Business Details
19 Years
experience
Your Premier Music Education Partner in Carroll County
Founded in 2007 by legendary violist Peggy Ward, Opus Community Music School has evolved from a weekend strings workshop to a county institution. As a non-profit organization, we are dedicated to enriching our community by providing the highest quality, affordable music lessons to students of every age, ability, and background. Our structured, time-tested music program is built on 18 years of experience and excellence in music education. Our faculty consists of highly experienced professional musicians and pedagogues who bring decades of expertise to their teaching. Located in the heart of Carroll County at the intersection of MD-26 and MD-32, we offer convenient access to superior music education.Our students regularly achieve success in university-level programs and the arts profession, earning scholarships and awards along the way. We provide private and group lessons across multiple instruments, including cello, clarinet, flute, piano, violin, viola, and voice. Our curriculum includes workshops, masterclasses, performance opportunities, and specialized preparation for all-county, all-state, and college auditions. We maintain a commitment to inclusivity, serving students of all backgrounds without discrimination. Through our legacy of excellence and community-focused approach, we continue to honor our founder's vision of accessible, high-quality music education.
Services
Private Music Lessons
Group Music Classes
Workshops & Masterclasses
Performance Opportunities
Audition Preparation
Music Theory Instruction
Competition Preparation
Instrument Rental Assistance
Adult Music Education
Early Childhood Programs
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- Our faculty includes professional musicians with decades of teaching and performance experience
- We offer a structured, time-tested music program developed over 18 years
- Convenient location in the heart of Carroll County with easy accessibility
- Proven track record of student success in university programs and professional arts
- Non-profit mission focused exclusively on accessible, community-centered music education
Services
Private Music Lessons
Our private music lessons offer personalized instruction tailored to each student's unique needs and goals. With expert instructors specializing in specific instruments, students receive focused attention to develop proper technique and musicality. Our faculty members bring professional performance experience and pedagogical expertise to every lesson, ensuring comprehensive musical development.
Group Music Classes
Group classes provide valuable ensemble experience and peer learning opportunities across various skill levels. Students develop collaborative musicianship while learning from their peers in a supportive environment. These classes maintain our high instructional standards while offering more affordable options for music education in Carroll County.
Performance Opportunities
We offer multiple performance platforms including recitals, masterclasses, and community events to showcase student progress. These opportunities help build confidence and stage presence while celebrating musical achievements. Our performance calendar includes both required and optional events for different commitment levels.
Audition Preparation
Specialized coaching prepares students for all-county, all-state, and college auditions with proven success. Instructors focus on repertoire selection, technical requirements, and performance psychology to maximize audition outcomes. Our track record demonstrates effectiveness in securing placements and scholarships.
Early Childhood Programs
Age-appropriate curriculum introduces musical concepts to young children through engaging, play-based learning. These programs develop foundational skills and foster lifelong appreciation for music. Our experienced instructors create nurturing environments for early musical exploration and development.
People
Peggy Motter Ward
Founder
Legendary violist and educator with a 70+ year career, including performances at presidential inaugurations and with renowned musicians. Established Opus Community Music School in 2007 after retiring from the Kennedy Center.
Pamela Wiswakarma
Executive Director
Professional conductor and pianist with advanced degrees from Hochschule fuer Musik und Theater Hamburg. Assumed directorship in 2018, continuing Opus' mission of accessible music education in Carroll County.
William Kass
Cello Instructor
Active chamber musician and educator based in the Baltimore-Washington area. Performs regularly in solo and ensemble settings, bringing practical performance experience to cello instruction at Opus.
Grace Ju-Yeon Wang
Flute Instructor
Award-winning flutist with a versatile career as soloist, chamber musician, and educator. Brings international performance experience and pedagogical expertise to Opus' flute program.
Ryan Zeitler
Viola & Violin Instructor
Dedicated strings pedagogue with over a decade of teaching experience. Comes from a multi-generational musical family, combining heritage with modern instructional techniques for violin and viola students.
Questions
What makes Opus instructors unique?
Our faculty members are professional musicians with advanced degrees and extensive performance experience. Each instructor specializes in their primary instrument, ensuring expert-level instruction.
Do you offer lessons for adult students?
Yes! We have a thriving adult education program with regular lessons and our annual adult student soiree. Many of our instructors specialize in working with adult learners.
What locations do you serve?
We're located in the Sykesville/Eldersburg area of Carroll County, MD. Our central location serves students from throughout the county with convenient access.
Are financial assistance options available?
Yes, we offer financial aid for eligible students. Please contact us directly to discuss scholarship opportunities and payment assistance programs.
What instruments do you teach?
We offer instruction in cello, clarinet, flute, piano, violin, viola, voice, and early childhood music programs. Additional instruments may be available through special arrangements.
How do you handle inclement weather?
We follow Carroll County Public Schools' snow emergency plan. If CCPS cancels activities, Opus will also cancel classes for that day. Make-up options are available.
