- What is your business? What do you enjoy about it?
I own Montavilla Guitar Studio. We teach guitar, bass, piano and even vocals to both kids and adults. I love the people part of the business. It’s great to be able to share music with kids and families. I also like the creativity that being a small business owner requires of you. I get to create my own world of systems and retain control. - How long have you been living & doing business in Montavilla?
I’ve been living in Montavilla since 2009 and doing business since 2013. I started operating out of my house, but eventually moved into a space in Downtown Montavilla in 2016. - What do you like to do outside of your business?
I also work as the Festival Director for the Montavilla Jazz Fest. This year, we actually broke our attendance record thanks to the talented musicians, generous sponsors and support from the community. That’s why I really like the festival – it brings the community together. You get to network and meet a lot of different people. - What would a perfect day in Montavilla look like?
I’d spend the afternoon at Mt. Tabor Park with my partner, Tina. It’s great to have it within walking distance from our house. I’d then grab Oregon Fry Bread and Chicken Sliders at the Observatory during cocktail hour. Afterwards, I would walk over to Cold as Ice and get one of their chocolate flavors before catching a movie at the Academy Theater. Finally, I’d cap my night with my favorite drink at Montavilla Brew Works: the Flam Tap. - What might readers be surprised to know about your business?
They might be surprised to know that we have folks from all over the Portland Metro area take lessons here. We have students from Corbett, Tigard, Hillsboro and more! - Did you always want to teach music?
I actually went to school for music performance. It wasn’t always the plan to teach, but as someone who loves music it was a natural transition. - If Montavilla had a theme song, what would it be?
Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey. I get so many requests from my students to teach that!

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