Music Is a Family Affair: From “Sing Play Learn” to “Suzuki”

Winston (10) and Sophie Young (6) have grown up with music as a central part of family life through MacPhail.

Their parents enrolled Winston in the Sing Play Learn program when he was just six months old, beginning what would become a decade-long Saturday morning tradition for the family. Their parents, Amy Jiang and Jason Young, say the program supported both children’s cognitive and social development while helping them build an early love of music.

Programs like Sing Play Learn are made available at community partner sites throughout the Twin Cities thanks in part to the generosity of donors who believe every family should have the opportunity to experience the joy of music.

As the siblings’ interest deepened through piano lessons and other programs at MacPhail, Amy became interested in the Suzuki method after reading Nurtured by Love by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. Inspired by its philosophy, she spoke with Winston’s teacher, Cathy Smetana, about transitioning from traditional lessons. In September 2024, both children began Suzuki piano lessons.

Their parents say the Suzuki approach helps the children manage frustration, develop a growth mindset, and appreciate steady improvement. Piano challenges them in ways school often does not, such as coordinating both hands, correcting mistakes, and persisting through difficult passages — experiences that build patience and perseverance.

Winston’s proudest achievement so far was performing Pirates of the Caribbean (arranged by Jarrod Radnich) after nine months of practice, despite its difficulty. Sophie enjoys learning new songs and looks up to her brother as inspiration. With their passion for music continuing to grow, both have a bright future ahead at MacPhail.

Thanks to those who support MacPhail’s mission, families like the Youngs are able to grow alongside their children through music — building skills, confidence, and lasting connections that extend far beyond the piano bench.