Today we’d like to introduce you to Vivian Lark.
Hi Vivian, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In May of 2020, we all watched Minneapolis erupt after George Floyd was killed on the street.
Before moving to Rochester, my family and I lived in Minneapolis for 12 years.
I was not able to join the protest, so I decided to start Music Lessons for All. When I lived in Minneapolis,
no one in our neighborhood could afford private music lessons. I wanted to take
something I know how to do, teaching piano, and raise money for scholarships for students with a passion
to learn. So far, 39 scholarships have been awarded to youth in SE Minnesota.
In the past couple years, Music Lessons for All has collaborated with other artists in the community to sponsor more group activities; including piano camps and clay camps.
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?
Music Lessons for All is a non profit organization sponsoring students for private music instruction who normally would not
have access; providing lessons, books, and an instrument. Students are selected based on their
passion to learn music as well as financial need.
We have worked with a lot of different families in very different situations. Sometimes there are transportation barriers; families going through a divorce; students with disabilities; and immigrant families. Thankfully we have had a lot of support from others, providing us interpretation services as well as space to hold our recitals. Currently I am the only teacher for Music Lessons for All, teaching mostly piano, and some voice, teaching students weekly one at a time.
In working with these families, I had heard many times that caregivers and parents of students with autism are looking for more sensory friendly activities. We want to have an impact on more students by collaborating with other organizations and artists to offer a variety of classes that are specifically tailored for those with autism and special needs.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a professional musician teaching through my studio in Rochester. I specialize in teaching beginners of all ages, and also perform locally from time to time. I am most proud of the fact that I have been able to adjust to the needs of my students, and I am thankful that I have been able to do what I love exclusively for over 6 years. I see music as healing, and my primary job is to be a good listener.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The best quality to have as the owner of a non-profit organization is to be able to adapt and change.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.musiclessonsforall.studio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlfamn/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@vivianlark9690
