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Student Spotlight

Mar 23 2026

Student Spotlight: Lex Bauman — Turning Volume Up on the Dream

Some students take lessons. Lex Bauman is building a career. Watch his full video interview

From the moment he picked up a guitar at nine years old, Lex knew exactly what he was looking at: something awesome. A year later, he added vocals. Now? He’s not just playing music, he’s writing it, recording it, releasing it, and chasing it full force.

This is what it looks like when passion gets serious.

Lex currently balances his schedule through Whitmore’s asynchronous online program, giving him the flexibility to focus on what matters most: making music. And he’s using that time well. He already has multiple original songs available on streaming platforms, along with music videos that bring his sound to life.

👉 Listen to Lex Bauman on streaming platforms: Search “Lex Bauman”
👉 Follow him on Instagram: @lexbaumanguitar
👉 TikTok: @lexbaumanofficial

Start with his top tracks:

  • Evangeline
  • My Girlfriend’s Best Friend
  • Taylor Swift

This isn’t a “someday” artist. This is happening right now.

Like every real musician, the journey didn’t start easy. Early on, it was the physical grind—sore fingers, building calluses, pushing through the uncomfortable stage where most people quit. But Lex didn’t.

And that’s where the difference shows.

“Just don’t give up on what you really care about,” he says. “If you really love it, don’t get discouraged.”

That mindset carried him from beginner to recording artist—and it’s exactly what we see in students who go the distance.

Lex is also quick to point out something a lot of young musicians miss: YouTube can only take you so far. Real growth happens when you’re in the room, learning from experienced teachers, picking up the details—the “secret skills”—that shape you into a real musician.

👉 Meet our teachers & Learn about Lessons: https://musicroyale.com/lessons

At Music Royale, Lex found more than lessons. He found a community.

From Open Mic Nights to Rock School, he’s been in the mix—performing, collaborating, and figuring out what it really means to be in a band. Rock School, especially, was a turning point. It gave him his first real band experience and helped lock in his direction.

“That’s when it clicked—this is what I want to do.”

And he means it.

Lex’s long-term plan? Go all in. Music first. No hesitation.

One of his biggest accomplishments so far has been working on his own record—stepping back and realizing, I made this. That moment hits different. It’s not practice anymore. It’s real.

Behind the scenes, he’s also diving into music videos—long days, hard work, but something he genuinely enjoys. Because when you love it, the grind becomes part of the reward.

His influences? Legends and lifers. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Butch Walker. Tuck Smith. Artists who built careers on authenticity, energy, and staying power.

And that’s exactly the lane Lex is stepping into.

At the core of it all, he credits the people who helped him get there—especially his teachers, Scott Gorsuch and Phil Smith. That mentorship, that connection, that guidance—it matters.

👉 Start your own journey: https://musicroyale.com
👉 Contact us today: https://musicroyale.com/contact

Because every rockstar starts somewhere.

Some start later.
Some start casually.
And some—like Lex—start early, lock in, and don’t look back.

If you’ve been thinking about lessons, joining Rock School, or stepping on stage for the first time, take this as your sign.

Start now. Stay with it. Turn it up. 🎸

Read our other blogs!

Written by megan · Categorized: Student Spotlight · Tagged: guitar, Music Royale, Student spotlight

Dec 20 2025

Student Spotlight: Emily Graham — A Young Artist Turning Talent Into Triumph

At Music Royale, we are constantly inspired by students who chase their artistic goals with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of rock-n-roll energy. This month’s Student Spotlight features Emily Graham—a senior at Worthington Christian, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and performer whose journey shows exactly what happens when passion meets perseverance. Watch her full interview video here.

Emily has been a familiar face around Music Royale for years, studying under instructor Deanna Sweeney and sharpening her skills through lessons, open mic nights, recitals, and countless hours of practice. If her story resonates with you, you can explore our full range of music lessons.


From Drums to Guitar: A Musician in Motion

Emily started her musical journey early—really early.

“I’ve played drums since I was five and guitar since I was seven,” she says with a smile. “Piano too… not very well,” she laughs, “but well enough to accompany myself.”

Singing, however, has always been at her core. But after realizing it was difficult to sing her favorite songs while playing drums (“there are no chords on drums!”), guitar became the natural next step. She wanted to accompany herself the way her favorite artists did—and she never looked back.

If you’re curious how students like Emily discover their next instrument, you can learn more About Music Royale.


Overcoming the First Big Hurdle

Emily is honest about the toughest part of learning guitar.

“The biggest challenge was definitely fingering the chords,” she explains. “Your fingers hurt when you’re first learning, and you can’t always apply full pressure. So it sounds like you’re muting even when you’re not.”

Every guitarist knows this stage—and Emily pushed straight through it. Today?

“My fingers are so calloused I don’t even feel it anymore. That’s how much I’ve played.”

Students facing similar challenges can always reach out for guidance. If you’re struggling with technique or want expert help, contact us here.


Influences: A Wide, Colorful Palette

Emily isn’t afraid to blend genres or study a diverse range of artists. Her playlist includes:

  • Billie Eilish
  • The Cranberries
  • Fleetwood Mac
  • “A lot of everything,” she adds.

She’s intentional about absorbing different sounds to shape her own artistic voice. You can explore her world and upcoming releases at her official website.

And stream her debut single “Roses” and follow-up single “Unfazed” on Spotify.


How Music Lessons Changed Everything

Before coming to Music Royale, Emily tried learning guitar through YouTube tutorials—but something wasn’t clicking.

“There’s nothing like having a person who is a master at what they’re doing teaching you,” she says. “It completely changed the game for me.”

Her proudest achievements on guitar reflect that dedication:

  • Learning intricate fingerpicking pieces, especially Autumn Leaves by Eva Cassidy
  • Mastering bar chords after months of determination

Emily’s growth shows what can happen when students work with expert instructors and receive truly personalized guidance.


The Magic Behind the Struggle

Emily’s advice for beginners is wise beyond her years:

“Don’t compare yourself to expert musicians. They should inspire you, not discourage you. You won’t sound like them right away—but you will someday.”

For musicians facing a plateau, she offers her most powerful encouragement yet:

“When you’re struggling and you want to quit, that’s when the magic happens.”

She knows this firsthand. Emily has been a songwriter for years, and pushing through frustration led to some of her biggest breakthroughs—including recording trips to Los Angeles.


Recording in LA: A Dream Turned Reality

For three years, Emily has worked with The Songwriting School in LA, meeting weekly on Zoom with other teen songwriters from across the country. Eventually, her mentor told her:

“We’ve got to get you out here to record.”

Last March, she flew out and recorded four songs in three days. Two of those tracks—“Roses” and “Unfazed”—are now available on Spotify. She returned in August and recorded six more songs in just three days.

“It was go, go, go—but amazing,” she says.


Finding Community at Music Royale

Emily’s favorite part of being a Music Royale student is the people.

“The community here is incredible. The open mics are so encouraging and welcoming. I’ve been to a lot of open mics where it isn’t like that—but here, everyone is excited for you.”

If your instrument ever needs attention before an open mic or gig, our Fretted Instrument repair shop has your back.

And for more inspiring student stories like Emily’s, follow the Music Royale Blog.


What’s Next for Emily?

Emily plans to major in commercial music in college. Her top schools include:

  • Berklee College of Music (Boston)
  • University of Miami (Florida)
  • Belmont University (Nashville)

There’s no doubt she’s on track to thrive—on stage, in the studio, and everywhere music takes her.


Where to Hear More from Emily

Emily is actively releasing new music and growing her catalog.

🖤 Stream her tracks by searching “Emily Graham” on Spotify
🖤 Follow her journey at https://emilygrahamofficial.com/home

She’s the real deal—talented, driven, and full of the spark we love to see in young musicians.And if you’re ready to start your musical journey, or support a student who’s ready to rock, explore everything Music Royale has to offer.

Written by megan · Categorized: Student Spotlight

Nov 14 2025

🎻 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

Written by megan · Categorized: Student Spotlight

Aug 22 2025

🎻 Music Royale Student Spotlight: Sophia P.

“Being musical just makes life more interesting.”

At Music Royale, your Friendly Neighborhood Music Store, we’re proud to support students who bring curiosity, talent, and heart to their musical journeys. This month, we’re turning the spotlight on Sophia P., a violinist whose story hits all the right notes from first lessons to personal breakthroughs to big dreams beyond the practice room.

Sophia’s full interview is live now—watch it here—and trust us, you’ll leave inspired.

🎻 Seven Years of Strings and Self-Discovery

Sophia started playing violin back in fifth grade. She’s been taking lessons at Music Royale for three years, but she’s been playing for over seven. Her first big hurdle? Getting that wrist under control and making her fingers cooperate with her brain. Classic violin struggles are real, but thanks to the guidance of her teacher, Megan Wetzel, Sophia powered through and found her groove.

And speaking of groove, her current favorite piece is “The Giver” by rising star Chappell Roan. “I feel like I really connect with it,” she says. But ask her about the piece she performed for her high school orchestra concert and her eyes light up: it was the “Howl’s Moving Castle” theme, a cinematic favorite that matched her vibe perfectly.

💡 Lessons That Go Beyond Technique

For Sophia, private lessons at Music Royale weren’t just about improving skills, they were about discovering her own voice.

“In orchestra, I blended in,” she explains. “But lessons gave me a sense of individuality in my playing. I started thinking more about how I want to sound, not just following the group.”

Through her time here, she mastered vibrato, improved her finger control, and gained a new confidence that comes through in every performance.

💥 Musical Taste with Edge

Sophia’s playlist? As cool and eclectic as she is. Top artists include Chappell Roan and Luna, but she’s quick to admit her musical taste is hard to pin down. From classical to jazz to fiddle tunes, she loves that the violin is not a one-sound-fits-all kind of instrument.

“You can do so much with it. It’s just a really cool instrument.”

If you’ve ever wondered what kind of sound you could make on the violin, it’s time to find out. Try your first lesson today.

🛠️ What’s Next: Theater Tech and Concert Dreams

This fall, Sophia heads to Bowling Green State University to major in Theater Technology and Design. She’s excited to work behind the scenes in concert venues, musical productions, and everything in between.

Her dream? To be the one making sure the show goes on.

Whether she’s tuning instruments, stage managing, or offering musical support backstage, Sophia’s learned that music is more than performance, it’s about connection, collaboration, and energy.

🌟 Advice from Sophia

To new musicians:

“Find what you want to play. That’s what makes it fun.”

To struggling musicians:

“It’s okay to step back. Look at the big picture before you focus on the details.”

To anyone thinking about trying music:

“Just do it. Even if it takes time, it’s so worth it.”

🧡 Why She Loves Music Royale

Sophia’s favorite part of lessons? “It never felt like a chore,” she says. “It was something I looked forward to. The people are kind, the vibe is great, and my teacher was the perfect fit.”

That’s the experience we work hard to create every day at Music Royale, a place where you can grow, explore, and feel right at home. From our convenient location to our warm, welcoming atmosphere, we’re here to make music feel good.

🎥 Catch the Full Interview

Ready to meet Sophia and hear her story in her own words?

👉 Watch the Student Spotlight video now

👉 Learn more about violin lessons

👉 Meet our teachers

👉 Sign up for your first lesson

👉 Check out upcoming recitals and events

👉 Shop gear and strings

👉 Explore all student stories on our blog

From blending into orchestra sections to stepping into her own spotlight, Sophia’s journey is a reminder of what happens when music becomes personal.

Here’s to the future of music and to the students who keep it alive.

Rock on, Sophia. 🎶🎭🔥

Written by megan · Categorized: Student Spotlight

Jun 27 2025

Music Royale Student Spotlight: Nathan L.

We’re thrilled to shine a light on one of our graduating seniors in this edition of our Student Spotlight Series. This musician has grown with us from the very beginning. Meet Nathan, a dedicated and talented saxophonist and pianist who has been a part of the Music Royale family for over six years.

🎓 Nathan is a 2025 graduate of Olentangy Liberty High School and is headed to Case Western Reserve University this fall, where he plans to major in Biochemistry on the pre-med track. But his journey with music won’t stop there! He’s taking his saxophone with him and is already looking ahead to joining jazz and classical ensembles on campus.

🎷🎹 In his own words, Nathan shares how music has shaped his life and how it gave him a reason to keep practicing, helped him stay ahead in school band, and connected him with the legacy of his great-grandfather and great-uncle, both jazz saxophonists.

We are so proud of Nathan, not just for his musical accomplishments like earning a “one” on his solo at Ensemble, but for his passion, commitment, and humility. His words are an inspiration to students of all ages, and we encourage you to watch the full video to hear Nathan’s story in his own voice.

🎥 Click here to watch: https://youtu.be/li7Vjx-U9_c?si=2Tf0XBbS_OVOJcDM

He reflects on:

  • The challenge of learning piano as a complete beginner

  • The coordination needed to master saxophone technique

  • The value of having multiple teachers and learning different styles

  • His favorite recital moment performing Schumann’s Fantasy Piece

  • And his personal advice for young or struggling musicians

It all starts with a single lesson.

🎶 Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, our experienced and diverse team of instructors can help guide your musical path.

📚 Learn more about our Private Music Lessons

👩‍🏫 Meet the Music Royale Teaching Staff

📩 Have questions? Contact Us to get started today!

And don’t forget to stay connected with us online for more student features, music tips, and local music news.

📱 Follow Music Royale on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Congratulations, Nathan. We’re so excited to see where your music—and your dreams—take you next!

Written by megan · Categorized: Student Spotlight

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