Meet Michael Carpenter Jr | Musician and Music Academy Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Carpenter Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started playing music at the young age of eight years old. My parents were very supportive, and enrolled me in weekly private lessons throughout my youth and into adulthood. I learned from amazing music teachers who had a variety of teaching styles. Coupled with growing up in a household where my father ran his own business, and my mother was a teacher- the fusion of the two felt very natural. I started teaching music at the age of 20 in the suburbs of Detroit, and was able to build a very loyal and large clientele before eventually moving to LA in 2014. When I arrived in LA, I knew two people and had to rebuild my clientele. I was lucky enough to meet talented musicians and Academy owners within the first few months, who gave me opportunities to perform and teach on a regular basis. I applied the same diligence that built my reputation in Detroit to LA. I got to a point where starting my own Academy not only felt inevitable, but also necessary for growth in my career and in my personal goals. I have an extremely supportive fiancée, family, and community in Detroit and Los Angeles that have helped me every step of the way. Carpenter Music Academy opened in Fall 2024.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Carpenter Music Academy has been an idea of mine for a very long time. I wanted to make a school where children, teens, and adults feel welcome. I have been affiliated as a student or as staff with many music schools throughout my life. Too many schools tailor their business models, decor, and philosophy only to children. This tends to turn away teens and adults who want to learn music. My goal was to create an Academy that represents my style-the artists, colors, and design. I wanted to make it feel ageless so adults coming to learn will feel as comfortable as children.
Preparing myself to make the move from an independent music teacher to a music academy owner was a natural progression. I was able to build up a strong roster of students of all ages over the last decade. The vast majority of my students have been with me for multiple years. The school is directly reflective of my student base. It makes me elastic in how I teach. One student wants to learn classical, another may want 60s rock, and another may want to make a hip hop beat. The school’s core is to cater to what the student wants, and help them grow into their musical personality.
The most important lesson I’ve learned in my music career is do not overthink. Take calculated risks. The life of an artist can be difficult because you are responsible for everything. There is no structure unless you make it yourself. It’s easy to stay comfortable, but all of my personal successes have come when I tried something new.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love asking visiting family a simple question-do you want beach or do you want city? If the answer is city, I take them to some of my places in the Echo Park area. 1642 has been my favorite bar/jazz club since I moved here. Masa’s deep dish pizza is very reminiscent of the midwest and from there, it’s a short walk to Bar Flores, which has a great outdoor patio area.
If they say beach I take them to Malibu. We make the scenic drive up PCH to Zuma, El Matador, or Point Dume beach. After a beach day, I love going to Neptune’s Net to cap of the day with burgers and a beer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout this process of opening the school there were so many people who played a huge role. My fiancee Alexis has been amazing. She designed the interior and helped manage the craziness in starting a brick and mortar business. My good friend Ronen Simon was instrumental in helping me find the building, design the layout, and bring the vision to life. My parents and sisters in Detroit have been supportive and helpful every step of the way. My students (and their families) have been imperative to the growth of the business. Lastly, my friends in the musical community of LA for the inspiration!

Website: https://www.carpentermusicacademy.com

Instagram: @carpentermusicacademy @michaelcarpenterjr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564869470807

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/carpenter-music-academy-los-angeles

Other: Book a lesson
contact@carpentermusicacademy.com

Image Credits
Photo: Bryan Hugo Iglesias
@Bryanhiglesias