Some of the best musicians in the world didn’t come from big cities or fancy music schools—they came from small towns just like ours. There’s something special about learning music in a close-knit community, where everyone knows your name and every note you play can bring people together.
I know this firsthand because I grew up in a town of just 300 people in Illinois. Music was everywhere, even in a place so small. I started singing in public at 6, playing piano at 7, picked up guitar at 9, and because my school was so tight-knit, my teachers let me borrow an autoharp and bells so I could learn them on my own. I didn’t have access to fancy music schools, but I had the freedom to explore, experiment, and fall in love with music.
Music wasn’t just something I did for fun—it was part of my family. My family had a gospel group, and we traveled the Midwest performing together. The group needed a rhythm guitar player, so at just 9 years old—only two weeks after my first guitar lesson—I was performing with them. There was no waiting for “the right time” or years of training before getting on stage. I learned by doing, because that’s what small-town musicians do.
By the time I entered high school, I could play 10 instruments. Not because I had elite training, but because I lived in a town where music was accessible, teachers encouraged curiosity, and I had the time and space to truly explore different instruments.
So, why do small towns create such great musicians? Let’s dive in!
1. More Performance Opportunities 🎶
In a big city, students have to fight for stage time—there are tons of musicians competing for the same opportunities. But in a small town, there’s always a need for live music, whether it’s at church, a community event, a school concert, or a local festival. Even beginners get the chance to shine early on!
➡️ Why this matters: Performing in front of an audience builds confidence and experience fast. Small-town students don’t have to wait years to get on stage!
2. Music Brings the Community Together ❤️
In small towns, music isn’t just about practice—it’s about bringing people together. Whether it’s singing in church, playing at a local fair, or providing music for a town event, musicians are a huge part of the heartbeat of the community.
➡️ Why this matters: Students see how their music makes an impact—it’s not just an isolated skill, but a way to bless others! (1 Peter 4:10 – “Use your gifts to serve others.”)
3. Stronger Teacher-Student Relationships 👩🏫
In big cities, students are often just a number in a music school’s long roster. But in a small town, music teachers and students truly get to know each other. You see each other at the grocery store, at church, and at local events.
➡️ Why this matters: A personal connection makes students more engaged, and they’re more likely to stick with lessons long-term.
4. Small-Town Musicians Are More Versatile 🎻🎸
Because there are fewer musicians to go around, students in small towns often learn to play multiple instruments instead of just one. In a big city, a kid might specialize in violin, but in a small town, that same student might learn piano, guitar, AND voice because there’s a need for it.
➡️ Why this matters: Learning multiple instruments makes students well-rounded musicians and opens up more opportunities for them down the road.
5. Fewer Distractions = More Focused Learning 📚
Big cities come with tons of distractions—constant activities, long commutes, and high-pressure competition. In small towns, life moves at a slower pace, allowing students to focus more on their craft without feeling overwhelmed.
➡️ Why this matters: Consistent, focused practice time is key to becoming a great musician! (Proverbs 21:5 – “The plans of the diligent lead to profit.”)
Music and Me Academy 
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