10 Questions: Birmingham's New Axis Music Academy

Open since January 2012, Birmingham's is the third location for this family-owned chain of music education centers. Axis Music Academy offers several classes, as well as private lessons, in singing, performing, playing various musical instruments and composing. The business first opened in 1996 in Southfield as a four-studio guitar lesson business.

John Antone is the founder and CEO of the Axis Music Academy.

Birmingham Patch: At what moment did you decide to open the Birmingham location of the Axis Music Academy?

John Antone: I live in the area and wanted to serve the community as there was nothing of any substance in the market. I decided in early 2011.

Patch: What inspires you everyday when you come in for work?

Antone: What we do for our students and their families. We teach anyone how to play, sing, compose, record and perform. We also mentor the kids and have a very close relationship with their parents.

Patch: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Antone: A professional musician.

Patch: What are some of the biggest challenges facing you as a small business owner in Birmingham?

Antone: Having enough space. 

Patch: Why did you choose Birmingham for the Axis Music Academy?

Antone: Birmingham has been an underserved market. We had a very good feeling that the community would embrace us.

Patch: What have been some of your more rewarding, fun experiences at the store so far?

Antone: It's rewarding each day for me. To know that I create a home for very talented instructors, empower students to realize their potential and have a great support staff to ensure that it's a killer and fun experience.

Patch: How does your personality play into your business?

Antone: It's a common vision between myself, our staff, students, instructors and families. We continually shape our business around what people look for in our industry.

Patch: What's one thing about your business that you would never change?

Antone: The way that we are always changing and adapting.

Patch: What's your favorite spot in Birmingham?

Antone: The Axis Music Academy.

Patch: What would you like the Birmingham community to know about yourself?

Antone: We teach all ages, styles and levels, all year round. Day, evening and weekend availability. Private lesson, and classes that include Music Discovery, Glee Club and Rock Band, to name a few. This is also our 16th years in business and we are a family business, owned and operation. We also have academies in Southfield and Canton and teach all the core basics with a custom-curriculum tailored for each individual along with TONS OF FUN!

Have a business you would like to nominate for 10 Questions? Email your recommendations to Laura.Houser@patch.com.