Hailey teaching piano to student Jennifer 

By Lisa Parent

Medicine Hat Music Lessons launches with a tune of accessibility and community

Sep 22, 2023 | 2:15 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – A newly opened music lesson studio in Medicine Hat is celebrating their grand opening on Saturday. The focus of this event is ensuring all children can have access to music lessons, as a way to improve their mental health and well-being.

Hailey Alcorn started teaching music lessons out of her home and recently expanded into a studio in April. While this move has brought in more clients, she says opening this studio is more than just a business venture for her and her husband Brian.

“When I was little I always wanted to open something like this and make music accessible for those that couldn’t access it before,” explains Hailey.

“Something that we really stand behind and really embrace is ‘Medicine Hat Music Lessons, where music is for everyone’,” says Brian Alcorn.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

7h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

On Saturdays grand opening, Alcorn is hosting a bottle drive and accepting donations for a music sponsorship program at the studio. No matter your age or situation, Medicine Hat Music Lessons will provide up to 75% in funding for those struggling to afford lessons.

“We’ve got a variety of students from all different backgrounds that take lessons,” says Hailey. “It’s their coping mechanism, it’s a tool that they can use as an outlet when they don’t want to actually speak about what they’re feeling.”

Since Alcorn was a kid, she used music as an outlet to relieve stress and it seems her students are reaping the same benefits.

“I love music because it’s very calming and it’s my happy place,” says Miranda, who plays the guitar.

“People all around the world should play because it’s just really calming for you if you have really bad nerves,” explains Cecelia.

When asked why she got into lessons, piano student Jennifer says, “my job is pretty tough, I have some tough days. I wanted something that was just kind of light, carefree, easy, creative.”

Others students are just happy to play music at a studio they love.

“I really like playing with Hailey,” explains Genevieve.

“I definitely love the people here, and I do love the instrument itself. It’s definitely a way to express yourself in ways that you can’t,” says Abbie.

DJ and guitar student Donald even said he might follow in Alcorn’s footsteps one day.

“Becoming a teacher here, that would be really fun,” he says.

Since moving into her studio in April, Alcorn has seen her business expand to new heights, and she hopes to continue providing affordable music lessons in Medicine Hat.

“Pretty much the whole drive behind doing this event and just running this school is to make music as accessible as we can,” Hailey says. “Especially with music being something that’s not quite as prioritized as it used to be in a lot of schools, it’s even more of a priority for us.”

The grand opening is from 4:30pm to 9:00pm on Saturday with food trucks, lesson registrations and music from students and teachers.

More information on the event can be found here.