CENTER STAGE
Excellence at The Dallas School of Music is earned through discipline, consistency, and a genuine commitment to growth. Each month, our faculty recognizes one student whose dedication to the craft of music reflects the highest standards of our school. To be featured Center Stage at The Dallas School of Music is a distinct honor — a formal acknowledgment from our educators that this student has demonstrated focus, perseverance, and a meaningful pursuit of musical excellence.
Samuel Martin
Center Stage Honoree
PIANO
Dallas
June 2026
“Recognized for discipline, growth, and musical excellence”
FOUNDATION
TIme at The Dallas School of Music
6 Years
Musical Beginning
"A respected teacher inspired my musical journey."
What drew me to The Dallas School of Music was the outstanding reputation of Dr. Bob Lawrence and the incredible things we heard about his jazz piano instruction. Several people spoke highly of both his teaching style and depth of knowledge, and it seemed like a unique opportunity to learn from someone with such a strong background in jazz.
PRACTICE
A Weekly Practice Approach
"Practice is more than playing—it is learning how to think musically."
My practice routine has changed quite a bit over the years. While earning my degree in music theory, I spent countless hours at the piano every week working on technique, harmony, ear training, transcription, and applying theoretical concepts in a practical way. Since transitioning into a touring career, I’m often on the road without regular access to a keyboard, so my practice has become more focused on mental exercises, score study, arranging, listening, and analyzing music whenever I can. Whenever I do have access to a piano, I make a point to spend dedicated time playing and continuing to develop my jazz vocabulary, technique, and overall musicianship.
DEVELOPMENT
On Challenge
"Consistent practice is the hardest and most important work."
The most challenging part of learning music is the consistent repetition it takes to build and maintain skills. Practicing efficiently each day is imperative to growing as a musician. One day off can set you back if you’re not exercising the music muscles both physically and mentally.
On Achievements
"I learned to understand jazz instead of simply memorize it."
One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of since beginning lessons at The Dallas School of Music has been developing a much deeper understanding of jazz vocabulary and learning how to apply it naturally in my playing. Dr. Bob helped me move beyond simply knowing scales and chords to understanding how great jazz musicians construct lines, voice harmonies, and navigate chord changes. That growth has improved not only my improvisation and piano playing, but also the way I listen to, analyze, arrange, and communicate music professionally.
Growth Beyond Lessons
"Music taught me how to think, work, and connect with others."
Studying music has influenced nearly every area of my life. Academically, it helped shape my decision to pursue a degree in music theory and taught me how to think critically, solve problems, and approach complex ideas with patience and discipline. Professionally, the skills I developed through studying music ultimately led to my career in the live music industry, where I work as a music director, tour manager, and audio engineer. Beyond work and school, music has taught me the value of consistent effort, attention to detail, and lifelong learning. It has also given me opportunities to build meaningful relationships with other musicians and connect with people from a wide variety of backgrounds through a shared love of music.
PERSPECTIVE
On Discipline and Consistency
"Meaningful growth requires high expectations and patient persistence."
I learned to set high expectations for myself while also being patient with the process, understanding that progress often comes from steady work over months and years rather than overnight breakthroughs.
Beyond the Instrument
"Music taught me to think critically and embrace lifelong growth."
Through my lessons with Dr. Bob, I learned how to think critically, approach challenges with curiosity, and commit to a long-term process of growth. The discipline required to develop as a musician taught me the value of preparation, consistency, and attention to detail, while jazz itself encouraged creativity, adaptability, and confidence in decision-making.
On Teaching and Learning
"Stay curious, trust the process, and learn from great teachers."
Progress in music rarely happens overnight, but consistent effort over time produces incredible results. I would also encourage students to be curious, ask questions, and keep an open mind. Most importantly, appreciate the opportunity to learn from great teachers. You’re unlikely to find instructors with the knowledge, experience, and genuine investment in their students that you’ll find at The Dallas School of Music.
MUSICAL IDENTITY
On Artistic Direction
"Studying jazz deepened my understanding of all music."
Right now, I’m most passionate about studying jazz because its influence can be heard in so many contemporary genres, from pop and R&B to gospel, neo-soul, and hip-hop. Understanding jazz gives me a deeper appreciation for the harmony, rhythm, and improvisational concepts that shape much of the music being created today.
On Goals and Aspirations
"I'm learning to make growth possible wherever I am."
I’m working on practicing more on the road!
On the DSM Experience
"DSM challenged me to grow as both a musician and a person."
My experience at The Dallas School of Music has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Studying with Dr. Bob has pushed me to think more deeply about music, approach learning with patience and curiosity, and appreciate the value of consistent, focused work. Beyond developing my jazz piano skills, I've gained a greater understanding of how to think critically, solve problems creatively, and enjoy the process of lifelong learning. DSM has provided an environment where I feel encouraged, supported, and inspired to continue growing as both a musician and a person.
FAMILY PERSPECTIVE
Parent reflections are included when available.
On Growth and Development
Discover • Learn • Play
On Independence and Confidence
Discover • Learn • Play
On Structure and Support
Discover • Learn • Play
Advice to Other Families
Discover • Learn • Play