What 5 Years at BTB Taught One Family About Growth
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 have you both been part of the BTB family?
Betty Ann: I’d say we’ve been here for about five years. Leslie started piano lessons when he was around seven years old, and he’ll be twelve soon.
Leslie: I remember starting in 2020.
What made you look for music lessons in the first place?
Betty Ann: Leslie has always been musically gifted. Even when he was two, he would hear a commercial and remember the song. We actually found BTB through family—my Aunt Kathy and Uncle Jimmy are best friends with Nic’s parents. Once we joined, we realized we were basically family, too.
Leslie, what first sparked your interest in the piano?
Leslie: When I was about six, I was watching the Disney movie Soul. It’s about a guy who wants to be a singer and plays the piano. That really sparked my interest. Eventually, I felt like I mastered it and wanted to try something else, which is how I found the drums.
Finding Inspiration in the Studio
You’ve worked with a few different teachers here. Do you have a favorite?
Leslie: Mr. Zack! He’s been with me for the last five years.
Betty Ann: Leslie is very routine-oriented. If Mr. Zack has to be absent, Leslie gets a little upset! But really, we love everyone—Mr. Joe, Miss Michelle, Mr. Nic—they are all wonderful and patient.
How does music make you feel when you’re playing?
Leslie: It makes me feel warm—like, warm inside. I love the inspiration, the creativity, and having my own choices.
Betty Ann, as a mom, what changes have you seen in Leslie since he started at BTB?
Betty Ann: So much confidence. He’s grown a lot mentally and inspirationally. He’s the kind of child who doesn’t even have to practice every night; he can just pick it up and do it. I love seeing him be his own person through music.
Breaking the Barrier
What would you say sets BTB apart from other activities Leslie has done?
Betty Ann: He’s done baseball and STEM classes, but you can’t really compare them. Here, it’s the patience and the love. Everyone here loves my son. It means the world to our family.
What advice would you give to a student or parent who is nervous about starting music lessons?
Leslie: Focus on the good things, trust your instincts, and always take a deep breath.
Betty Ann: Do it! If your child is interested, let them try it. Trust the teachers and trust your ability. We love Breaking the Barrier—never doubt them.
“The feeling walking into the studio… you feel warm, the love. This is a family.” — Betty Ann Jenkins
Ready to start your own musical journey? Whether you’re inspired by your favorite movie or just want to try something new, we’re here to help you break the barrier. Click here to inquire about a trial lesson!
As an institution that is a beat above the rest, Breaking the Barrier School of Music provides quality music lessons in a family atmosphere to students of all ages and skillsets. For more articles like these or information on this school, visit https://btbschoolofmusic.com/
