Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Drew.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I began my musical journey at age 9 when my parents enrolled me in piano lessons. Music has never been something that has come easily to me, and as a child, I struggled with it and did not enjoy playing or practicing. At age 13, I got my first guitar, and the world of music instantly came alive to me. I was already learning to love music as a listener, and the realization that I could play my favorite songs was a huge breakthrough. I devoted myself to the practice of music, and logged 4 to 6 practice hours per day throughout my teen years.
From age 16 to 20, I took music classes and private music lessons at Elgin Community College and Judson University. The training I gained there has been very beneficial to me. By age 18, I had joined my first band and was playing in local bars and rock clubs. I have stayed involved in at least one, and usually two or three bands at a time. I’ve played both in Chicago as well as in the suburbs.
I first started teaching music when I was 17, and it has been a passion of mine ever since. I started with one or two students, but within a few years, I was teaching full time. Since 2010, I’ve instructed over 50 music students per week, teaching piano, guitar, bass, voice, ukulele, and drums.
Currently, I am teaching full time during the week, and playing 50+ shows per year on the weekends with my band, Friday Jackson. I am also a volunteer musician at my church, Redeemer Fellowship in St. Charles. Music in the church is also a huge passion of mine.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Music has always been hard for me. My whole life I have watched my peers excel at music faster than I would, so my response throughout the years has been to work harder. So, in that sense, it has been difficult. Teaching, however, has always come naturally to me. My dad is a teacher and his dad was a teacher, and I think that is a gift I inherited from them.
Michael Drew Music – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a self-employed music instructor and teacher, as well as a songwriter and performer. I believe diversity is key to making a living in the field of music.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I’ve always played music because I love it and I love sharing the joy of music with others. It has never been my goal to be famous or to live an extravagant lifestyle. Success for my business is sharing the joy of music with others, earning enough money to make a living, and glorifying God through my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michaeldrewmusic.com
- Email: michael@michaeldrewmusic.com
- Other: https://wearesilentones.bandcamp.com/releases
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