Piano Lab Strikes a New Chord with Mobile Music Classes & Expanded Scholarships
More young musicians can now hit the keys with confidence
All photos Courtesy of Piano Lab
Alexandria, VA – When Marilyn O’Leary launched Piano Lab in 2017, she had one goal: ditch the “I took piano for years but can’t play” curse and make music stick—for life. A performing musician and mom of two West Potomac grads, O’Leary mixes joy and structure like notes in a perfect chord: solid foundations + real fun = music kids actually remember (and enjoy!).
“Music is a language—every child can learn to read it, play it, and create with it,” O’Leary said. “Even in busy families, slow and steady builds musicianship that lasts.”
Hitting the road with music
Piano Lab’s mobile program is now partnering with schools and community hubs across the region, with more launching this term:
- Riverside Elementary (Title I)
- Stratford Landing Elementary
- Bucknell Elementary
- Woodley Hills Elementary
- Vernon Woods Elementary (Title I)
- Gum Springs Rec Center
- Bethlehem Baptist Church
- Woodley Hills Elementary (Title I, new session)
By bringing the instruments and instruction to students where they already are, Piano Lab removes transportation hassles and makes learning accessible for more families.
Scholarships that open doors
No child should miss out on music because of cost—that’s the heart of Piano Lab’s expanding scholarship program. Full and partial scholarships are available for families who qualify, including those receiving free or reduced-price lunch.
As a new partner of Music For Life, Piano Lab is growing financial support for its mission with tax-exempt infrastructure and long-term sustainability. “We’re removing both financial and logistical barriers so kids can become music literate for life,” said O’Leary. “If a child wants to learn, we’ll make sure there’s a way.”
Families are feeling the music
Parents are seeing real results:
“Our son looks forward to lessons, and the progress has been incredible. The joy and creativity it’s brought into our home is priceless.”
“We tried the 6-week jumpstart program at Riverside Elementary. After that, our daughter was hooked, and Ms. Marilyn helped us secure a scholarship so she could continue.”
Beyond the classroom: The Sunday Set
When she’s not teaching, you can catch Ms. Marilyn performing around Old Town with her soulful pop group, The Sunday Set. Formerly the lead singer of Chaise Lounge, she’s graced big stages including The Kennedy Center, Blues Alley, and the Barns of Wolf Trap.
