At Notre Dame Preparatory School (NDP), the arts play a crucial role in nurturing the minds and spirits of students. Within the school’s Performing Arts Department, the Piano Program has flourished into one of the most comprehensive and dynamic offerings in the region over the past seven years under the leadership of Doris Yousfi, Upper Level and Middle Level Piano Teacher.“It’s truly remarkable to see how far we’ve come. When I first started at NDP, we had two piano courses: a Piano 6 course and one high school course,” recalls Yousfi. “Now, we have a cohesive program spanning grades 6 through 12, including Piano 6, Piano 7, Piano 8, and five sections of high school piano that cater to students from beginner to advanced levels.” A Program Like No Other in the RegionThe piano program at NDP stands out for its inclusivity and range. Students from all grades, whether they are beginners or seasoned musicians, can enroll as part of their arts elective. This accessibility means that even seniors with no prior piano experience can join the program simply to enjoy learning a new skill. “This year, I had multiple seniors sign up who had never played piano before, and they found it to be a fun, creative course,” says Yousfi.Each class is conducted in a conservatory-style piano lab, equipped with Yamaha and Roland digital pianos. The program follows the curriculum of the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM), an internationally recognized standard in music education.“The use of RCM materials and guidelines ensures that our students receive an education that is in line with the highest standards in music training,” says Yousfi.More Than Just Classes: A Rich, Holistic ExperiencePiano at NDP goes beyond traditional classroom instruction. Private lessons are available during the school day, allowing students the opportunity to receive personalized guidance from expert teachers without sacrificing time after school.“The flexibility is particularly appealing to students who are involved in athletics and other extracurricular activities,” notes Alex Dzbinski, Band Instructor and Chair of the Performing Arts Department. “They can still pursue music without it conflicting with their (or their parents’) busy schedules.”NDP’s Upper Level (grades 9-12) piano students have the chance to engage in numerous on-campus performances and service opportunities throughout the year. There is also an annual recital for both Middle Level (grades 6-8) and Upper Level students, as well as unique events like guest artist visits and field trips.The Proven Benefits of Music EducationMusic education has been proven to have numerous cognitive and social benefits. According to research from the University of Southern California’s Brain and Creativity Institute, children who learn to play musical instruments tend to develop better language skills and improve their ability to process sounds. Similarly, a study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that learning music enhances memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.“The benefits of learning piano extend far beyond the keys,” Yousfi affirms. “Our students learn discipline, patience, and perseverance. For some, piano becomes a therapeutic activity that provides them with a sense of calm amid their busy lives.”A Program That Appeals to All Types of Learners The NDP piano program is carefully designed to appeal to a diverse range of students. Whether you’re a recreational music student looking for a creative outlet, or a serious pianist aiming to hone your skills, NDP offers a curriculum that accommodates both ends of the spectrum. The program’s flexibility is a big draw. While performance opportunities are available, they are not mandatory, which appeals to students who love music but eschew public performance.“Our advanced piano students play six days out of their nine-day rotation,” says Yousfi. “They get the time they need to practice and improve, without the pressure of mandatory performances. This appeals to those who want to learn and enjoy music on their own terms.”Why Choose NDP’s Piano Program?As a church music director and the owner of a private music company, Yousfi knows the private school landscape well. “NDP’s piano program is unique. No other school in the area has the kind of facilities or comprehensive approach we do,” she explains.Looking Ahead: The Future of Piano at Notre Dame PrepAs the program continues to grow, NDP remains committed to fostering a love for music in students of all backgrounds. Whether your child dreams of performing on stage or simply wants to learn a new skill, NDP’s piano program has something to offer. With a supportive environment, world-class facilities, and an exceptional curriculum, the program is poised to keep making beautiful music for years to come.Interested in learning more? Contact the Admissions Department at Notre Dame Prep or visit our website at www.notredameprep.com to explore how your child can join this vibrant musical community.