Our Story

Originally known as Uncle Andy’s Place, Music Education Centers opened its doors in the Rochester area in 2004. For founder Christian Schenk, it began as a way to bring together several distinct skill sets and share the gift of music with those who may have been passed by in traditional school music programs. The original studio was originally housed in the extra bedroom until the rear building barn/garage was remodeled between 2004 and 2005 to accommodate the growing demand.

In the early years of expansion, MEC underwent a myriad of changes in both its business structure and the method in which services were delivered. A second location in the town of Greece was open between 2006 and 2008. As the economy started to slip, it became necessary to close that location in order to continue through the turbulent times.

In January 2020, MEC opened a second location in Watertown, NY. The Rochester location closed in July 2023 and the Watertown studio is poised to become the Community Music School of Northern New York.