Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonja Naumann
Hi Sonja, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Farmhouse Music Studio began its journey in 2014 as an independent piano studio nestled near Loretto, MN. Housed in a 150-year-old farmhouse, complete with hand-hewn timbers and a fieldstone foundation, it became a haven for musical exploration. Despite its small size, the farmhouse was filled with music.The studio’s name, “Farmhouse Music Studio,” was a deliberate choice aimed at guiding students to envision the unique setting awaiting them for their first lesson.
As students attended their piano lessons, they often found themselves surrounded by the lively antics of chickens, goats, geese, cats, and dogs that roamed the farm.
In a bold move in 2020, Sonja relocated the studio to a commercial space in Long Lake, MN. Her vision was to make piano lessons a viable option for busy families. She did this by first incorporating 60 minute weekly lessons for students, so there was quality time at the piano for both rehearsal and coaching. The second phase was adding music technology, which added note and rhythmic accuracy for students. The new location proved to be a fertile ground for growth. Within just three years, Farmhouse Music Studio grew to accommodate over 125 piano students and a team of highly talented teachers.
Sonja didn’t stop there. In the fall of 2023, Farmhouse Music Studio opened a second location in Lakeville, MN where the bustling community seemed well-suited for a studio. Both the Long Lake and Lakeville studios are thriving and attracting incredibly talented piano teachers, who share a vision for providing every student-young or old- with the opportunity to learn piano.
Through its evolution, from farmhouse to commercial space, the studio remained steadfast in its commitment to providing piano lessons for all.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As a small business owner and piano teacher, I’ve navigated numerous challenges, especially during COVID. Overcoming COVID restrictions meant boldly opening small class lessons and implementing stringent 12-foot distancing measures, which left our teachers exhausted but ensured safety.
Another hurdle has been summer retention, with our student community engaged in extensive travel and activities. As a result, we introduced creative solutions like drop-in lessons and themed workshops such as “Pop, Rock, and Jazz Jams”, “Book Blast”, and “Kickstarter”. These efforts have been crucial in fostering growth and keeping our kids engaged in music year-round.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We offer innovative piano lessons designed to inspire and motivate students. We use a super fun method series that kids love called “Piano Express”. It uses technology and direct instruction delivered by a team of exceptional teachers. These teachers are both highly qualified musicians and dedicated educators. Together we create a vibrant community of learners, where students not only make music together but also form lasting friendships, making the experience rich and meaningful.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Amanda Brobst – Managing Teacher, Long Lake
Mellisa Weinert – Lead Teacher, Long Lake and Lakeville
Bethany Aichele – Lead Teacher, Long Lake
Jim Lansing – Lead Teacher, Long Lake
Hannah Baaker – Lead Teacher, Marketing Strategist; Long Lake and Lakeville
Ash Voight – Teacher, Lakeville
Jaden Christ – Teaching Assistant, Long Lake
Jorja Kenworthy – Teaching Assistant, Long Lake
Abi Peterson – Teaching Assistant, Lakeville
John Graham – Teaching Assistant, Lakeville
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.farmhousemusicstudio.com
- Instagram: @farmhouse_music_studio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087956390140
