Common Chord — January 2026

Monthly insights and musical guidance from Dr. Bob Lawrence

A publication of The Dallas School of Music

Common Chord is a monthly reflection from the Director of The Dallas School of Music. Each issue offers insight into music education, student development, and the values that guide our teaching community. These essays are written as an ongoing record of learning—what we’re practicing, discovering, and refining together as students, families, and educators.

FROM THE DIRECTOR

The beginning of a new year always welcomes reflection, but at The Dallas School of Music, it also invites intention.

Music education does not move forward simply because the calendar turns. Progress happens when students, parents, and teachers share clarity about how learning unfolds and why consistent effort matters. January gives us a natural opportunity to reset expectations, reaffirm values, and recommit to the process of learning music the right way.

At DSM, we believe that meaningful musical growth is built on strong fundamentals, thoughtful instruction, and patience. Whether a student is taking their very first lesson or refining advanced repertoire, the goal remains the same: develop musical understanding that lasts well beyond a single performance, recital, or semester.

One of the most common misconceptions in music education is that progress should always be immediate and visible. In reality, much of the most important growth happens quietly. Improved listening, increased awareness, better posture, stronger rhythmic stability, and deeper musical confidence often develop gradually, lesson by lesson. These are the foundations that allow expression and creativity to flourish later.

As we begin this new year, our focus remains on intentional learning. That means clear weekly objectives, consistent practice routines, and lessons that balance technical development with musical meaning. It also means honoring the individual journey of each student, recognizing that progress looks different for every learner.

Music has the unique ability to teach discipline, patience, resilience, and joy all at once. When approached thoughtfully, it becomes more than a skill—it becomes a lifelong companion. It is a privilege to guide students and families through that journey, and we do not take that responsibility lightly.

Happy New Year and thank you for being part of our community and for trusting us with your musical education. We look forward to another year of steady growth, shared discovery, and meaningful music-making.

— Dr. Bob Lawrence
Director, The Dallas School of Music

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS

As we begin the year, our instructional focus across all instruments is on establishing strong practice habits and clear weekly objectives.

January is a time to slow the process down and ensure that students understand not just what they are practicing, but how and why they are practicing it. Lessons this month emphasize organization, consistency, and thoughtful repetition—skills that form the foundation for meaningful progress throughout the year.

Rather than rushing toward outcomes, we are reinforcing the value of deliberate practice: setting manageable goals, listening carefully, and developing awareness of sound, rhythm, and technique. These habits support confidence, reduce frustration, and allow students to take greater ownership of their musical growth.

This focus applies to every level of study. Strong fundamentals established early—and revisited often—create the conditions for expression, creativity, and long-term success.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

January is often a quiet but meaningful month across our school. After the energy of the holidays, students return to their lessons with a renewed sense of focus, settling back into routines and reconnecting with their instruments.

In studios throughout the building, we are seeing students reestablish consistent practice habits, refine foundational skills, and approach their lessons with greater awareness. Small details—steady posture, careful listening, accurate rhythm, and thoughtful preparation—are becoming part of the daily work. These moments may not always feel dramatic, but they are essential.

We are also grateful for the steady partnership of our families, whose support at home plays a vital role in each student’s progress. Encouragement, structure, and patience create the environment where learning can take root and grow.

This month reminds us that music education is built one lesson at a time. Progress often appears quietly, but its impact is lasting. We are proud of the dedication we see from our students and faculty as we begin another year together.

CODA

Music education is a long conversation—between teacher and student, effort and understanding, patience and progress. Common Chord exists to document that conversation as it unfolds, one month at a time.

Thank you for being part of our learning community and for trusting us with your musical education. We're honored to have the opportunity to help you discover, learn, and play music.