Backed by a Master of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Grossmont College faculty appointment held since 1988, Ken Ard Piano Studio operates from 1749 Pentuckett Ave in North Park's 92104 ZIP code. Instruction covers classical, jazz, pop, and blues repertoire for students of all ages, and pianists adding rhythm-section skills can coordinate percussion study at San Diego Drumset and Percussion Lessons on El Cajon Blvd. The studio's proprietary method, Speaking Music at the Piano, teaches improvisation fundamentals that have helped four students gain admission to Berklee College of Music in Boston. Recital programs and promotional materials are supported by Park Place Mail & Ship on University Ave for printing and shipping needs. The studio's most advanced track is jazz-combo coaching that prepares students for competitive festival adjudication, vocal-ensemble conducting, and original-composition development under ASCAP registration.