Hear what some folks are saying about The Smalls Institute ........

 When I re-located to Charleston, SC in 2006, I met Mrs. Sherry Smalls, one of the school administrators. She was very kind. She told me that she was a piano teacher and she taught out of her home. My daughter was a first grader at the time and I was hesitant about signing up. Through words of encouragement, Mrs. Smalls convinced me to let her try. That decision was one of the best decisions I could have made for my child. Hearing the Smalls' vision was one thing, but seeing it come to pass was comforting. Here we are five years later and my daughter is in the sixth grade. Not only does she play the piano and is still a student at Smalls Institute; she also plays the violin and is ready to try other musical instruments. I know for a fact, she has confidence because of her affiliation with the Smalls Institute. She is fearless when it comes to performing before an audience and/or speaking to a group (thanks to recitals/fundraisers). Most of all, they have helped her to strive for good grades, to believe in herself, and to practice and work hard to be excellent and achieve her goals. Thank you Smalls Institute for your dedication and encouragement (when I fell short) and also your unwaivering support with my daughter. Continue to bless and enrich the lives of the children in the community and surrounding areas.

Theynonia -

My experience with your organization has been so positive and uplifting. I can only imagine how your students feel in such a warm environment of learning. Thanks again for all you do to help the students who could not experience music or youth leadership without your excellent direction. It is no wonder why everyone wants to be a part of making your organization successful! [You] are growing our future leaders and that is such a wonderful thing since we all consider you excellent leaders in everyday life!

Sarah -

A  referral letter from a parent written  November 26, 2010
To Whom it may Concern
....... my daughter who is now 10 years old and in the 5th grade has been attending the Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership since she was in the first grade. Mrs. Smalls has done an excellent job. She is at a place in her music now where she feels more comfortable and confident. Mrs. Sherry is working closely with her as she prepares to apply and audition for the Charleston County School of the Arts. My daughter would have never had the will or the fortitude  to explore this venture if not for Mrs. Sherry's support and commitment.

Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadershipn is not only a place where music is taught, it is a fixture in our community. Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership has introduced the students to  community service as well as  allowing them to participate in fundraisaing events. Recently, the students as well as their parents participated  in an Applebees Flapjack Fundraiser .  This was done in an effort to offset the cost of awards given to students at their yearly recital. The breakfast fundraiser also allowed the students to display their talents as patrons enjoyed their meal. Overall, the event was a huge success. In addition, Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership provides students with many learning opportunities. The students were given the chance to go on a fieldtrip to Piccolo Spoleto's Charleston Jazz Initiative where they were introduced to different musical genres. This type of event gives them a sense of awareness  and allow them to explore in a deeper manner how music influences a lot of what we do in our daily lives.

As a parent, I am very grateful  for the Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership. It has introduced my daughter and many other children  to the arts and I am not sure  that she would have this opportunity otherwise. Although they have done a lot, the Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership is stll on the move. The vision is to go mobile and serve students in the inner city and rural areas who also have musical talents but not readily available transportation. It is my belief that children need to be a part of  something. Students enrolled at the Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership are a part of a family. Music is their outlet and they need this program to help them succeed.

Lashel -

To include your testimonial, contact SmallsMusicLab@comcast.net and enter "Testimonial" in the subject line.  Your material will be reviewed for suitability and content. Please allow 48 hours to have your testimonial placed online.  Thanks!