Norristown Small Business Spotlight: Lark Music

NORRISTOWN, PA -- Every community relies upon the pillars of small businesses.

From antique shops and photography studios to dentists and pet sitters, small, local companies are crucial to everyday life.

Patch's small business spotlight seeks to shine a light on these important members of the Norristown community.

Business name: Lark Music

Owner: Candace Lark-Masucci

Address: 2012 Birchwood Drive, Norristown

Website: www.larkmusic.org

When did you go into business?

"I started Lark Music in 1999 in Philadelphia out of my parents house while in college. I play the Harp and needed to maintain my harp, my car, college expenses where piling up and my part time job was not enough. So I started offering beginner piano lessons, and the rest is history."

How did you come up with the name?

"My last name is Lark and the Lark bird is a very happy musical bird (like myself). It just seemed right to call it Lark Music."

Why start a business here?

"I moved here upon getting married and already had students in the area. Ill be honest I knew very little about Norristown but I knew I liked it here and just took a shot in the dark. Norristown is a very central town, your about 30mins from just about every where. Its great because it makes me geographically accessible. I have students from Bluebell, Northwales, Lansdale, Brynmawr, Ardmore, King of Prussia, Conshohocken and of course Norristown. Its great."

Briefly, what business are you in?

"Lark Music offers private lessons in Harp, Piano, Voice and Trumpet to all ages and levels. Lark Music's purpose is to offer Performance and Professional development so young artists know how to present themselves professionally and understand the business aspects of being an artist."

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

"The most difficult challenge is keeping myself economical. I'm very aware of the cost that come along with lessons. Its important to me that anyone that wants to learn music, can. But of course there are expenses and bills to pay."

What's been your favorite moment/proudest achievement since opening?

"This a very hard question to answer. There are many. If I have to pick one, it would be running into former students who have graduated from college, and tell me how much what they learned has helped them and meant to them. That means the world to me."

How does your business give back/get involved in the community?

"We give back in various ways, our recitals are always free and open to the public. At our annual recitals Lark Music request that students, parents and guest bring items (socks, blankets, underwear, thermal apparel) for the Norristown shelter. We also collect items for our servicemen (chapstick, sun block, calling cards, and energy bars.) Students are also encouraged to perform at senior centers and community centers.

"I am currently working on a interactive work shop for local elementary and middle schools. The workshop will introduce Harp, to students through games and songs they already know."