Music has a way of bringing people together in unexpected places. During a recent visit to Cape May, Breaking the Barrier School of Music owner Nic D’Orsaneo had the opportunity to sit down with traveling musician Caleb Stine at the historic Chalfonte Hotel. With more than 30 years of experience performing music, Caleb has built…
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When the final school bell rings for summer, routines vanish. Between pool days, family vacations, and trips to the shore, instruments often end up locked away in their cases. For young musicians in school bands or orchestras, this three-month break can lead to the dreaded “summer slide”—a loss of technical skills, lip endurance, and reading…
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It happens to almost every music parent. One day, your child is excited to pick up their instrument. The next, getting them to practice feels like a battle zone, culminating in the dreaded words: “I want to quit.” Before you sell the instrument or cancel lessons, take a deep breath. Resistance can be a common…
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Music isn’t just art—it’s one of the best medicines for your brain. While we might be a bit biased, the science is undeniable. Researchers have spent decades mapping how musical training reshapes the human mind, uncovering some truly remarkable benefits. Here is a look at what they discovered. Key Findings Better Executive Functioning Musicians often…
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Playing an instrument in a school setting is how many children are introduced to music. This makes sense because most schools require music class at the elementary level. In fact, 92% to 97% of public elementary schools offer music instruction (source). But what does that have to do with music lessons? Once a student discovers their…
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We are grateful to be around during the 21st century where technology has given us a plethora of ways to maximize convenience and growth as musicians. In 2026, the digital toolkit for musicians has evolved into a sophisticated blend of timing aids, interactive learning platforms, and creative studios. For practicing musicians of all ages, the…
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Going to music lessons is a wonderful thing. You can talk to your teacher, get specific help, ask questions, and more! But what about in between lessons when your teacher isn’t there. This post offers some tricks for how to keep your motivation between lessons as high as it is during lessons. The “Five-Minute” Rule…
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At Breaking the Barrier Music, we don’t just teach notes and rhythms; we build a community. Recently, we sat down with Betty Ann Jenkins and her son Leslie to talk about their five-year journey with us, transitioning from piano to drums, and why BTB feels like home. The First Note To start off, how long…
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To continue with our Music Lessons that Last a Lifetime series, our Social Media and Marketing Manager, Jennie Hirsch, sat down with her good friend Dani to document their experience in music. Music has been a part of Dani’s life for around 15 years in several different and interesting ways. Keep reading to learn how…
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Our owners, Nic and Cortney D’Orsaneo, were recently guests on The What’s Happening Delco Podcast. Keep reading to learn a little more about what they had to say throughout of the episode. The What’s Happening Delco Podcast is known for spotlighting and promoting individuals and businesses in Delaware County. Rich Shane sat down with Nic and…
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