The Piano Cottage was founded by career music educators, Jody-Deems McCargar and Wright McCargar when they began teaching piano in the little cottage behind their home. As demand grew, the McCargars expanded their locations and brought on a team of top-notch professional musicians so they could offer lessons in not only piano, but also: voice, guitar, bass, drums, woodwinds, brass, and composition. From humble beginnings, the music school has gained wide recognition throughout West Michigan.

One of the annual highlights is The Piano Cottage Rocks (TPCR) concert series. Students audition for this capstone event, learn about concert production and perform alongside professional musicians at Wealthy Street Theatre.

The Piano Cottage changed ownership in 2019 when the McCargars decided to step back and focus on teaching. The new owner, Josh Zimmerman, joined The Piano Cottage in 2018 as a piano and guitar instructor. He has more than two decades of experience as a performer, composer, band instructor, and private instructor.

Our mission: To offer unparalleled instruction, community and opportunities to foster students’ joy, wonder, mastery and love of music