Business Details
Music Lessons & Art Classes in Calgary
Welcome to Cornerstone Music, where music, art, and community converge in the heart of Calgary. Founded by Sylvia and Jim Johnston, our establishment blends decades of family heritage in music education and hospitality to create a unique space for creative growth. Our team of seasoned instructors brings diverse expertise, from classical to contemporary music, while our art classes foster creativity through hands-on exploration of various mediums. We prioritize a welcoming environment where all ages can learn, collaborate, and thrive.With flexible options like in-home lessons and structured group programs, we ensure accessibility without compromising quality. Our commitment to community is reflected in live events, summer camps, and intergenerational initiatives that celebrate artistic expression. Backed by transparent policies and a focus on student-teacher collaboration, we strive to be Calgarys premier destination for holistic creative education.
Services
Music Lessons
Art Classes
In-Home Lessons
Group Classes
Summer Camps
Live Music Events
Voice Training
Piano Instruction
Drum Lessons
Caf Services
Highlights and features
- Experienced instructors with professional performance backgrounds.
- Inclusive programs for ages 18 months to 70+ years.
- Integrated music and art curriculum for holistic creativity.
- Family-owned with deep local community ties.
- Flexible learning options: in-studio, in-home, or group settings.
Services
Music Lessons
Professional instruction in guitar, piano, violin, and more for all skill levels. Our Royal Conservatory-certified teachers combine technical mastery with performance opportunities in recitals and rock bands. Students develop musicality through personalized curricula that balance classical foundations with modern styles.
Art Classes
Guided art instruction covering drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media for children and adults. Classes emphasize skill development while encouraging personal expression. Instructors like Erin Gartner integrate therapeutic approaches to foster confidence and emotional exploration through art-making.
In-Home Lessons
Customized music education delivered to Calgary homes with flexible scheduling. Parents appreciate the convenience of learning in familiar environments while maintaining access to our qualified instructors. Substitute options and online transitions ensure consistent progress regardless of circumstances.
Summer Camps
Week-long programs combining music composition, band collaboration, and visual arts projects for ages 6-16. Campers create original songs, rehearse ensemble pieces, and participate in wellness activities. Culminating performances showcase skills developed during intensive, immersive sessions.
Group Classes
Social learning environments from toddler music exploration to teen rock bands. Classes like Melodic Movers use Orff-based methodologies to develop rhythm and coordination. Older students benefit from peer collaboration in structured settings that build both technical ability and performance confidence.
People
Sylvia Johnston
Owner
Combines hospitality expertise with global cultural experiences to shape Cornerstone's community-focused vision. Oversees operations while maintaining connections through international travel and local engagement.
Jim Johnston
Co-Founder
Professional drummer and educator with performance experience in major ensembles. Integrates musical heritage from his grandmother Cecille into teaching philosophy while managing studio operations.
Georgina Craig
Program Manager
Classically trained mezzo-soprano with UK conservatory credentials. Develops curriculum and teaches singing, flute, and music theory while leading early childhood programs like Harmony Playground.
Erin Gartner
Art Instructor
12-year art education veteran incorporating therapeutic techniques. Specializes in creating inclusive environments where students explore emotions through mediums like painting and sculpture.
Jennifer Francis
Art Instructor
Calgary-based painter with Red Seal culinary design background. Teaches oil, acrylic, and watercolor techniques while fostering creative confidence in students of all experience levels.
Questions
What music lesson formats do you offer?
We provide in-studio, in-home, and online lessons for guitar, piano, drums, and more. Group classes and summer camps combine music with art activities for all ages.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes! Recitals, rock band showcases, and summer camp concerts let students demonstrate skills. Group classes include collaborative jam sessions and solo performance practice.
What art classes are available for adults?
Nature-inspired painting, mixed media workshops, and skill-building courses for beginners to advanced artists. Classes focus on personal expression while developing technical abilities in various mediums.
Do you teach very young children?
Our Melodic Movers program accepts toddlers aged 18 months-3 years. Preschoolers (3+) can join Harmony Playground for music-and-movement sessions with parent participation required.
How do in-home lessons work?
Teachers bring instruments and materials to your home. Lessons follow the same structure as studio sessions with flexible rescheduling options. Parents receive progress updates and can observe sessions.
What happens if a lesson needs to be canceled?
Students must provide 1 month notice to cancel lessons. Missed sessions without notice aren't refunded. Sick students switch to online format using pre-arranged platforms like Zoom.
