Brian Roth's love for music took him from his hometown of Muskegon to Los Angeles and back to Michigan again.
After 20 years of composing and producing music for popular television, documentaries and commercials, Roth resettled in his home state to be closer to family. And while he continues to write and produce music scores from a home studio, Roth devotes his evenings to his newly opened
Roth Academy of Music in Grand Ledge.
"There were a lot of things I didn't learn to prepare me for life as a musician and composer," says Roth. "That's my teaching style—to help others learn those things, and it's what I look for in my teachers."
Although an accomplished professional with credits that include scores for Grey's Anatomy, American Idol, Agents of Shield and Ken Burns documentaries, Roth realizes a lot of people simply take up music for fun.
"I want people to know I have the background niche if that's what you're looking for," says Roth. "I just like introducing music to people and helping them along."
Roth opened the 2,200-square foot school at 625 E. Saginaw Highway in Grand Ledge last November. The academy has four lesson rooms, a large classroom, and an enormous waiting area with a stone fireplace, wood floors, and a peaceful color scheme.
With the expertise of six part-time teachers, Roth teaches more than 20 students from kids to adults on guitar, bass, piano, drums, violin, viola, cello and horn. Students can also take voice lessons, and he says he'll work hard to find an instructor for any instrument anyone requests.
"I found a dulcimer instructor because someone asked," he says. "And a harmonica teacher, too. If a run of people ask for saxophone, I'll add that, too."
As the family-owned business takes hold, Roth hopes to add a bit of retail and instrument rental, offer classes in music theory, and increase his involvement with the community. He also sees faculty or student concerts on the horizon.
"A lot of people helped me be successful in my career, now it's time for me to help others," Roth says. "I want to share the knowledge and things I learned along the way, and to make musical opportunities easier."
Source: Brian Roth, Owner, Roth Academy of Music
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
Got a story idea for Capital Gains? Email Ann Kammerer here.
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