For the Record

Here’s What They’re Saying

Our professional partners, parents, students, and staff are singing our praises and have shared their thoughts about Little School of Music. Read more about their real-life experiences and discover how we’ve built strong relationships along the way. You can make this kind of impact in your community too.

Partners

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Little School of Music provides a music education program for students of various ages and levels. The music program focuses on enhancing the musical abilities of its students through diverse classes such as private lessons, group sessions, and ensemble participation. The curriculum includes instruction on different instruments and vocal training, with an emphasis on musicianship, theory, and performance skills.

Little School of Music is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity in all its forms. Recognizing the profound impact that a diverse musical community can have on learning and creativity, the school welcomes students from all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. This commitment is reflected in the wide range of musical genres taught, the diversity of its faculty, and the school’s efforts to ensure that its programs are accessible to everyone.

Little School is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). This accreditation confirms the program’s adherence to high educational standards and its effort toward continual improvement. It signals to parents and students that the school fulfills strict criteria for quality and delivers an educational experience beneficial for student learning and achievement. Since 2017, Little School of Music has held accreditation from ACS WASC, during which time WASC has observed the program’s expansion and its significant influence on hundreds of students and families. These families and students recognize the role of music in both a student’s educational development and personal growth journey.

Elizabeth Oberreiter
Vice-President Domestic
Accreditation ACS WASC

Royal Conservatory of Music

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate Little School of Music on its considerable success over many years in providing outstanding instruction and teaching to young people and inculcating them in a love of music. Little School of Music is an excellent example of an institution that serves the community in the best possible way – bringing people together and fostering the human connection made possible through music. We are proud of our 12-year partnership and association with The Little School and look forward to many more decades of meeting the creative, emotional, and intellectual needs of young people. I wish the Little School of Music continued success in the future.

Sincerely,
Dr. Peter Simon
President Emeritus of The Royal Conservatory

EdTechTeacher

EdTechTeacher is a proud partner of the Little School of Music, an innovative franchise that truly understands the value that modern technology plays in high-quality music education. In collaboration with Little School of Music Founder, Mindy Cabral, our world-class instructors provide Little School of Music teachers with an extensive and ongoing training program that enhances their skills and builds confidence in their use of advanced music technology. If you are looking for a music program that provides their students with a modern, cutting-edge experience, look no further than Little School of Music!

Tom Driscoll
EdTech Teacher CEO

Federation of Music Clubs

The perfect place to host a recital or music event. For the past 12 years, we have had our local NFMC Junior Music Festival and events at LSM. Mindy is absolutely amazing. Each year around 200 students perform throughout the day in the beautifully decorated performance halls. The back larger hall has plenty of seating and a raised stage with a gorgeous Yamaha grand piano. The front hall is perfect for smaller recitals or masterclasses, and also has a lovely grand piano. There is a waiting area and plenty of space for checking students in. The facilities are clean and welcoming. For whatever musical event you are planning, Mindy is more than willing to work with you to make it a success. Thank you, Mindy and the Little School of Music staff for helping to make our events such a success.

Virginia Feitelson
Vice President, California Federation of Music Clubs

California Association of Professional Music Teachers (CAPMT)

The Little School of Music has been a cornerstone of musical education and talent cultivation for many years. They take pride in hosting prestigious events such as the CAPMT (California Association of Professional Music Teachers) Piano Auditions and the Royal Conservatory of Music Exams (RCM). These events serve as valuable platforms for students to showcase their skills and receive recognition for their hard work and dedication. The participation in these events strengthens their ties with the local music community and fosters a sense of camaraderie among students, parents, teachers, and music enthusiasts. It also promotes a broader appreciation for music within the community.

Mona Wu DeCesare, NCTM
Immediate Past President, CAPMT
California Association of Professional Music Teachers
Adjunct Professor of Music: Moorpark College

Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)

I was recently invited to do a series of presentations at the Little School of Music in Valencia, CA within the context of a Professional Development Day, created for the faculty of this school by the school’s creator and director, Mindy Cabral. I was so impressed with both the professional setting and the warm and welcoming physical atmosphere of the school. What was especially notable was the dedication of the faculty, clearly evident by the insightful discussion and questions asked throughout the day. This is a knowledgeable, talented, and compassionate faculty!

Ms. Cabral is making a significant contribution to the public by providing this area with high-caliber and caring music instruction. Offering a diverse range of instrumental, vocal, and general music instruction, the Little School of Music provides activities for students that will not only teach them about music but will also help them develop self-confidence and build their self-esteem through a variety of performances and examination opportunities

I really enjoyed meeting Ms. Cabral and the outstanding faculty she has put together. The fact that she places such value on her faculty continuing their education reflects her high standards and desire to ensure all students who study at the Little School of Music have the very best instruction and the most positive educational experiences possible.

Congratulations to the Little School of Music on the excellent work it is doing and the positive impact the school is having on the lives of hundreds of students.
Sincerely, Became

Gail Berenson
Ohio State University College of Fine Arts
Professor Emerita of Piano
Past President, Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)

Southern California Junior Bach Festival

Little School of Music has been the long time venue for Southern California Junior Bach Festival since its opening in 2005. Having such a lovely recital hall is just a dream come true to the local music community. In addition, housing our own branch piano at LSM has been the best thing for the Music Teachers Association of California Santa Clarita Valley branch.

As the chairman of SCJBF, I experienced a very smooth and pleasant partnership with LSM. Mindy Cabrel, the director of LSM has been very supportive in providing the wonderful accommodations and atmosphere to run the festival at its best. Mindy understands the purpose and the function of our festival. She and her school has provided all the necessary facility, furniture, hours, and assistance to make our festival grow to be one of the most significant events to the music community over the last two decade. I could not think of anywhere else to keep growing and running the SCJBF. Bravo to LSM and Mindy!

Agnes Kim
SCJBF Chairman

MTAC SCV Branch

Little School of Music is not only a music school, but a center for other organizations as well. As one of the music instructors here for over ten years, I can attest to all the wonderful music that happens here nearly every day, with group, semi-private, and individual lessons, band rehearsals, and the myriad of performance opportunities.

As a member of the Music Teachers’ Association of California, I’d like to acknowledge all the ways in which our collaborations with Little School of Music have been beneficial. First, and most noteworthy, it is the chosen place to house our MTAC branch’s wonderful Yamaha grand piano. Mindy Cabral at Little School of Music understands the value of such an instrument and helps to keep it in perfect condition and performance ready. Since 2013, Little School of Music has hosted many MTAC events including annual Contemporary Festivals, Romantic Festivals, Sonata/Sonatina Festivals, Branch Recitals, and MTAC members’ individual studio recitals. They have also generously hosted the Certificate of Merit Exams, teacher training, and branch meetings.

SCVMTAC is very proud to have this strong relationship with Little School of Music, and to show off our beautiful-sounding piano in its most perfect environment.

Jean DeMart
MTAC SCV Branch President

WorldStrides

Dear Mindy, BRAVO! Your dedication to both arts education and fostering young talent are a true testament to your leadership as a director. Congratulations on your group’s phenomenal Heritage Festival performance and winning Gold Awards – seeing their talent and dedication shine through on stage was pure magic! Schools like yours are the heart and soul of what we do at WorldStrides.

We are truly grateful for this opportunity you’ve given your young performers. We can’t wait to start creating even more unforgettable experiences together!

Sincerely,
The WorldStrides Performing Arts Team

Parents

This review may be a tad different because it’s reviewing a long-term perspective over a span of 10 years. First off, we LOVE & miss Little School of Music & Miss Mindy so much!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

So, my kids basically grew up in Little School of Music since they were 6 & 8 years old all the way until they were 14 & 16. During these years, my daughter took piano lessons as her main instrument, but along the way had a chance to experience voice lessons, drum lessons, group lessons, harp lessons & most importantly, joined an all-girl pop band group & performed with them at several cool gigs; she is now on keyboards playing weekly at her local youth group for church now because of her foundation nurtured at LSM. My son had drums as his main instrument & also experienced piano lessons, voice lessons, music theory lessons & also joined an all-boy pop band with the opportunity to play at important fun events during his time at LSM; he is now an undergraduate freshman and just got accepted as a part-time student at a School of Worship/Drum stream. This school is super meaningful to him because it is what he wants to pursue further as a drummer, playing his drums in a very personal way for God, as he helps lead worship at church. Entering the school was not easy because the application required two audition videos & was carefully hand-picked to enter.

All this to say, without Miss Mindy’s school, my kids wouldn’t be where they are now with the musical skills they have. Music is for life & this mommy had no idea where they would go with their music lessons, but looking back, if I didn’t invest in their musical journey with consistency & time & of course money, the fulfillment & opportunity of watching my teen kids now enjoying the fruits of their labor would have been gone. It is a pure parental joy hearing & seeing my kids flourish in their musical journey. Attending Little School of Music is like planting a seed of Music into your child’s heart; with time & love, it will grow into something so beautiful. I can’t say it enough, Miss Mindy & LSM & the teachers there will forever hold a special place in my family’s heart forever. We are forever grateful for nurturing the gift of music in their lives.

Elizabeth Bates
Little School of Music Parent

Great music school with very experienced, and dedicated teachers! Very organized place led by competent management! Would recommend to anyone looking for high-quality lessons and exposure to the art of performing in front of audiences.

Kavita Kaur
Little School of Music Parent

I love LSM! It is the perfect mix of caring, talent, socialization, and fun. The instructors love music and their students and love to teach. And Mindy is wonderful. She works hard every day to make LSM an amazing place for kids and adults to learn and love music. My son takes ukulele lessons and loves to play so much he carries his ukulele with him everywhere. Thanks for being part of our family’s life!

Peter Waschak
Little School of Music Parent

We love Little School of Music! We are so lucky to have an accredited music school in our neighborhood. The instructors and staff are all excellent!

Janelle Meldrum
Little School of Music Parent

My son has been in this school for 13 years and loves music. Incredible, personalized attention and professionalism.

Kinder Hunt
Little School of Music Parent

My child has been at Little School of Music for 2 months now taking Music for Little Mozarts level 2. We taught him piano at home, using one finger. Now he is playing with both hands and can read music. The program exceeded what we could teach him and our expectations. He loves going to class and doing the various learning games and activities. Miss Mindy is awesome. Homework (workbook and practice) are assigned weekly, so be prepared to have your child practice 20 minutes a day.

Dan Kado
Little School of Music Parent

A wonderful place for children to learn a lifelong love and appreciation for music.

David Kopp
Little School of Music Parent

Professional

Little School of Music has the perfect venue for my studio recitals. Not only is the room wonderful for families and friends to see students performing, the Yamaha grand piano is amazing. It is so special to be able to give my students this amazing opportunity to perform.

Madeline Miller, Private Teacher

I held my annual recital at Little School of Music for the second year in a row and it did not disappoint! The venue is beautiful and can accommodate up to 100 people, which is perfect for my 20 students.

Mindy is phenomenal to work with and was so accommodating and sweet. She has the room and stage set up beautifully upon arrival and is very helpful. I cannot say enough great things about Mindy and Little School of Music.

Jill Newbold, Private Teacher

I taught at Little School of Music for 11 years and even as an adult, you can’t help but feel the excitement about making music that you felt as a child. The school is simultaneously inspiring yet protective in the best way possible. The camaraderie of the faculty and staff creates a wonderful feeling of comfort and support that is often absent from many extracurricular music schools. Little School of Music is what music education should be: helping students find their sense of individual artistry, taste and discipline as soloists; and then bringing that to bear on a shared ensemble experience involving listening, teamwork and pride in your friend’s achievements.

Max Mueller, Film Composer
Former Little School of Music Instructor

Staff

Working under Mindy’s leadership has been an enriching experience, to say the least. Mindy consistently demonstrates a relentless pursuit of improvement and efficiency in all aspects of the business. Her unwavering commitment to staying ahead of the curve, whether it be through adopting new technologies or embracing innovative programs, sets a remarkable example. Unlike many businesses stuck in conventional practices, Mindy remains refreshingly flexible and open-minded, always ready to adapt and evolve.

One of Mindy’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to strike a perfect balance between exceptional customer service and maintaining firm boundaries. Despite the demands of managing both parents and staff, Mindy’s interpersonal skills shine through, ensuring that everyone feels heard while still upholding her authority as the leader of our organization.

Mindy’s dedication to fostering growth, both for students and staff, is truly inspiring. She possesses an innate talent for recognizing individual strengths and weaknesses and providing unwavering support while encouraging alignment with our business standards. Her personal investment in the journeys of both students and educators creates a supportive and nurturing environment where everyone feels valued. Mindy’s holistic approach to leadership benefits not only our team but also enhances the experience for our students.

Furthermore, Mindy sets an exemplary standard for herself, constantly seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth. Her commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement is infectious, fostering a culture of progress and positivity within our organization. Rather than settling for the status quo, Mindy approaches every challenge with the mindset that ‘everything is a work in progress,’ inspiring us all to strive for excellence.

Mindy’s leadership is characterized by her unwavering dedication to improvement, her exceptional interpersonal skills, and her commitment to nurturing growth. It’s an honor to work under her guidance, and her influence extends far beyond the confines of the business. Mindy is not just a boss; she’s a mentor, a role model, and a friend.

Michelle Smirnoff
Little School of Music Staff

I first started teaching at Little School of Music in the fall of 2015. I had been teaching for over 30 years, with the last 15 here in Santa Clarita. I was brought on to help with band classes that LSM was providing for a local charter school. At first I took charge of a group of teenage guitar players that were unable to read music, so we formed a guitar ensemble. Later we expanded into more classes with the charter school, including a middle school band, high school jazz ensemble, and some high school rock bands.

It was at this time that I became very impressed with LSM: its mission, facilities, and the work of owner Mindy Cabral in ensuring the highest quality musical experience for both students and staff. One of the highlights of this time was our work in becoming a WASC accredited institution. I soon started teaching private lessons in guitar, bass and uke, and also started directing ensembles consisting of many LSM private instruction students.

The 2020 pandemic provided unique challenges for all music educators, and I feel as though LSM was at the forefront of adapting to online teaching. We had already started organizing lesson plans through Google Drive, and quickly became fluent in using zoom, as well as adapting to the audio requirements that are unique to online music education. It was during this time that Mindy encouraged us to create unique online classes. I developed online improvisation and theory classes that helped fill the performance void for our previous band students.

It’s been wonderful to be a part of a staff school and staff that is so committed to the well being of their students. Mindy continues to encourage and train the staff in the development of new classes. I’m looking forward to continuing working with the bands and private students, as well as possibly developing some ensembles for adult musicians in the near future.

Frank Browne
Little School of Music Lead Instructor

Working at Little School of Music is an incredible experience! It’s a privilege to be a part of such a smart and supportive group of people, led by the immaculate Miss Mindy! I feel like I have the space I need to teach in my own style, but can also reach out for support whenever I need it. In my first year here I’ve learned so much about different curriculum, digital tools, and other nuances that have all helped me grow. This facility is more than just basic music lessons! There are also recitals, group classes, and even rock bands! Little School of Music is a gift for any teacher ready to hone their skills and share the joy of music.

Rich Brown
Little School of Music Instructor

LSM is the most professional private music school that I’ve been able to teach at. They provide structure and support for me as a teacher, and allow me to focus on lesson content and student progress. LSM offers much more than a typical music school, with different programs to help students progress from complete beginner, to intermediate, and all the way to pre-college. Between the recitals, ensembles, group classes, exams, and more we are giving students a comprehensive music education and a community of peers to learn from as well.

Armando Wood
Little School of Music Instructor