Versatile Music Making Space - Lydian Music Studios

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in music education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nicholas Meyer, Co-Owner of Lydian Music Studios, located in Portland, OR, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Opened in 2021 and co-owned by me and my long-term friend Ian Lawson, Lydian Music Studios throws out the traditional classroom vibe in favor of a one-of-a-kind space for learning and making music. We offer high-quality music instruction to musicians of all experience levels, ages 10 and up, focusing on voice lessons, as well as piano and guitar.

With three versatile rehearsal spaces and first-rate music instruction, Lydian Music Studios is a space to learn, rehearse, and perform. We encourage musicians of all experience levels ages 10+ to join our community. Other services include performance opportunities, classes/workshops, events, rehearsal/practice spaces, and more.

Tell us about yourself

I'm a multi-faceted musician who maintains an active singing and teaching career in Portland, OR. We opened Lydian Music Studios to fill a demand for more affordable music-making spaces in Portland and to create a space for teachers and students to come together. What motivates me each day is the feedback I get from our students and other instructors and the joy we bring to people's lives.

Our instructors gain important teaching experience that enhances their own musicianship as well. Lydian Music Studios is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for students, instructors, performers, and attendees alike. Creating music can be a liberating and expressive experience, but it also requires a level of vulnerability. We continually strive to make a space where everyone feels comfortable so that music is accessible to all.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Our biggest accomplishment so far has been creating a team of some of the best teachers/musicians in the Portland area.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I'd have to say unforeseen obstacles. Right after we opened, the Omicron surge hit, and things slowed down. Thankfully we survived it. I think it's how you manage and react to unforeseen obstacles that can make or break the business.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

1. I would say lots of planning/research/prep work - you really can't do too much of this.
2. Communication with all co-workers and business partners is paramount.
3. Have a lot of patience and determination to see things through. It can be tempting to give up when things aren't going well, but if you push through, the grass is greener on the other side.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.lydianmusicstudios.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LydianMusicStudios
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lydianmusicstudios/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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