"My 6 year old daughter, Riley, has a love for piano and I can attribute that to the passion, the patience and the teachings of Ms Dawne. About a year ago, we were fortunate enough to have Ms Dawne join our Church, as the head of the music ministry. She brought with her all of her talent and a new, fresh vibe to our Sunday mornings. My daughters (6 years old and 3 years old) joined the Children’s Choir under Ms Dawne’s leadership and it became evident that something special was happening at the Church in Brielle. After only a few weeks of children’s choir, my 6 year old daughter started piano lessons with Ms Dawne. It is truly unbelievable to see her progress; in her ability, in her passion and in her love of the piano. I feel utterly blessed to have Ms Dawne in our lives. I love to see how she can push and challenge Riley. After knowing Ms Dawne for less than a year, it feels like she is an intricate part of our lives. Riley looks forward to her lessons and her time with Ms Dawne, and I cannot wait to see what the next year of lessons and learning brings!"
“As a certified cantor, I have been taking vocal lessons with Ms. Dawne Mechlinski for a few years. People have actually come up to me to tell me they notice an improvement in my singing! It is so important to keep learning and improving our “instrument”, even if that instrument is our voice. I love my lessons and I loved working with Dawne!"
Dr. Karen Gray, adult student
“Wow - this (recital video) is amazing! And obviously a lot of time, work, and thought went into it. Thank you all for putting this together so beautifully! Our family all viewed and enjoyed it together last night! So uplifting and hopeful in these strange, uncertain times!”
Alexandra Ross, mother of student Paulina
“Dawne has been an outstanding vocal instructor for my daughter. When my daughter first started taking lessons with Dawne, she was a budding singer, and with Dawne's guidance and expertise, has been transformed into an accomplished vocalist and certified cantor. Dawne recognizes the unique talent and potential in each student, encourages them to do their very best resulting in tremendous growth in both confidence and skill. Dawne cares greatly for each student combining her knowledge, compassion, and love for music.”
C Caufield. Mother of senior student Tess R
"I finally had the opportunity to watch this wonderful production! Everyone worked so hard and it was wonderful to see so much progress. Keep up the wonderful work!!";
(referencing the 2020 Virtual 70s Studio Recital)
GM Michelini – Founder of the Showcase Arts Foundation Inc, Rising Stars, and MC 2
"The gift you gave to both of my children will be with them forever." M Higgins, mother of senior piano student Kiera in her 10th year of study and graduated voice student Mia who completed her studies after 11 years.
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“I had the honor and privilege to be a participant in Studios 24th Annual Recital in Manasquan, NJ, fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing the piano. I am so happy and blessed that I was able to perform the piece, “Edelweiss”, was told it sounded great, with rousing applause and Andy's (my husband) tears of joy said it all! …a special thank you to my teacher, Dawne Mechlinski for your patience, guidance, and teaching expertise!
You have the gift of bringing out the best in all your students! Feeling blessed and thankful!”
Meta Jensen, adult student
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“Dawne Mechlinski is a talented music professional whom we met at our church where she is the music director. Our daughter joined the children's choir and has had a great experience there. We wanted to enhance her skill so we signed her up for private lessons with Ms Dawne and have never looked back.
That was more than 2 years ago. Ms. Dawne is a talented, upbeat musician and a natural teacher. She cultivates a close relationship with her students. Our daughter has gained self-confidence through her participation in the annual recital, holiday carol presentations at the assisted living centers, and weekly liturgy services. Ms. Dawne always encourages respect for others and values each person's individual unique abilities and gifts. Our daughter has benefited very much from her exposure to Ms. Dawnes high musical standards and example. It is especially fun to attend the annual recital each year, not only because it's fun and entertaining but because we are able to witness the musical growth of our daughter and that of the many talented students.”
M Saracco, mom of 4th-year student Rita
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“The song ( I sang) from A Chorus Line, “What I Did For Love,” is sung when the Chorus Line is asked how they would feel if they could no longer dance. That is their life. That is what they love. Even though we did not expect a virtual recital (due to the COVID pandemic), we readily accepted the challenge because music is what we love. If you listen to the lyrics and the message of the song, you will know that is also why Ms. Dawne teaches all of us. She wants her students to succeed and always encourages us to try new things so that we can be our best selves. So, we would like to dedicate the next song with our love to Ms. Dawne!”
Mia Higgins, 11 year graduated student
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