Grace Notes Apopka Opens New Music Studio in Victoria Plaza

Grace Notes Apopka has officially opened its new music studio at 1021 W. Orange Blossom Trail, offering a range of lessons to the community.

 

Founder and instructor Michelle Martin explained the inspiration behind the name: "In music, a grace note is a decorative note that precedes the main note of the melody. From a Christian perspective, 'grace' signifies 'unmerited favor.' I named us Grace Notes to reflect the grace and kindness I aim to extend to everyone who walks through our doors."

 

The studio features six classrooms and a team of 13 instructors teaching 20 different instruments, including unique options like the accordion, mandolin, and dulcimer. To enhance the learning experience, teachers utilize the Practice Space app, assigning homework that allows students to earn digital gems redeemable for prizes.

 

Martin shared, "On our busiest nights, we have five rooms in use for a few hours each. We have the capacity for over 300 appointments before needing to expand further. It's just the beginning, but the response has been very promising."

 

Although the name "Grace Notes Apopka" was established in August of last year, Martin has been teaching music since 1990. A graduate of the State University of New York Potsdam’s Crane School of Music with a bachelor's degree in music education, she has previously served as an elementary school strings instructor and a middle school orchestra director for Orange County Public Schools.

 

Starting as a full-time homeschool mom, Martin's studio grew rapidly. "Within one month, I went from 20 students to 40 students—literally in less than 30 days," she recalled. "A few months later, I was up to 50 and felt capped off. It was tough turning people down."

 

In January, Martin and her husband began planning for a separate studio, selecting the current location in June. She appreciates its central position in Apopka and proximity to other child-focused businesses like Sylvan Learning, Little Angels, and Kidzdance. "It's a nice little kids' corner where parents can schedule multiple activities for their children simultaneously," Martin noted.

 

Reflecting on her passion for teaching music, Martin shared, "I had a father who had cancer, and it was a difficult time. Music was a great escape. My teachers were so impactful and supportive, helping me channel my experiences into musical expression."

 

While proficient in viola, violin, and piano, Martin's favorite instrument is the violin. "With a bow on the violin, you can sustain a note for a long time, allowing for dynamic expression and sound coloring," she explained.

 

Looking ahead, Martin plans to convert the back portion of the building into a classroom for ensembles and group lessons. A grand opening event is also in the works, featuring food, an instrument petting zoo, and student performances.

 

"I believe music study can be transformational for kids in many ways—emotionally, artistically, spiritually," Martin said. "The best part is impacting lives, both young and old."

 

In related developments, Apopka is experiencing significant growth. The city has partnered with a national retail consulting firm to enhance retail recruitment efforts, aiming to position Apopka as a premier destination for retail success. Additionally, the city council has approved a $50,000 grant to Main Street Apopka, a nonprofit focused on revitalizing downtown's economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization. These initiatives reflect Apopka's commitment to fostering a vibrant community for residents and businesses alike.