Since 1993, students from Chappaqua, Pleasantville, Armonk, Briarcliff Manor, Millwood, and Northern Westchester have reaped the benefits of MIC’s diverse music classes and workshops. Programs include private lessons in most instruments, New York Rock Academy Summer Day Camp, indie workshops, early childhood group classes, and many more. This wide range of offerings allows students to explore what they are interested in today. As Angie explains, “Rather than applying a ‘one size fits all’ approach, our highly trained faculty customizes curriculum catered toward each student’s individual goals, interests, and abilities. By allowing students to play an integral role in their course of study, they are self-driven to practice at home and work towards achieving their dreams.”

Angie continues, "The advantages of music lessons aren't confined to the classroom. When you start learning to play an instrument, you engage various skills, such as visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic abilities. Unlike some other activities, playing an instrument stimulates both hemispheres of the brain, promoting intellectual prowess, physical coordination, patience, and confidence. Moreover, music provides a channel for emotional expression, fostering a child's emotional growth."

 

The latest news at MIC is the excitement of welcoming various new faculty members, including private guitar teacher Pete Scholes. Pete has taught for over 15 years, catering to students of all levels, styles, and ages. Also, for local woodwind students, welcoming David Zoschnick, who is the ideal teacher to help students fall in love with the oboe. David brings genuine passion and excitement for the instrument to each lesson, approaching from a vocal standpoint how the oboe can mimic the human voice.

 

Angie's story serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of music and the profound impact one individual can have in shaping the musical landscape for generations to come.

 

Originally from Montreal, Angie moved to Chappaqua in 1993. She has three children, ages 25, 22, and 14, along with two loveable dogs. Her family enjoys traveling for skiing, hiking, and exploring new countries. She is also a lover of philanthropic ventures and has always been involved in great causes through Music in Chappaqua. Her dream is to help with animal rights.  

As she looks ahead to the years to come, Angie finds comfort in knowing that music will continue to be a constant companion, growing and maturing alongside her. In the words of Paul Simon, "Music is forever," and for Angie, that sentiment rings undeniably true.

 

 

 

SAVE THE DATE

Music In Chappaqua is celebrating 30 Years with a party for all! Crescendo, open to the public, Thursday, May 16, 2024, 6-8p.