Performances, recitals & studio events.
Sharing music is part of making music. Up Scale Music builds performance opportunities into the studio calendar every year — for students at every level.
Nicki in public
Upcoming public performances & events
Theatre Production
March 15, 2026 · 2:00 pm
Mamma Mia!
SLVHS Theatre
Mamma Mia! is a sunny, feel-good jukebox musical set on a Greek island, featuring the hits of ABBA. Come watch the talented HS cast, accompianeid by the live band, Feta and the Cheeseballs.
More InfoMost studios treat recitals as an annual checkbox. At Up Scale Music, performance is woven into the culture of the studio from the start. Students don't just learn to play — they learn to share what they've built. That shift in mindset, from practicing for yourself to performing for others, is one of the most important things a music education can give you. It builds confidence, focus, and a relationship with music that lasts a lifetime.
Formal recitals
Twice a year, Up Scale Music holds formal recitals where every student in the studio has the opportunity to perform a piece they've been working on. These aren't auditions or competitions — they're celebrations.
Students perform for an audience of family, friends, and fellow students. Every performer gets recognized. After the recital, the studio gathers for a community celebration — food, conversation, and the shared joy of having made something worth hearing.
Recitals are open to students of all levels. A beginner performing their first simple piece stands on the same stage as an advanced student playing a demanding classical work. That's intentional — it shows every student what's possible, and it shows every audience what music education looks like across a lifetime.
Informal peer performances
In addition to the formal recitals, the studio holds two informal peer performance sessions throughout the year. These are lower-stakes events — students play a piece they're currently working on, not a polished final product.
After each performance, fellow students offer encouragement and feedback. The goal isn't to impress — it's to build the habit of performing, to listen actively to other musicians, and to experience music as a community activity rather than a solo pursuit.
These sessions are particularly valuable for students who find formal recitals nerve-wracking. Performing in a relaxed, familiar group before the formal recital makes the bigger event feel far less daunting.
Current students & parents
Recital dates, performance schedules, and studio calendar details are shared in the student portal — a private space for enrolled students and their families.
Not enrolled yet? Contact Nicki at 831-334-1215 to get started.
What to expect if you're new to the studio
First recital coming up? Here's how it typically goes:
Students choose their piece — Nicki helps each student select a piece that's challenging but achievable. The goal is to perform something that represents real growth, not just something easy.
Preparation in lessons — In the weeks leading up to the recital, lessons shift toward performance preparation — not just playing the notes, but performing the piece with intention and expression.
The day of the recital — Students arrive, warm up, and get settled. The atmosphere is welcoming and celebratory, not competitive.
Performances — Each student performs their piece for the audience. All levels perform together. The order is typically arranged to mix levels and create an interesting program.
Celebration — After all students have performed, the studio gathers for a community celebration. It's a chance for students, families, and Nicki to enjoy the moment together.
Be ready for wonderful peer performances where students are encouraged to do their best on a piece they are working on and provide feedback to others about their efforts, recitals that highlight the students' musical ability with community celebration afterwards, and a whole lot of smiles and laughter.
— Megan T., Up Scale Music parent
Want your student performing on stage this year?
Enrollment is open. Reach out to Nicki to get started before the next event cycle.