I hope you enjoy reading my messages each month; I love writing them. It’s an opportunity for you to get to know me better—how I think, feel, run a business, and play all the roles of mother, wife, sister, friend, and leader.  I’ve been known to wear my heart on my sleeve. 

This month, I thought I’d share the story of how Opus was born. Prior to opening Opus, I taught piano at another music school in the Twin Cities. I had no teaching experience, and they gave me this chance to share the love of music in this special way. There, I helped develop an Adaptive Lesson Program, Youth and Adult Group Piano classes, and a Music Therapy Program. I had many more ideas for reaching people through music, but they were turned down at that time.

One summer, one of my students had to take an extended break from lessons because her dad lost his job, forcing them to cut back on expenses. Tears were flowing from everyone: my student, her parents, and me. As a young teacher building my career, I didn’t know how to help her. Eventually, she returned to lessons…and what a joyful moment that was. She stayed with me until she graduated from high school. I don’t think I ever told her or her family that she was a part of the inspiration behind Opus. I’ll have to do that. 

From this experience, it was time for me to take action. I had so many ideas as the world of music was, and continually is evolving. Drawing from my personal beliefs, values, and passion for teaching, I built a tiny little one room school called Opus Music Academy. Our mission: To make music available and accessible to all. No Matter What. My team of teachers and staff brings our vision to life and fulfills our mission through their dedication, commitment, joy, and love of music to others. The team I have now is SOLID. They hold the same values, share their shining lights, and carry forth the magic of music through the lives of their students, and really, anyone in their presence.  And, we have our scholarships to help students like mine begin, or continue, their adventure in music.

I’m so grateful to my team, our customers, my own students…everyone who believed in our little school. Look how far we have come-look how many lives are being touched and homes being filled with the sounds of music.

As Shakespeare said, “If Music Be the Food of Love, Play On”.

Yours in Service,

Kathy Petersen
President and Founder, Opus Music Academy