Thursday, October 1, 2026
For 26 years, Woodmere Music Studios has helped shape young musicians across the Five Towns, providing lessons that extend far beyond learning notes and scales. This month, the studio will celebrate another year of achievement with its annual end-of-year recital, showcasing students ranging from beginners to advanced performers.
The studio’s 26th annual recital series will be held on June 29, at 7:15 p.m. at the Lynbrook Public Library. Students will perform on a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, saxophone and voice.
For founder and director Patricia Lee, the recitals represent the culmination of months of hard work while also fulfilling a lifelong mission.
“Woodmere Music Studios, now in its 26th year, is a music school that has helped thousands of students in the community learn music and important life lessons,” Lee said. “It was a personal dream of mine to help the community and the next generation achieve goals by learning how to set goals through music, recitals and giving back to the community through performances.”
Over the years, Lee has watched students grow from nervous beginners into confident adults pursuing a wide range of careers. Former students have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, accountants, teachers, engineers, entrepreneurs, musical therapists and professional musicians.
A key component of the studio’s philosophy is encouraging students to perform regularly. Woodmere Music Studios hosts workshops and recitals three times each year to help students develop confidence and presentation skills that can benefit them throughout their lives.
“We don’t force anyone to do these, but we really encourage students to participate,” Lee added. “They all understand this helps in any public appearances. Students have told me over the years, ‘you believe in me more than I believe in myself,’ and that drives me to bring these students to the next level every year.”
Among this year’s performers is Hewlett High School sophomore Derin Artan, 15, who has studied at the studio since he was 4 years old. Artan will perform the Brahms Cello Sonata.
“My favorite part about performing is the experience that I gain from each recital,” Derin said. “I love playing and sharing my music with others.”
He credits the studio with helping him develop both as a musician and as a performer.
“Taking lessons at Woodmere Music Studios has been an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn any instrument,” he said.
Another featured performer is Lee’s daughter, Claudia, 17, who recently graduated from Hewlett High School and will attend the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance this fall, majoring in choral music education.
A student at Woodmere Music Studios for 12 years, Claudia will perform “Love Let the Wind Cry, How I Adore Thee” by composer Undine Smith Moore, a piece she also used during her college auditions.
“My favorite part about performing is getting to show everyone how much hard work I’ve put in,” she said. “I also love being able to share a little bit of my personality through the songs I play.”
Claudia said the studio’s supportive teachers played a significant role in her musical development.
“The teachers are patient, encouraging and truly care about each student’s progress, which has helped me grow so much as a musician,” Claudia said. “Without the help of Woodmere Music Studios, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
As the studio marks more than a quarter-century of music education, Lee remains grateful for the support of generations of students and families.
“Thanks to the students, families and the community for 26 years,” Lee said. “I am hopeful and looking forward to the next 26 years.”
