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Conversations with Vivian Lark

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vivian Lark.

Vivian Lark

Hi Vivian, I’m so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was born in Fridley, Minnesota, and have been singing and playing piano since age 7. I left Minnesota at age 17 to attend DePaul University and Columbia College in Chicago for vocal performance. I participated in an opera chorus, a funk band, and a vocal jazz quartet in Chicago. After college, I moved to New York, played at the world-famous Apollo Theater, and lived on Long Island and Brooklyn for 6 years. After a long break from music in Minneapolis when my children were little, we moved to beautiful Rochester in 2017. I currently teach students of all learning abilities, piano and voice, at my studio. In 2020, Music Lessons for All, a non-profit dedicated to making private lessons accessible to more students, was founded. Since Music Lessons for All was established, 22 students have received sponsorship in the program. In the Spring of 2022, I released a video and single, “Feels Like Love.” Thanks to a Southeast Minnesota Arts Council grant, I will be releasing more original music in February 0f 2024.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Through Music Lessons for All, students have received piano, voice, and ukulele instruction. We would love to hire another piano teacher and a guitar instructor to expand. So far, Music Lessons for All only has one instructor – Me. I am seeking grant opportunities for my organization to offer competitive wages for additional staff. Starting Music Lessons for All, like starting any new business or organization, is a risk. The reception locally has been amazing and it’s becoming clear to me that using your gift to serve others is a great way to go, and I am thankful.

I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I seek out potential students by posting grant opportunities to apply for sponsorship at local county offices and businesses and on social media. There must be a financial need, and one or more family members must receive social services.

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is allowing students to explore music. Schools only have music classes once or twice a week. In my conversations with parents, making an initial investment in a new activity can sometimes become a barrier. Music helps relieve anxiety and stress and allows students to be more social. I love seeing the smiles on students’ faces when they feel proud!

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Image Credits
Kate Windebank Klaus Tyler Aug

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