On Sunday, October 18th, the West LA Branch held the Works In Progress, its first event of the 2026-27 academic year. Chaired by Jan Kravets with Mary Ann Cummins, the day was a huge success. Piano students of all levels representing five teaching studios performed works of Chopin, Schumann, Beethoven, Mozart as well as more contemporary composers such as Robert Muczynski and Martha Mier. Nestled in the wooded home of Mary Ann and Paul Cummins, twenty-two students bravely performed for an audience of fellow students, families and friends. A lovely reception followed, allowing the students to mingle and congratulate each other. Many who performed now look forward to our next, more formal recital on November 15th.
Category Archives: Branch Programs
2026 Branch Student Recital Registration Now Open!
Registration for the 2026 Branch Student Recital is now open. Please visit the Branch Student Recital page for more information. Teachers must be logged in to access the registration form.
2026 Works In Progress Registration Now Open!
Registration for the 2026 Works In Progress is now open. Please visit the Works In Progress page for more information. Teachers must be logged in to access the registration form.
Reintroducing Red & Gold Seal Opportunities
Are you looking for a flexible performance opportunity for your students? The Red Seal and Gold Seal Solo Recitals are officially back!
These recitals are a long-standing branch tradition that allows students to perform a varied repertoire and receive formal acknowledgment for their entire body of work. They also offer a wonderful, low-pressure environment to share music with friends and family.
Why participate?
- Complete flexibility: Plan a serious, formal recital or a fun, casual event.
- Creative freedom: Aside from a few basic requirements, you and your students can design a completely unique program.
Visit the Red & Gold Seal Solo Recitals page to learn more. Registration is now open.
2026 MSSL Report
I am pleased to report that the Music Students’ Service League (MSSL) has had a successful start of the school year! This past Sunday, August 30th, 2026, five students from MSSL West LA Branch performed beautifully at the Savant Studio Royale Assisted Living facility for over 30 residents there. Students representing piano studios of Nancy Arnold and Rita Hovanessian graced the audience with pieces from J.S. Bach, Kuhlau, Chopin and Austin. As a special treat, one student performed Happy Birthday for the residents who had birthdays in August, while cake was enjoyed by all.
Stay tuned for upcoming service opportunities and performances on: November 15, 2026; January 17, 2027 & May 16, 2027. To be part of this incredibly rewarding experience, please contact Faculty Advisor, Lisa Pietruszka Polak at or by text/phone: (310)867-0987