Have you ever wished you could add some music to the mix of your childhood?
Some of us endured years of less-than-inspiring traditional lessons, only to entirely give up on music-making as adults. But others of us, like Karina, simply missed that early opportunity.
“I think I had always wanted to do something in music, but I never had the chance to explore that as a kid,” Karina says. “When I hit 18, I was like, ‘why am I not doing something about it?’ I decided I should take lessons…so I started from scratch with the piano.”
232 Music Studios Co-Founder Drew Bartels taught Karina’s very first lesson, and she began to work her way through the program.
“I never had the ability to back up my creativity with knowledge, so being able to sit down at a piano and make things was my biggest goal,” Karina says. “Before I started lessons, I would learn songs by ear…but so simple, with one finger. Now I’m at the early intermediate level, and teaching a little bit as well.”
Karina’s growth goes deeper and further than fingers and keys.
“I have grown in so many ways,” Karina says. “I feel like I’ve learned more empathy and compassion. I’ve gone through the challenges of learning something new and seeing my peers learn something new. I’ve been able to connect with others in a very different way.”
Drew has enjoyed a front row seat to that transformation.
“I’ve definitely seen that empathy too, as she’s transitioned to teaching,” Drew says. “That’s been one of her strengths in helping students. She just has a very kind, understanding tone with them. She knows exactly what it’s like to feel what they’re feeling, and wants to help.”
Using music to serve and bring joy to both herself and others has been thrilling for Karina.
“The impact I get to have on students as a teacher is a really wonderful feeling,” Karina says. “I also get to bring joy to my parents, who are getting to see me making music, as an adult, for the first time. Music is so wild because it’s like the one universal thing that everyone can like.”
“Music just connects people. It gives joy, gets you through things, helps you connect with others. It’s so amazing”
Karina
Karina says she has felt the studio’s sincere support throughout her musical journey there.
“I never felt judged for my lack of knowledge,” Karina says. “I’ve always felt kindness from everyone around me here, and unexpected warmth. I have sat in classes with kids who are 12 years younger than me, and my teacher treated me the same as them. Building a musical community has been life-changing.”
Drew loves to watch the trajectory of students like Karina–from curiosity, to confidence, to coaching.
“It’s been such an honor and joy to have Karina at 232,” Drew says. “I remember that very first phone call when I told her she’d be learning in class with much younger kids. She was like, ‘Okay, let’s go for it.’ To see the way she has grown has been amazing.”
Need a little more music in your life story? No matter your age or experience, inspiration and community are waiting for you at 232!
