Owner Tyler Tossounian decided to re-open the Bradford Academy of Music after receiving personal protective equipment for staff and implementing new protocols for students so they could continue their lessons.
The waiting room has been eliminated and sanitization stations are set up throughout the store, with washrooms limited for emergencies only.
“Our guitar suppliers sent us an email on how to properly disinfect guitars without destroying the wood,” said Tossounian. “Any time a customer comes in to try out a guitar or instrument, we have to clean and disinfect it.”
For lessons, face masks and shields are now mandatory for both the instructor and student, and lessons are staggered to ensure a limited number of people are in the building at one time.
Tyler and his father built their own custom-made plexiglass barriers that sit between the instructor and students during lessons.
“The stands are light and portable, easy to move around,” explains Tossounian. “And the students have to bring their own materials now.”
Before COVID, instructors would write down the homework for students. But now the student must bring their own writing utensils and do their own homework with instruction from the teachers.
“It’s keeping the students more on top of their own work,” reports Tossounian. “These changes are actually making them focus more and they’re doing way better.”
The Academy still offers virtual online lessons for students, as well as curbside pick-up for orders.
“We’ve been selling lots of guitars and pianos since COVID,” said Tossounian. “I think people are bored and wanting to learn how to play a new instrument.”
Tossounian’s main focus is to continue to ensure everyone is safe and proper procedures are followed by staff, students and customers.
“It’s all about patience and mutual respect,” states Tossounian. “It’s a shared mutual understanding for now.”
For lessons or other inquiries, visit bradfordacademyofmusic.com or call 905-775-6603.
