New February Store Update - Celebrating Black Brilliance & Timeless Romance

February’s Practice Space store update brings together two meaningful themes: Black History Month and Valentine’s Day. This month’s composer avatars highlight musicians whose work shaped musical history, expanded representation in classical music, and expressed deep emotion through sound. From the rhythmic innovations of Scott Joplin and Justin Holland to the romantic lyricism of Edward Elgar and Reynaldo Hahn, these composers offer rich stories and music worth exploring.

As always, students can redeem these new composer avatars in the Practice Space store using Practice Gems earned by meeting their daily practice goals. The store turns consistent practice into motivation while encouraging students to connect with the people behind the music they study. Each avatar includes short quotes and phrases designed to spark curiosity and reinforce positive practice habits.

To support deeper learning, we’ve also created a PDF resource packet filled with composer profiles, quizzes, flashcards, and activities that align with this month’s theme. You’ll also find curated YouTube links to featured pieces by each composer, making it easy for students to listen, reflect, and build historical context alongside their practice.

We hope this month’s update helps students see how music can honor history, express love, and tell powerful stories—one practice session at a time.

Scott Joplin - The King of Ragtime! I brought syncopated swing to piano music and changed the game.

Facts in app:

1. I made ragtime famous with bouncy rhythms and catchy melodies.

2. I wrote Treemonisha, one of the first operas by a Black composer.

3. My piece The Entertainer became a huge hit (and still is!).

4. I believed music should be fun and meaningful.

   Watch this performance of The Entertainer.
   Scott Joplin - The Entertainer (ragtime in concert) - YouTube

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Justin Holland - I truthfully merged guitar and activism! I blended classical music with the fight for justice.

Facts in app:

1. I was the first major Black classical guitarist in the U.S.

2. I arranged over 30 pieces for solo guitar.

3. I spoke four languages to connect with people across cultures.

4. I believed music could bring people together.

   Check out the this performance of several of Holland’s works.
   Christopher Mallett performs Justin Holland's guitar works and arrangements - YouTube

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Christopher Mallett - I play, teach, and arrange music that inspires the next generation of guitarists.

Facts in app:

1. I’ve performed around the world and love sharing music with others.

2. I arrange new music and spirituals into classical guitar pieces.

3. I co-founded Duo Noire to spotlight Black composers.

4. I help young musicians shine at The California Conservatory of Music.

   Watch Mallett’s performance of Ophelia…A Haunted Sonata.
   Ophelia...a haunted sonata - YouTube

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Edward Elgar - Romantic, bold, and full of heart…that’s my music!

Facts in app:

1. I’m known for Pomp and Circumstance (yep, the graduation song!).

2. I wrote Salut d’Amour as a love letter to my wife.

3. I taught myself music by listening and reading books.

4. I poured emotion and drama into every note.

   Watch this performance of Salut d’Amour.
   Salut d'Amour (Edward Elgar) - Esther Abrami and Iyad Sughayer - YouTube

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Reynaldo Hahn - I’m all about elegance, charm, and timeless love songs.

Facts in app:

1. I wrote À Chloris, a dreamy favorite for voice and piano.

2. I was born in Venezuela and made my musical home in France.

3. I started composing at just 8 years old.

4. My music is full of beauty and romance.

   Watch Roomful of Teeth perform À Chloris.
   Lea Desandre & Thomas Dunford perform "À Chloris" (Reynaldo Hahn) - YouTube

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Background Update

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Some other fun additions
These all cheer the student on but also talk about tempo and other musical terms!