Today we’d like to introduce you to Amie Prendes.
Hi Amie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I made my way to the Raleigh area from Omaha, Nebraska, where I taught middle school band for seven years while also owning my own piano and brass studio. Although my primary instrument is French horn, I have studied and played piano since the age of seven and my passion is teaching beginning students of all ages and believe that through music, students can find an expressive voice that is both beautiful and unique. By encouraging students to explore different genres of repertoire, practicing and performing on any instrument unleashes the soul. “Where words fail, music speaks.” Hans Christian Anderson.
When not in the studio, I can be found on the marching band field as a music technician for the High School Marching Bands, a role I have held for over 12 years in both the Raleigh- Durham and Omaha areas.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being active in the Omaha, NE arts scene, opening of my own studio was pretty smooth sailing. I did little marketing and filled my studio with students who played in my band and was connected to other parents through my kids. “Where should I send my kids to take piano?” was a common discussion between soccer and dance moms. The services I offer spread very quickly through word of mouth. I grew to a point where I could not accept anymore students and had a lengthy waiting list…not a bad problem right?
Moving to the Raleigh area and reopening my studio has proved more challenging. My kiddos are all grown and I don’t have the circle of dance and soccer moms that I did in Omaha. Additionally, I am no longer in the middle school classroom on a daily basis. I have had to “become friends” with social media and use it to leverage my business. This learning has been a test of trial and error and patience. I have also begun attending networking events, joined the Raleigh Piano Teacher’s Association and become more active in the cultural arts scene in Apex. Slowly but surely my studio is filling. I absolutely love what do and will practice patience and diligence to get the numbers to where I would like them to be.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I teach piano and brass lessons to all ages and levels. My purpose is to “teach with passion and compassion.” Not everyone learns music in the same manner and I pride myself on adapting lesson plans and approach to each and every student. Additionally, I have experience in teaching neurodivergent musicians and believe that music is for all.
I am known for my fun approach to teaching music but also professionalism. I am extremely proud of the numerous band students that have earned chairs in honor bands and music scholarships to various universities. On the flip side, there is nothing like watching a student perform in their first recital. Whether a five year old dressed in a pink fluffy dress or an aging senior with tremors from Parkinson’s Disease, sharing music with others through a recital is a very special event for any musician.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Facebook, Instagram and Nextdoor have been essential in growing my business in a new market.
My very favorite book is “The Invisible Leader” by Zach Mercurio. This easy read discusses the importance that purpose plays in any business, organization or life in general. Also important is that all employees, volunteers, and leaders align with this purpose and execute it on a daily basis. In the book Dr. Mercurio mentions meeting a custodian at NASA. Dr. Mercurio asked the man what he does for NASA and his reply was, “I put people on the moon.”
One of my best resources is the National Music Teachers Association. From conferences, monthly magazines and webinars the learning and support are endless. This organization allows me to further my skills as both musician and business owner.
I love podcasts that help me to meditate. Some of the best are A Zen Mind and The Inward Journey.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my favorite composers and musicians. John Williams is a musical genius as well as Andrew Lloyd Weber. I also love Frank Sinatra and Cole Porter. Mozart is my favorite for classical. I must admit, I am a fan of Harry Styles, Alicia Keys and for country it is Alan Jackson and Chris Stapleton all the way. I try to infuse many artistic styles and artists into student repertoire.
Pricing:
- 30 minute lesson-$30
- 45 minute lesson- $40
- 60 minute lesson- $50
- $5 off pricing for each sibling who takes lessons
- First lesson FREE!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amiesacademy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amiesacademy/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564885328424
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmiesAcademyApex
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/amie-s-academy-apex?osq=Amie%E2%80%99s+Academy
