Studio 88
Hamburg Area’s Center for
Music Lessons

The Hamburg Journal recently sat down with Studio 88 owner
Beth Mankel to discuss her music studio at 3270 Blazer Parkway.

HJ: “Your studio has come a long way in a short time hasn’t it?”

Beth: “In the Fall of 2006 I opened Studio 88 with great expectations. I wanted students and parents to have a professional, business environment to come and learn music. I started with 5 full size digital pianos and hopes that my dream would come to fruition. In the last 3 years, I have reached my goal of having at least three other teachers in the studio teaching other instruments. Little did I know that when I opened Studio 88, so many people would get on board and grasp my vision. I started with 55 students in group piano lessons. Now, just 3 years later, along with guitar, voice and acting teachers, there are over 100 students in the studio each week!”

HJ: “Why did you start Studio 88?”

Beth: “I have been playing piano and singing since I was 5 years old. I want my students to have the opportunities that I have had to learn and become a musician, not just a ‘piano player’. Not only do I want young people to have the opportunity to play piano, I want to offer other instruments. I have always believed that if you surround yourself with other people who are extremely talented that it will continually make you a better teacher and musician. I feel I am accomplishing this at the studio.”

HJ: “What is your background?”

Beth: “I have a degree in Piano Performance as well as my teacher certification. I have been teaching music for over 20 years. I have performed in many ensembles, bands, and various groups. I also sing and play piano for weddings and receptions. Before starting my studio, I was Music Director at Crossroads Christian Church for ten years.”

HJ: “Tell me about the other instructors at the studio.”

Beth: “The guitar teacher at the studio, Chris Weiss, is an excellent guitarist and teacher. He holds a Degree in Music from the University of Kentucky and is also Director of Music at South Elkhorn Christian Church. He plays in different musical venues around town and continues to grow as a musician.

Former guitar instructor, Charley Baker, recently moved to New York City to further develop his musical career. I am thankful for the contribution that he made to the studio and the impact he had on his students.
Jeff Day, one of the vocal teachers at the studio, is the Director of the Drama program at Asbury College. He is a vibrant and creative teacher and person. In addition to vocal instruction he also teaches acting. Jeff will begin filming his first feature film,“Unrequited” in July. This is a huge step in his career and we are very excited for him.

In January, Steve Edens joined me at the studio to teach voice. Steve is an incredible talent and teaches with enthusiasm and love of his craft. His passion is to work with students of all levels of ability and desire, including those who want to become professional singers.”

HJ: “You have established an impressive level of professionalism at Studio 88. What do you see for the future?”

Beth: “The students at Studio 88 are on the ‘ground floor’ of an amazing opportunity that continues to grow and develop my vision of creating future musicians. I am excited that I can continue to add and expand as needed to accommodate other musicians teaching and sharing their gifts. This year at the Spring Program, parents and students were able to watch piano, guitar and vocal students perform together in various roles. How many opportunities do you know of that children can perform together in a band situation at such young ages? How cool is THAT!?

Our students not only learn to play an instrument, they learn theory, technique and music appreciation. I am very appreciative of the job that the music teachers are doing in the school system. With the unfortunate decline of support for arts and music education in our schools today, I am excited to be able to offer this enrichment in their lives.”

HJ: “Where can our readers find out more?”

Beth: “To find out more about the studio and what parents are saying about it, visit the website www.bethstudio88.com.”

I would like to encourage anyone who is interested in being a part of something cutting edge and exciting, to join me at the studio. We also offer adult lessons whether you are a beginner or someone who wants to brush up on skills that you may have put on the backburner when you were younger. “

HJ: “Final thoughts?”

Beth: “I want to thank all the parents who continue to support the studio and my vision. Oh, and in case you are still scratching your head wondering “why did she name it studio 88?!” There are 88 keys on the piano. Your first lesson has just begun….”