REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2026 PRIVATE LESSONS! REGISTRATION FOR FALL CLASSES OPENING SOON!

- To inquire about Classes or Lessons, go to the Contact Us tab, and fill out the appropriate form. NOTE: The Submit button at the *TOP* of each form (Student or Adult) is specific to each form.

- Fall classes: Performance Combo (October), Jazz Theory and Jazz Instrumental Techniques classes (November).

- Private lessons can begin at any time, upon confirmation of instructor availability.

- Classes and private lessons are available year-round in all instruments.​
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- Vocal lessons are available in all styles.  

- Scholarships awarded for students taking two or more classes or a combination of private lessons and classes.

Contact Us!
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- All classes and lessons are held late afternoon and evening and meet once per week.

- Convenient location just off I-235, 8th Street
exit in West Des Moines.

Online education also available.

​We’ll answer these​ questions and more

Beginning Students
I've never taken a solo. How do I get started?
How can I improve reading jazz charts.
What if I don't know all the notes on my instrument?
What is music theory?
What do all the chord symbols mean?
How do I get comfortable on my instrument?

Advanced Students
What are all the jazz scales and modes?
How can I analyze tunes and solo in the key?
What are all the jazz chord voicings on piano, guitar and vibes?
How can I learn more licks?
What are all the patterns for jazz solos?
How do I create the great solo melodies?
How can I improve different styles and grooves?
How do I master the neck of my guitar or bass?
How do I truly master my instrument?

Creative Music Studio, founded in 1995, is a school that offers a creative environment for students expanding their knowledge and expression of the art of jazz. If you want to be a stronger, more accomplished jazz musician, Creative Music Studio has the comprehensive program you need to improve in the crucial areas all jazz musicians must master — theory, improvisation, technique, creativity, individual expression and making it all work with other players.

We combine....

Jazz Theory and Improvisation Classes  

Learn all approaches to improvisation in jazz theory classes.           

Play in your own combo and apply what you've learned with other players. 

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Jazz Improvisation Techniques Classes  

These classes go hand-in-hand with Theory and Combo classes.

Hands on technical realization of improvisation concepts and combo tunes. Learn how develop and practice improv ideas for the best results.

. . . to give you the all-around experience you need to progress quickly to higher levels of mastery as a musician.  That's why so many Creative Music Studio students have gone on to successful professional music careers.

We offer scholarships for combining classes because we believe the combination is educationally the best. By following our curriculum and combining supportive classes and lessons, you will receive the best jazz education. By combining classes, you will have more time with teachers and a more complete perspective. Classes and lessons, however, can be taken individually.

QUOTES FROM STUDENTS

"Susie is willing to work with you wherever your playing level is. When I first started, I knew nothing."

"It's jazz theory in a real, hands-on environment."

"It's the REAL DEAL."

"It's like playing a real jazz gig in a small group. You get plenty of time in on soloing."

"I like having real jazz players as teachers. All of the teachers have played a million gigs and are all amazing players. They know what it's like to be out there actually doin' it."

"You get to meet players from other schools. If I hadn't taken this class, I wouldn't have hooked up with the players in my group. Now we do gigs together."