There’s a special kind of magic that happens when children discover music—not just notes and rhythms, but confidence, connection, and the joy of creating something together. Over the years, Durango Montessori School and Stillwater Music have shared a meaningful relationship built on that very magic, providing young students with a musical environment where curiosity thrives.
For two years, my Hideaway Ukulele Studio had the privilege of teaching ukulele to Montessori students. Every week, I watched small hands find big courage as they learned chords, sang together, and started to see themselves as musicians. What made it even more rewarding was knowing that many of these students had experienced Stillwater programs before—and that our classroom was just one part of a musical journey shaped by multiple caring teachers and opportunities throughout the community.
Stillwater Music remains a place where young people from all backgrounds can explore music in a supportive, collaborative setting. Their ensembles, their variety of instruments, and their gifted teachers create an environment where students feel welcome and inspired. For children coming from a small, student-centered school like Durango Montessori, Stillwater’s programs offer an ideal extension of their natural, hands-on learning style. It’s where they can grow through rhythm, melody, teamwork, and creative expression.
What I love most is seeing Montessori students walk into a Stillwater class and immediately recognize something familiar—the feeling of belonging. The encouragement. The spark. Whether they’re drawn to strings, percussion, voice, guitar, or world music, Stillwater helps them discover new passions while strengthening those they already have.
This year marks an exciting new chapter as Stillwater merges with the Be Frank Foundation, two organizations whose missions align perfectly in supporting youth arts education across Southwest Colorado. Together, they are increasing access, enhancing programs, and creating new opportunities for students to excel both musically and creatively.
Partnerships like these remind me why arts education is so important. It’s not just about learning an instrument—it’s about giving kids the tools to explore, collaborate, and express themselves with confidence and joy.
To Stillwater Music, Durango Montessori School, and the Be Frank Foundation—congratulations on this meaningful step forward together. Our region’s young musicians are in wonderfully caring hands.
