Music Royale

Friendly Neighborhood Music Store

megan

🎁 Best Gifts for Aspiring Musicians of Any Age

Let’s be real: musicians are not easy to shop for.

They’re passionate, they’re particular, and let’s face it, half the time, they’ve already bought themselves what they want! 😅

But whether you’re buying for a beginner just starting lessons or a seasoned student gearing up for a recital, there are a few gifts that are always a hit—and we’ve rounded them up right here at Music Royale.

🎼 1. Sheet Music That Inspires

Sheet music is always a great option, if you get the right level. That’s where your student’s teacher comes in. Reach out and ask what books they’ll be working on next, or whether they’d enjoy something just for fun.

From pop hits to movie soundtracks to classic rock collections, there’s sheet music for every personality. Just make sure you’re not buying a Level 5 book for a Level 2 player. 😬

👉 Check out our sheet music collection in-store and ask us for recommendations based on your student’s age and skill level!

🎸 2. New Strings = Fresh Sound

Here’s a secret every musician knows: you can always use an extra set of strings.

Whether they play guitar, violin, or bass, strings wear out over time and need replacing. A fresh set not only improves sound quality, but it also keeps the instrument in tip-top shape.

Don’t know which brand or size to get? No worries. Bring in the instrument (or give us a call), and we’ll help you find the perfect match.

🎁 Visit us online or in Powell to stock up on your student’s next set of strings!

🧼 3. Cleaning Kits & Maintenance Tools

Let’s talk about the elephant in the practice room: finger cheese. 🧀

(Oil + dirt + hours of playing = not cute.)

A great gift idea? A complete instrument cleaning kit.

It’s practical, affordable, and a subtle reminder to take care of that beautiful instrument you spent good money on.

Especially for brass and woodwind players, regular cleaning isn’t optional—it’s essential. Instruments you put your mouth on need extra TLC.

🛠️ We carry cleaning supplies for every instrument—from strings to saxophones. See what’s in stock now or ask us what your student’s setup needs most.

🌟 Bonus Ideas to Rock Their Practice Time

Still not sure what to get? Here are a few other gift ideas that always hit the right note:

  • A clip-on tuner

  • A sturdy music stand

  • A metronome (yes, they still make them—and they’re cooler than ever)

  • A Music Royale Gift Card for those very picky players 😉

  • Fun accessories like a colorful instrument strap, a music-themed notebook, or a lesson book upgrade

🎶 Want help picking the perfect gift? Learn more about our team and come chat with us in-store—we love playing musical Santa.

Give the Gift of Music This Year

Whether you’re shopping for a student, a teacher, or the musician who already “has everything,” there’s always something meaningful at Music Royale.

🎄 Visit Our Homepage

🎁 Shop Online

📚 Read More Blogs

🎥 Watch Our Videos

👋 Meet Our Team

Music Royale – Your Friendly Neighborhood Music Store

🎻 Student Spotlight: Ceena Baker

At Music Royale, we believe it’s never too late to chase the music that moves you. And no one embodies that rock ‘n’ roll spirit better than Ceena Baker, one of our incredible violin students who proves that passion for music knows no age limit. Watch her full interview here.

🎶 From Piano to Strings — A Lifelong Dream

Ceena’s journey started with a lifelong love for music. She grew up in a home filled with Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Perry Como—music “lilting through the house 24/7,” as she describes it. Though she started on piano as a child, it was the haunting sound of strings that truly stole her heart.

“I remember hearing Gordon Lightfoot’s ‘If You Could Read My Mind’ in high school,” Ceena recalls. “It wasn’t the lyrics or melody that got me—it was the backup strings. The violins, cellos, and basses just pulled at my heart and took me somewhere else.”

That moment planted a musical seed that would eventually grow into her decision to take violin lessons at Music Royale—decades later.

🎻 Finding Her Voice Through the Violin

For Ceena, the violin stands apart from other instruments because of its connection to the human voice:

“I think it emulates the soprano voice better than the others. There’s just something soulful and expressive about it.”

But learning as an adult came with its challenges. Between a shoulder injury, a busy schedule, and the physical technique that violin demands, Ceena admits it hasn’t been easy.

“I thought I could just pick it up and start playing—but it takes a lot of technical movement and patience. Still, with encouragement and support from my teacher, I’ve kept pushing through.”

Her advice for other adult beginners? Keep it simple and celebrate small wins.

“Don’t look too far into the future. Get excited about each little milestone, and just enjoy the journey.”

💪 Family, Music, and Never Giving Up

Music runs deep in Ceena’s family. Her son started guitar lessons at Music Royale years ago and is now a jazz bass performer and instructor—right here at the same studio where Ceena now takes lessons.

“That’s one of the reasons I chose Music Royale. My son learned here, and now he teaches here. The instructors are so kind, patient, and accommodating—it just feels like home.”

🎉 Jamming with the Music Royale Family

Ceena loves the community vibe at Music Royale, from the July Birthday Bash (complete with food trucks, live music, and staff performances) to student recitals and Rock School shows.

“It’s great seeing kids learn to play together—understanding timing, dynamics, and how one instrument complements another. It reminds me how powerful music can be when shared.”

And though she still admits to feeling a few nerves before a performance, she embraces every opportunity to play.

“My first recital piece was only 30 seconds long, but I was proud. I look forward to learning more and maybe tackling a Bennett song next!”

🎸 “It’s Never Too Late to Start Something New”

Ceena’s story is proof that music is for everyone—at any stage of life.

“It’s never too late. You can teach old dogs new tricks! If that’s where your heart wants to go, go with it. The only thing you’ll regret is not trying.”

We couldn’t agree more.

🎵 Ready to Start Your Own Musical Journey?

Whether you’re 8 or 80, Music Royale has a place for you. Join a community that celebrates progress, passion, and the pure joy of playing.

👉 Explore our teacher bios

👉 Read more student spotlights

👉 Sign up for music lessons

Visit the Music Royale homepage to learn more about our programs in guitar, piano, violin, voice, and more.

Because here at Music Royale—we don’t just teach music. We help you live it. 🎶🔥

#MusicRoyale #StudentSpotlight #ViolinLessons #ColumbusMusicLessons #LearnViolin #NeverTooLate #RockAndRollSpirit #MusicEducation #PowellOhio #StringsForLife

🎵 Teacher Feature: Meet Brent Badger 🥁

At Music Royale — your Friendly Neighborhood Music Store in Powell, Ohio — we’re proud to have an incredible lineup of professional musicians shaping the next generation of performers. This month, we’re featuring one of our passionate instructors: Brent Badger, our resident drum teacher and lifelong groove-maker.

👉 Watch Brent’s full interview here

🥁 From Corporate Life to Cymbals and Creativity

Brent didn’t start out as a music educator. In fact, his first career was in the corporate world — but the beat never stopped. After over 40 years behind the drums, Brent found a way to turn his lifelong passion for rhythm into a second career teaching at Music Royale.

“I started piano when I was six and drums in the fifth grade. I played in marching band, jazz ensemble, and college groups. Music just stuck with me. Now I finally get to do something more with it — and I’m really excited about that.”

Brent brings that excitement into every lesson. His students learn that music isn’t just about hitting the right notes — it’s about building confidence, finding your groove, and unlocking creativity.

🎶 Teaching Philosophy: One Stone at a Time

Brent describes learning music as crossing a stream:

“You can see the other side, but you have to take one stone at a time. You might get your feet wet, but that’s how you move forward.”

His approach to teaching reflects his patient, problem-solving mindset — one honed both through decades of drumming and years of corporate leadership. For Brent, lessons have to be fun, but also focused.

He reminds students that even simple rhythms are worth celebrating:

“Enjoy the simple and don’t overthink it. Some of my favorite professional drummers are still students. Learning never stops.”

🧠 What Makes Brent Different

Brent isn’t your typical drum teacher — he brings a unique combination of professional performance experience, academic insight, and real-world perspective.

He’s studied with legendary drummer Steve Smith (of Journey fame), played in countless bands and trios around town, and continues to perform regularly with local acts like Step Back 3.

“That practical gig experience helps me give my students real advice. I can talk about what actually happens on stage — not just in the practice room.”

And when students hit walls, Brent knows exactly how to help:

“We break things down to the simplest parts. Maybe it’s just the right foot. Maybe it’s that one fill. Don’t stress — figure out what’s frustrating you, and tackle it one piece at a time.”

🪘 The Groove That Keeps Him Going

If Brent were stranded on a desert island with a drum kit, he says he’d play ‘Rosanna’ by Toto on repeat.

“It’s just got that perfect shuffle — a little hard rock, a little swing, and a lot of groove.”

That same groove shows up in his lessons, where Brent teaches students to feel the music, not just count it. He encourages creativity, individuality, and fun in every session.

🎓 Why You’ll Love Taking Lessons With Brent

  • 🥁 40+ years of drumming experience
  • 🎵 Experienced performer in multiple genres — from jazz to pop to rock
  • 👨‍🏫 Professional background in corporate training and music education
  • ❤️ Focus on fun, creativity, and lifelong learning
  • 🔊 Real gig experience — from local patios to full-stage performances

🧭 Join Brent’s Drum Studio at Music Royale

Whether you’re picking up drumsticks for the first time or looking to level up your groove, Brent will meet you where you are — and help you cross to the next “stone” on your musical journey.

Ready to book your first lesson?
👉 Visit our Lesson Page to get started.
📖 Read more about Brent on his Teacher Bio.
💬 Have questions? Contact Us today.
🎸 Explore all our programs on the Music Royale Home Page or see more stories on our Blog Page.

Hashtags:
#MusicRoyale #PowellOhio #FriendlyNeighborhoodMusicStore #DrumLessons #MusicEducation #RockAndRoll

🎻 Music Royale Instructor Publishes New Holiday Book for Beginner Violinists

Aster Kanke Kats Christmas

At Music Royale, we’re always excited to celebrate the creativity of our incredible instructors — and this season, one of our own has composed something truly special!

Our violin instructor, Aster, has written and released a brand-new holiday-themed book for beginner violinists, designed to make learning fun, festive, and accessible for new players.

A Holiday Book for True Beginners

Written especially for beginners, this book features:
🎵 Easy-to-read notes
🎵 Full songs perfect for short practice sessions
🎵 Fun, whimsical characters that guide students through their musical journey

Fingerings are simple and approachable — ideal for students who’ve been playing for as little as two months. Whether your student just joined your studio or is preparing for a first recital, this book is a perfect fit for the season.

Aster shared,

“I couldn’t find any holiday books for my beginner violin students, so I created my own! The goal is to expand with even more books, but starting with Christmas is fun because there’s something special about this time of year.”

Meet the Kanky Cats

In this book, students learn to read notes on the staff through the story of the Kanky Cats, featuring the playful line:

Learn to read the notes on the staff because Eddie’s Green Boots Don’t Fit!

It’s a lighthearted, engaging way to make note reading click for young players — while keeping the spirit of the holidays alive.

Perfect Timing for Holiday Recitals

This book isn’t just a learning tool — it’s also a performance-ready companion. With our Music Royale Recitals coming up on December 8, 9, and 10, it’s the perfect time for students to add a touch of holiday cheer to their pieces.

And the best part?
🎁 Music Royale has a special stock reserved for our students and community members. Stop by our studio to pick up your copy before recital season kicks off!

Bring the Joy of Music Home

We’re proud to support instructors like Aster who bring passion, creativity, and innovation to the Music Royale family. Books like this remind us why we love what we do — teaching, inspiring, and helping every student grow through the joy of music.

Stop in soon to grab your copy, or contact us for more info about violin lessons, music books, and private instruction at Music Royale in Powell, Ohio.

#MusicRoyale #PowellOhio #ViolinLessons #MusicLessons #BeginnerViolin #MusicEducation #HolidayMusic #KankyCats #MusicRoyaleFamily #LearnViolin #ViolinTeachers #MusicStudents #HolidayRecital

🎶 Top Accessories Every Beginner Musician Needs

So you’ve got your instrument… now what? Whether you’re picking up a guitar, violin, trumpet, or your voice, starting your musical journey is more than just playing notes,it’s about building habits, protecting your gear, and leveling up step by step.

Here at Music Royale, we’ve helped thousands of students and families get set up for success, without the stress. We put together a checklist of must-have accessories for beginner musicians of all kinds (plus a few extras for when you’re ready to take things to the next level).

🎸 GUITAR

Whether you’re rocking electric, acoustic, or acoustic-electric, here’s what you really need to get going:

✅ Getting Started:

  • Amp & ¼” Cable (for electric/acoustic-electric)

  • Picks

  • Strap

  • Tuner

  • Method Book or Chord Chart

  • Gig Bag

🎁 Pro Tip: If you get your guitar from the Music Royale Wall, we include a FREE setup within your first year, think of it like a check-up for your guitar! It’s the perfect way to build a healthy maintenance habit early on.

🎯 When You’re Invested:

  • Backup Picks

  • New Strings

  • Capo

  • Hardshell Case

🔥 When You’re Dedicated:

  • Extra Set of Strings

  • Wall Hook

  • Pedals

  • String Winder

  • Sheet Music

🎻 ORCHESTRA (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass)

Renting an instrument? Good news, ours grow with your student. Sweetwater Rentals include a bow, rosin, case, and quality strings to get started.

✅ Getting Started:

  • Sponge or Shoulder Pad

  • Essential Elements, String Basics, or Quick Notes for Reading

🎯 When You’re Invested:

🔥 When You’re Dedicated:

  • Extra Set of Strings

  • Extra Bow

  • Drop-Resistant Rosin

  • Advanced Method Books (Suzuki 2–6, Etudes, Introducing the Positions)

🎷 BAND (Woodwinds & Brass)

Sweetwater Band Instruments come ready with reeds, valve oil, slide grease, and neck straps, but here’s what else you’ll want:

✅ Getting Started:

  • Woodwind: Extra Reeds, Cleaning Swab

  • Brass: Mouthpiece Brush, Cleaning Brush

  • Method Book (ask your teacher what they use!)

🎯 When You’re Invested:

  • Woodwind: Vandoren Reeds, Moisture Absorbers

  • Brass: Polishing Cloth, Finger Strengthener

🔥 When You’re Dedicated:

  • Woodwind: Sticky Pad Paper, Reed Case

  • Brass: Mouthpiece Upgrade, Valve Grip

🎹 PIANO

✅ Getting Started:

  • Lesson Book

  • Recital Book

🎯 When You’re Invested:

  • Etude Book or Technique Book

  • Keyboard for home practice

🔥 When You’re Dedicated:

  • Grand Piano (goals!)

  • Metronome

🎤 VOCAL

✅ Getting Started:

  • Lesson Book

  • Water Bottle (hydration = vocal health!)

🎯 When You’re Invested:

  • Throat Spray

  • Full-Length Mirror

🔥 When You’re Dedicated:

  • Diaphragmatic Whistle

  • Microphone + Amp

Ready to gear up?

🎸🎻🎷 No matter what you play, we’ve got everything you need, plus expert staff to walk you through it. Click below to start shopping, schedule a lesson, or get inspired by more student stories.

👉 Homepage

👉 About Us

👉 Shop Online

👉 Read More Blogs

👉 Watch Our Videos

#MusicRoyale #StudentMusicians #MusicTips #PowellOhio #GuitarAccessories #OrchestraLife #BandGear #BeginnerMusicians #ShopLocalMusic #MusicLessonsThatRock #CentralOhioMusicScene

Your
Neighborhood
Music Store

Music Royale
Find a Teacher Shop Online

Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 12pm - 8pm

Friday: 12pm- 6pm

Saturday: 10am - 5pm

Sunday: 12pm - 5pm

Address:

480 West Olentangy Street
Powell, OH 43065

Phone:

(614)793-2222