The Silvermine School of Music was established in 1939 by pianist/thereminist Juliet Shaw (1903-1994) whose artistic mission was to promote music, bringing cultural enrichment to the community.  She set out to create a musical salon filled with the beauty of music, art, and European antiques where young talent could be developed and seasoned professionals could perform.  Originally a carriage house owned by cartoonist Tad Powers, the structure was renovated, using the 14^th century Renaissance woodwork acquired  from the library of the former Rockefeller estate in Greenwich  along with doors in the entry hall designed from hand-blown Tiffany glass from the same mansion. The result was a spacious studio with a balcony which evokes an atmosphere of old-world charm combined with natural acoustics in which the listener enjoys a unique  concert going experience.  Mrs. Shaw’s work with children and adults in solo and duo-piano continued throughout her life. 

In 1958  daughter Sandra  joined her mother  at the SSOM. Under her direction, the school  expanded and flourished,  continuing  the tradition of nourishing the musical community  through combining musical education and excellence in performance.     

The founder’s other daughter, pianist Karen Shaw, pursued a concertizing and teaching career, initiated the Artist Series at the SSOM in 1983 which presents young artists and established  artists  in concerts on Sundays at Silvermine.  The Series also presents lecture recitals, master classes, and special events throughout the season. 

Juliet Shaw and her two daughters have been recognized for their contribution to the community and achievement in the arts by the governor of Connecticut.