Rockwall School of Music Receives National Award of Excellence!

04/15/2025

We’re still beaming with excitement and gratitude—and we couldn’t wait to share the news with our wonderful Rockwall community!

Karen and I are absolutely thrilled to announce that Rockwall School of Music has been honored with the Award of Excellence from the Music Academy Success organization! This prestigious recognition was presented during last week’s national conference, and out of hundreds of music schools across the U.S. and Canada, only 15 were chosen for this incredible distinction. To be named among them is both humbling and energizing!

What This Award Means

The Award of Excellence is more than just a title—it represents a celebration of exceptional growth, innovation, and musical achievement. It acknowledges music schools that are not only expanding in size but also evolving in the quality and creativity of their programs. From introducing new instruments and lesson formats to finding fresh ways to connect with students and families, this award highlights music schools that are raising the bar in every possible way.

To be recognized on this national stage confirms something we’ve always believed deep in our hearts: music changes lives, and when a community supports the arts, beautiful things happen.

A Community Effort

While our name may be on the plaque, this award truly belongs to all of you—our incredible students, their devoted families, and our extraordinary faculty. Every note practiced, every lesson attended, every recital performed—these are the moments that have built Rockwall School of Music into what it is today.

Our faculty members bring their passion and professionalism into every classroom, guiding each student not just toward technical skill, but toward confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of music. Their dedication makes all the difference, and this award reflects their outstanding work.

And of course, we are endlessly thankful to the parents and families who prioritize music education and choose to entrust us with nurturing their children’s talents. Your support and belief in our mission fuel everything we do.

Our Journey of Growth

In the past few years, we’ve seen tremendous growth—not just in student enrollment, but in the depth and breadth of what we offer. We’ve added new programs, expanded our faculty, upgraded our facilities, and worked tirelessly to make music education accessible and exciting for everyone who walks through our doors.

Whether it’s a child picking up an instrument for the very first time, a teen prepping for auditions, or an adult rediscovering their love for music, we’re here for every stage of the musical journey. This award validates all those steps and affirms that we are on the right path.

Looking Ahead

This award marks an exciting milestone, but it’s far from the finish line. We’re more motivated than ever to continue growing, innovating, and enriching lives through music. From new classes and workshops to exciting community events and performances, we can’t wait to show you what’s next.

As we reflect on this achievement, we’re reminded of why we do what we do: to inspire, to educate, and to create a space where music brings people together.

Thank You!

From the bottom of our hearts—thank you. Thank you for being part of our journey. Thank you for believing in the power of music. And thank you for helping us build a community where musical dreams take flight.

Here’s to the next chapter—filled with harmony, growth, and plenty of great music!

With gratitude,
Russ and Karen
Rockwall School of Music

Ask the Expert Feature

Meet Russ Porter, Owner at the Rockwall School of Music. About the expert Russ Porter holds a bachelor's degree in Music from Ouachita Baptist University and a master's degree in music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. In 2004, Russ and his wife, Karen,...

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My son loved Blake as his teacher for drum lessons! He was fun and seemed amazing with kids. He was motivational and we will miss him teaching at the school. However, we are very excited to continue lessons with Michael! He seems very great at what he does as well and equally amazing!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Britney. We're thrilled your son enjoyed lessons with Blake and that Blake was fun and motivating with kids. We’ll let Blake know he’ll be missed and are excited Michael is continuing lessons; he’s an excellent teacher and we’re glad he’s a great fit. Please reach out anytime if you need scheduling help or have questions.
We have had such an incredible experience at Rockwall School of Music!! Everyone is so wonderful from the sweet girls in the front (Darcy and Ashlyn) to the fantastic teachers (Stuart and Tara). We love this place!!
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Mr. Julian Mileski is an exceptional teacher who has inspired our children not only to grow as pianists, but also to develop as musicians. His dedication, encouragement, and expert guidance continually motivate his students to achieve excellence and reach their full potential. We are truly grateful to Mr. Julian and Rockwall School of Music for the positive impact they have had on our children’s musical journey.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Anish, for your wonderful review and for trusting Mr. Julian Mileski and Rockwall School of Music with your children’s musical development. We are thrilled to hear Julian’s dedication and guidance have inspired and motivated your children to grow as pianists and musicians. Your kind words mean a great deal to us and motivate our whole team to continue providing excellent instruction. We look forward to supporting their continued progress and musical success.
I’ve loved teaching here. The owners are very kind and make the teachers feel special and they give us opportunities to learn. The students are great, too.
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I been in these class since 2 years ( I think). And so far, I'm really glad I'm learning to play the piano. Thanks to the teacher, Michael for helping me throughout the lesson. I know that I'm not that easy, and I get nervous. But I'm glad I'm learning to play the piano.
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Response from the owner:Thank you so much for being with our classes these past two years and for the kind words. We're thrilled Michael has been able to support you through your lessons and help you grow even when you feel nervous. Your dedication really shows, and we're so glad you're enjoying learning the piano. We look forward to continuing to support your progress.
Excellent school for music lessons and teachers are all fantastic! My grandson has been going for years!
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My son has attended here since elementary school and he is now in high school. Teachers here are outstanding!
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