WHO WE ARE

 

Northern Westchester School of Music was founded in 1959 by Carmen Carrozza, a world-renowned accordionist. In 2005, the ownership of the school was transferred to Jacek Zganiacz, a classical pianist from Poland and a Juilliard graduate.
In 2025, the ownership of Northern Westchester Music School was transferred to Nara Simonyan, continuing the school’s long-standing tradition of musical excellence and dedication to the community.

The school is conveniently located in the historic French Hill School building in the heart of Yorktown Heights. Our studios are equipped with high-quality instruments and an extensive music library. We offer instruction in a variety of instruments and voice to students of all ages. Our faculty consists of highly qualified, dedicated, and experienced teachers and performers.

Our primary goal is to instill in our students a lifelong appreciation and love of music, encouraging them to look beyond routine practice. Whether preparing for NYSSMA exams, recitals, auditions, or simply deepening their musical understanding, our mission remains the same — to help students experience how music can profoundly shape their lives. We understand the transformative power of music and are passionate about sharing that truth with others.

Dedication to Teaching

About the school

Xylophone class

Drum Experts

Piano Classes

Guitar Lessons

WHY NORTHERN WESTCHESTER MUSIC SCHOOl

Our mission is to provide the highest quality and most comprehensive music education. We believe that music enhances intellectual abilities, improves physical coordination, and teaches patience, confidence, and discipline — all essential ingredients for success in any endeavor.

Music should play an important role in everyone’s life, regardless of age. Every individual possesses the capacity for musical appreciation and expression at some level of understanding and skill. We are committed to offering exceptional music instruction to all students and to fostering their musical interests in a supportive and caring environment.

WHY MUSIC

  • Music develops both sides of the brain simultaneously, fostering cognitive growth.

  • It enhances intellectual faculties, coordination, patience, confidence, and discipline — key elements of success.

  • Music uniquely improves the human condition.

  • It deepens appreciation of all arts and broadens horizons.

  • It inspires collaboration, creativity, and innovation.

  • And most importantly — it’s fun!

Our Core Values

  • Welcoming — We are dedicated to serving individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and musical interests, ensuring that everyone feels at home in our community.
  • Excellence — We are committed to delivering the highest quality music instruction through a faculty of skilled, passionate, and professionally trained music educators.
  • Appreciation — We strive to cultivate a deep and lasting love for music, fostering an environment where appreciation for the art form can flourish.
  • Nurturing — We are devoted to supporting every student’s musical journey in a caring, encouraging, and inclusive environment at Northern Westchester Schoold of Music.