🎻 Student Spotlight: Cena Baker

November 14, 2025

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 Cena 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

Cena’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,” Cena 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 Cena, 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, Cena 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 Cena’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 Cena 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

Cena 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”

Cena’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. 🎶🔥

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