In June 2027, Jimmy Osborne Music will celebrate 30 years of bringing music education, performance, and a love of music to generations of families throughout Center Moriches and the surrounding communities.
But the Osborne family’s musical roots in Center Moriches reach back more than 85 years, making the anniversary not simply a milestone for a local business, but another chapter in a family tradition that has touched generations.
Jimmy and Jackie Osborne opened Jimmy Osborne Music in June 1997 with a vision of continuing “a tradition in music” begun by Jimmy’s father, Chester G. Osborne, longtime music educator and music director at Center Moriches High School. His contributions to music education left a lasting mark on the community, and the high school auditorium was dedicated in his honor.
Music education and performance became an Osborne family tradition. Members of the family have devoted their lives to teaching, performing, and sharing music with others, and Jimmy and Jackie hoped to continue that legacy when they opened the doors of Jimmy Osborne Music.
“We are proud of what we have built here in our community,” said Jimmy Osborne. “It brings us joy to see the smiles on children’s and parents’ faces when they leave a lesson or perform in our recital. We are grateful to be able to pass on a gift that they will have for a lifetime.”
For Jimmy and Jackie, the music school has always been more than a business—it is part of the life they built together in the community. Jimmy grew up in Center Moriches and was happy to return to his hometown to open the business and raise his family. Jackie also devoted her career to the local community, spending 25 years as a teacher at Eastport Elementary School. Together, they built Jimmy Osborne Music while raising their son, James, who attended Center Moriches schools and was a member of the 2009 boys soccer team that won the New York State championship.
Their involvement in the community extends well beyond the music school. Jimmy and Jackie perform throughout Long Island with their band, Chain Reaction, and as the duo After Dark. Jackie serves as president of the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, while Jimmy volunteers his time as master of ceremonies for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Veterans Day Parade, as well as other community events.
“We love Center Moriches and our surrounding communities,” Jackie said. “Our goal was to bring music into our community in many different ways. To watch children and adults grow with their music, or go on to become educators and performers, brings us joy beyond measure.”
Over the past three decades, students of all ages have come through the doors of Jimmy Osborne Music to study piano, voice, guitar, drums, strings, woodwinds and brass. Some have gone on to become music educators, professional musicians and recording artists. Students are also prepared for NYSSMA, SCMEA and HMEA, college entrance auditions and other musical opportunities.
An important part of that success is the school’s team of dedicated teachers: Matt Bermudez, Lydia Sabasto, Lily Mandiuk, Kevin Twigg, Mike O’Rourke, John Leddy, Adam Judd, Jimmy Osborne and Lisa Rice, who recently retired, as well as the countless other talented music educators who have passed through the school’s doors during the past 30 years.
Their musical backgrounds and experiences may differ, but they have shared a common goal—passing on a love and appreciation of music to their students.
Just as important is the staff behind the scenes. Lyn Dalen’s 21 years of dedication to the school, its students and families have been immeasurable. Cathie Marinace and Jen Buscarnera continue to help create the friendly, welcoming atmosphere families have come to know at Jimmy Osborne Music.
The Osbornes also fondly remember Jo Fay, Jackie’s mother, who died in 2023. For many years, Fay was a beloved part of the Jimmy Osborne Music family and a welcoming face who greeted customers, students, and friends as they walked through the door.
“It is the dedication of this amazing staff that continues to give our community music and keeps Jimmy Osborne Music going,” Jackie said. “We are all family.”
Giving back has also been part of the school’s history. For 14 years, Jimmy Osborne Music played an integral role in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, helping raise money and organize events featuring local musicians and bands. The school also hosted Relay Idol and Relay’s Got Talent competitions. Two participating students later went on to appear on “The Voice” and “American Idol.”
Jimmy Osborne Music also continues to support local organizations and fundraisers, donating lessons and prizes and using music as a way to bring people together.
As Jimmy Osborne Music approaches its 30th anniversary, Jimmy and Jackie say they are especially grateful to the generations of families who have trusted them with their children’s music education and supported their family business.
“To continue to pass on the legacy and gift of music of the Osborne family is a privilege and a joy,” Jimmy said. “We thank our community for supporting us throughout these many years.”
Jimmy Osborne Music
377 Main Street, Suite 4,
Center Moriches
Offering music instruction in piano, voice, guitar, drums, strings, woodwinds and brass, as well as instrument rentals and piano tuning.
Fall New Student Special: Four lessons for $99 with registration.
Visit JimmyOsborneMusic.com or call 631-874-7441 for more information.
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