Soundproofing helps music classes at Da Capo in Elburn
The owners of Da Capo, a new music studio in Elburn, had a big goal in mind when they started their business, and it's one they are quickly achieving.
"We want to provide a certain quality that you would have to go to downtown Chicago to get, but you can get in the suburbs at a suburb price," said Ben Westfall, co-owner and musician.
"We're very committed to being musicians and providing the best. We really felt that opening the place would provide a certain standard set that people deserve if they're going to pay for private music lessons."
Westfall and his co-owner, Kristin Paxinos, created plenty of design elements that are ideal for a studio that offers private lessons.
The studio, which opened in November, has so far surpassed the owners' expectations for design and quality. There is a cozy waiting area for family members who accompany students, as well as soundproof rooms for students to learn and improve their skills. According to Westfall and Paxinos, a lack of soundproofing is one of the biggest issues when it comes to studios that teach multiple students at the same time.
"It's frustrating because people pay a lot of money for lessons," said Paxinos, "but the kids come in and they're distracted (by noise)."
The owners feel that they've solved the problem well, and they feel so strongly about their high quality lessons and accommodations that they offer a free, 30-minute trial session. Available lessons include guitar, flute, piano and ensemble musicianship.
"Picking a teacher is a very personal decision and we want kids to try different lessons," said Paxinos, "and to make that easier we offer a free lesson."
Both owners have plenty of musical experience, with degrees from music schools and years of experience as teachers at other music studios. The duo performs together locally, both for enjoyment and to promote their new venture.
To top off the unique experience Westfall and Paxinos hope to offer is their name, Da Capo. It comes from an Italian musical term that tells the performer to go back to the beginning, which is a message important to the structure of Westfall and Paxinos' business.
The owners' main priority is the students and the quality education they can receive at Da Capo.
"We're committed to this," said Westfall. "This is our life, this is our career. We're not looking to branch out and expand. We strive for high quality."
Along with the value of the lessons, the instructors hope to bring an appreciation of music to the students.
"Not every kid we teach will be a musician, but hopefully they'll be an audience member," said Paxinos. "Our goal for this place is for students to come here and get really great lessons and (for us to) have a really great place to teach."
Overall, the studio has seen a successful start, and they don't plan on slowing down any time soon.
"I think we're still seeing the rewards, which is the most fun part of it," said Westfall. "At this point, we're watching it grow and we're just excited for the future."
The studio is at 525 N. Main Street, Suite 26 in Elburn. To contact the studio or learn more, visit the Web site at dcmusicstudio.com or call (630) 777-2955.