The Sound Expands: The Music Circle Grows + Upcoming Showcase

What started as free guitar lessons at the Sno-Isle Food Co-op in early 2017 has evolved into quite the show.

Everett’s Jonathan Olson first developed those free guitar lessons back in 2017 into what became The Guitar Circle, spending years teaching group guitar classes in Everett. Jonathan’s vision for his music school has continued to grow into The Music Circle, adding voice, piano, and drums to the class offerings. 

The Music Circle now has multiple studio rooms and rehearsal space next to Lucky Dime in Downtown Everett.

Images courtesy of The Music Circle

While students only need to be at least 8 years old to join the circle, which brings various ages and skill sets to the group, Jonathan loves the challenge. “My greatest asset is being able to intertwine the newbie with the shredder,” Jonathan shared.

It’s clear Jonathan is passionate about seeing people in the community play music together and having fun. The Music Circle expanded to its additional class offerings in January 2024, and all classes meet together once per month for a group jam. 

The most common reservation Jonathan hears from potential students is, “I’m too old to learn.” 

Images courtesy of The Music Circle

“Talent needs to be developed,” Jonathan emphasizes. “The journey is worth it- especially when you have people beside you. If you really want to learn an instrument, do it with other people beside you. That’s really the heart of the school.”

Images courtesy of The Music Circle

Before Jonathan began developing the vision of his music school, he commuted four hours per day to Seatle to do AV gigs. His son was one at the time, and he knew there was something he could develop closer to home that he was more passionate about.

It’s been inspiring to see Jonathan’s steadfast pursuit of bringing group music lessons to Everett. Jonathan even has some ideas about potentially creating classes for younger kids and/or expanding to additional locations. 

For now, The Music Circle is open for group lessons in the heart of downtown Everett, continuing to bring the community together. 

Images courtesy of The Music Circle

Twice per year, The Music Circle puts on a student showcase. The next showcase is happening soon, on June 7, 2024, Peace & Love From Laurel Canyon will be performing for one night only at the Historic Everett Theatre. 

The show is the perfect chance to see what The Music Circle students can do. Could that be you up on the stage at the next showcase?

Click here to buy tickets for the June 7 show, and check out The Music Circle website to learn more about joining the circle and developing your talent. 


The Music Circle
1616 Hewitt Ave
Everett, WA 98201


 

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