Dreams Fulfilled Through Music

I take the time to interview and student and family to better understand the student's specific interests and challenges.  I use this time to develop that first very important meeting to develop a positive relationship with the prospective student, helping him or her to feel comfortable with the learning environment.  

• Mary Kathryn Archuleta is uniquely qualified as a teacher of piano/keyboard and accordion to individuals with special needs, having had 36 years of professional experience before she herself became the parent of an adult child with multiple disabilities. With a broad range of experience in both classroom and private instructional settings, she has the insight to provide solutions for teachers, students and families whose goals are to bring the joy of making music to anyone with special needs.  

• During her 57 year long career, she has presented workshops at the Texas Music Educators Convention, the Texas Music Teachers State Convention [2008 - 2009], the Texas Music Educators’ Conference for the SW Division of MENC, the MTNA (Music Teachers’ National Association), and the American Accordionists Association [2009-2014].  Her expertise in the integration of elements of Applied Behavior Analysis in the teaching of students with disabilities makes her a highly sought-after clinician. 

The basic cost of Private Instruction at DREAMS FULFILLED THROUGH MUSIC is $140 per month (four or five lessons) for a 30-minute class.  Students who are receiving SSI (Supplemental Social Security) Benefits pay only $100.00 per month.  In some special cases, families may apply to the DFTM Board of Directors for up to a 50% discount.

I began piano and viola lessons in early elementary school, and progressed on to both band and orchestra in middle and high school when I also began studying the accordion.  Even in my early college years, friends began asking me to teach their children and soon after that, I found that I most enjoyed teaching the students that other teachers thought "couldn't learn."   One thing led to another and this great interest, became a deep passion.

I have worked with students of all ages, (from 2 to 82); and enjoy each equally.   I've taught students who have continued in college as music majors, others who have become doctors, pharamcists, scientists, lawyers and more.  I've taught students with all the commonly known disabilities, and many with multiple and complex disabilities.   And yes, you can still learn and enjoy making music if you are deaf and or blind!  

One of my favorite events that my students participate in is the Texas Federated Music Club Festivals.   Each year, every student has the opportunity to play solos, duets and ensembles for evaluation in a non-threatening environment.  Another favorite event is the Armed Forces River Parade in San Antonio when our Accordion Orchestra performs patriotic music to salute members of the Military.

It is very important to schedule a face-to-face meeting with any teacher you are considering, as this will likely become a long-term relationship of life-long learning.  

Are you really interested in practicing to become your very best?

Most beginning students do not have an idea of what kind of committment this truly means, and it will take a great deal of positive parental encouragement.