Today we’d like to introduce you to Common Tone.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
We met in 2016 when we were both working as music teachers at McDonogh School in Owings Mills, MD. Beth taught elementary performing arts classes and directed the choir, and Mike directed the percussion ensemble and middle school band. During this time, we began to collaborate in and out of the classroom, co-teaching and writing music together. Our collaboration became more frequent during the pandemic as everyone searched for new ways to stay connected. This turned into weekly hangouts via Zoom where we would chat about song ideas, write lyrics, and compose original music. As we returned to in-school teaching in 2021, our creative sessions continued which led to bigger and broader ideas about teaching music to young children. We were looking for a change outside of classroom teaching, but wanted to continue to promote joy and authenticity through music. As a result, we launched Common Tone in 2024 to provide music enrichment programming and performances in schools, community centers, and small businesses in the greater Baltimore area.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As two music teachers turned small business owners, there have been quite a few learning curves along the way. We began Common Tone almost solely based on our vision and passion for teaching, but we have little to no background or experience when it comes to running a business. Luckily, we’ve had tons of support and guidance from friends, family, and experts in various fields. As teachers, we always tell our students to be lifelong learners and it feels good to practice what we teach!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The most meaningful moment in a child’s musical journey is when they find their spark. This is made possible through positive community connection, space for exploration, and self-discovery. At Common Tone, we believe in the value of providing an authentic experience for each child. We guarantee that every class uses live music and real instruments because playing music is better together, and Common Tone is better with you!
Common Tone music enrichment programming promotes authentic music exploration for children of all ages. We encourage everyone to develop a love for music and a shared desire to explore its boundless possibilities. Through thoughtful curricula, original music, and interactive learning experiences, children can explore their creativity and express themselves authentically. Common Tone believes in cultivating a community of dedicated educators and musicians who engage and inspire students by implementing the use of authentic instruments and encouraging self-discovery through music.
Through Common Tone, we are able to reach many diverse communities and provide a space for people of all ages to interact creatively. We currently do not have a physical space to call home (a hope for the future!), but this allows us to partner with schools, community centers, and small businesses where we can foster individual relationships among each community.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I guess you could say that we are lucky to be 100% aligned with our vision of Common Tone and where we want to go with this business. Despite the hard work and late nights, we always manage to have fun and remind ourselves that we are in this together, which makes everything better. Coincidentally, our theme song that we sing in all of our classes is called “Better Together”!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.commontonemusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commontonemusic
