Business Details
38 Years
experience
Expert Music Lessons in North Kingstown, RI
More Than Music has been nurturing musical talent in the Rhode Island community since 1988. Founded by Nancy Shanahan as a private piano instruction studio, we've grown into a comprehensive music education center serving students from preschool age through adulthood. Our current owners, Elizabeth and Andy Maddock, continue this legacy with a team of 15+ professional instructors specializing in over 20 instruments and vocal training. Located at 170 Tower Hill Road in North Kingstown, we serve families from North Kingstown, Exeter, East Greenwich, Narragansett, South Kingstown, Warwick, and Cranston. Our educators combine formal music education with real-world performance experience, having taught in public/private schools, performed with professional ensembles, and developed innovative teaching methodologies.We offer structured 16-week semesters with flexible scheduling options, including group classes and private lessons tailored to individual learning styles. Our commitment to music education extends beyond technical skill development to fostering confidence, discipline, and lifelong appreciation for musical expression. With both traditional and contemporary teaching approaches, we accommodate students from beginner to advanced levels across all age groups.
Services
Piano Lessons
Guitar Lessons
Voice Training
String Instrument Instruction
Woodwind Lessons
Brass Instruction
Percussion Classes
Music Theory
Group Music Classes
Performance Coaching
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of proven music education expertise in the Rhode Island community
- Our 15+ instructors hold advanced degrees and perform professionally in diverse genres
- Flexible payment plans accommodate 16-week semester commitments with installment options
- We provide both traditional and contemporary teaching approaches for all learning styles
- Our educators have extensive experience teaching in public/private school environments
Services
Private Music Lessons
Personalized music instruction tailored to individual learning styles and goals. Our certified instructors provide focused attention to develop technical proficiency and musical interpretation skills across all genres and instruments.
Group Music Classes
Interactive group sessions fostering collaborative learning and peer motivation. Designed for children aged 5-8, these classes develop foundational music skills through vocal exercises, rhythm activities, and ensemble playing in a supportive environment.
Voice Training
Comprehensive vocal instruction covering classical and contemporary styles. Students develop proper technique, breath control, and performance skills while exploring diverse musical genres from opera to modern pop.
Instrument Instruction
Specialized training on over 20 instruments including piano, guitar, strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Our curriculum balances technical development with creative expression for students of all ages and skill levels.
Performance Preparation
Guidance for students preparing for our annual spring recital and other performance opportunities. Instructors focus on stage presence, repertoire mastery, and confidence-building techniques to ensure successful public performances.
People
Elizabeth Maddock
Owner
Bachelor's in Music Education from URI and Master's in Special Education from Chaminade University. 22 years teaching experience in Hawaii's public/private schools with expertise in special education music integration.
Andy Maddock
Owner
Classical guitar performance graduate with advanced degrees. Developed music education software and performed with Hawaii Opera Theatre. Combines technical expertise with innovative teaching methodologies for guitar and voice instruction.
Dennis Hughes
Piano Instructor
First teacher hired at More Than Music in 1988. Berklee College of Music graduate with extensive jazz composition experience. Leads popular local band Brass Force while teaching all piano styles to community members.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for music lessons?
We teach students from preschool age through adulthood, with specialized programs for children as young as 5 years old.
Can I start lessons mid-semester?
Yes, lessons can be started at any time during the semester with prorated tuition based on remaining weeks.
What payment options are available?
Choose between paying full semester tuition upfront or four equal installments. Accepts checks, cash, and PayPal (with transaction fees).
Do you offer group classes?
Yes, we provide singing clubs and ensemble classes for children aged 5-8 with limited enrollment to ensure quality instruction.
What happens if a lesson is missed?
Students receive one makeup lesson per semester. Teacher-absent lessons and storm cancellations receive credits or refunds if not rescheduled.
How are instructors selected?
Our 15+ instructors hold advanced degrees, perform professionally, and have extensive teaching experience in both public and private educational settings.
