Today we’d like to introduce you to Janine Thomas.
Hi Janine, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
How did I get here?…I often ask myself that question. I would say it’s due to the belief that the journey doesn’t need to have a preplanned destination. I say “yes” to opportunities, “yes” to dreams, and “yes” to trying something completely new without any proof it will materialize. I say “yes” before I become hostage to fear. The bright idea of learning to play saxophone at age fifty led to a rewarding career owning a music school and local retail shop that has been growing for seven years. I have nurtured the belief that all things are possible. I practice intentional living and it has been life changing to say the least. After many rewarding careers, the opportunity to open Carlsbad Village Music presented itself. As the doors opened, I stepped through.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life hasn’t always been smooth, but the word “struggle” has not been part of my current vocabulary or career number six. There have been challenges, opportunities, and pivots for sure, but I choose not to struggle. I watch for open pathways and keep my eye on the goal. Most importantly I choose to have fun along the way. I have been inspired by many to follow my bliss.
Fear is always lurking and has the potential to strangulate. The first month I opened my doors in the summer of 2018, I was faced with payroll exceeding $35,000. That was a sleepless night. I was faced with the choice of feeling excitement for a bustling business, or paralizing fear of failure. I have learning to always choose the thoughts that elevate my mood and bring me the most joy. Fear never wins out.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Carlsbad Village Music?
Carlsbad Village Music brings passion, creativity and healing together. We have a thriving music school for all ages experiencing all types of instruments. As a music retailer, we are honored to sell Fender, Gretsch, Seagull, Casio, Kala, Vic Furth, and many more. We are a pleasant surprize when people walk through the door. To incorporate years as a licensed therapist and adjunct college professor teaching addition studies, we have opened a recovery shop (within the shop) to provide treasures for those recovering from addition. We are much more than meets the eye.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
The first step is willingness to say “yes”, “I’ll give it a try”, “absolutely”, “sign me up”, and “why not?” This is the attitude we like to pass on to our new students as well.
Next is action. We all stay busy and focused, and I try to stay in the present moment where I feel joy and peace.
Nothing is ever done alone. I surround myself with people who amaze and inspire me. My team members at CVM are incredibly talented, hard working, brilliant musicians dedicated to the music industry.
Lastly we are mindful to give back. Sharing with our customers, the community, and to our beautiful world are key elements in our business.
Pricing:
- Weekly private lessons are $168 monthly
- Weekly group experience is $150 per month
- Guitars range from $199 – $4000
- Gifts average $10
- The joy of learning music, (or being in recovery), can be priceless.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carlsbadvillagemusic.com/
- Instagram: @carlsbadvillagemusic
- Facebook: Carlsbad Village Music
Image Credits
Lexi Thurman
