Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 30, 2025

Looking Back on 2025 --
Thank You for Being Part of Our Family

As we approach the end of 2025, we find ourselves thinking back on the year behind us—on the music played, the milestones reached, and the faces we’ve seen walk through our doors week after week. It has been a year filled with growth, hard work, countless rehearsals, and so many moments that reminded us why we do what we do.

We watched shy beginners blossom into confident performers. We cheered for students stepping onto a stage for the first time, and we celebrated those who reached new heights in their musical journeys. We tuned guitars, mended nerves before concerts, laughed in hallways, and shared high-fives after lessons. Through every note, every challenge, and every victory, you were there.

Music Authority isn’t just a place to take lessons or pick up new gear—it’s a community. A family. And that family exists because of you. Thank you for trusting us with your music, for bringing your energy and enthusiasm, and for supporting local music education. You’ve helped us continue building a space where creativity thrives, where students feel safe to grow, and where music connects us all.

As we close out 2025 and look toward the new year, we are excited for what’s to come—new programs, new stages, and new opportunities to learn and create together. But for this moment, we simply want to pause and say:

Thank you for being part of the Music Authority family.
Thank you for another year of music and memories.
Thank you for believing in what we do.

Here’s to 2026—may it be filled with inspiration, growth, and a whole lot of great music.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - September 30, 2025

As the school year kicks into gear, families are settling into new routines, juggling homework, sports, and activities. At Music Authority, we know this season can feel busy—but it’s also the perfect time to find your rhythm. Music lessons provide structure, creativity, and a healthy outlet for students to express themselves during the school year.

Fall is also when we see students thrive in their musical growth. With consistent practice habits, upcoming performance opportunities, and the support of our talented instructors, students gain not only technical skills but also confidence and resilience.

This year, we’re especially excited about new lesson openings, fresh programs, and upcoming events designed to keep your child inspired. Whether your student is preparing for their very first recital or dreaming of playing on stage with a band, Music Authority is here to guide them every step of the way.

Let’s make this fall a season of growth, creativity, and—most importantly—fun!

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - August 26, 2025

Many of our Music Authority students are getting close to finishing their current level, and one question we’ve been hearing a lot is: “What exactly is a recital credit?”

A recital credit is earned any time your student performs on their instrument. This could be at a Music Authority Open Mic Night, a school talent show, Rock Camp, or one of our Music Authority recitals.

Why are recital credits important?
The earlier students gain experience performing on stage, the more confident they’ll be as they grow. Young children naturally don’t fear embarrassment, but as they get older, that fear can develop. Getting comfortable on stage early helps prevent stage fright later in life.

What else is required to complete a level?

• Book requirements: Each instrument has a different set of skills and materials to master.

• A jury: A short assessment with one of our instructors (we promise it’s much less intimidating than it sounds!).

• Advanced levels: Students will also begin exploring music history, learning about other instruments, and performing in larger ensembles.

If you’d like to know where your student currently is in their level—or if you have questions about recital credits—please stop by or call the front desk. We’re always happy to help!

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - June 24, 2025

At Music Authority, we believe that music is more than just notes and rhythm—it's a powerful force that brings people together. Over the years, our school has grown into more than just a place to take lessons; we've become a thriving community of musicians who support each other and give back to the world around us.

Our students, parents, and instructors form a network of passionate individuals who care about their craft—and each other. Whether it's mentoring younger students, volunteering at community events, or performing to raise money for important causes, the Music Authority family understands the value of paying it forward.

Programs like our Rock Ensemble, Adult Rock Camp, and Showcase Bands not only build confidence and skill, they instill leadership and compassion. Older students often step up to help newcomers, while adult musicians share stories of perseverance that inspire younger generations. These connections don’t end when the music stops; they continue in friendships, mentorships, and community outreach.

From benefit concerts to food drives, Music Authority musicians are always looking for ways to give back—and we're proud of that. Because when you nurture talent in a positive, supportive environment, you create more than great music. You create leaders. Role models. Changemakers.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Together, we’re building a better world—one song at a time.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - May 27, 2025

At Music Authority, music is more than just a personal pursuit—it’s a shared journey. Every day, our students show us that the power of music lies not only in notes and rhythms, but in the connections we build along the way. Whether it’s through duets in the hallway, shared laughter in group classes, or applause exchanged after a recital, our school thrives on a culture of encouragement and mutual inspiration.

We’ve seen beginners gain confidence by watching older students perform. We’ve seen advanced musicians offer tips and encouragement to their younger peers. Group classes and ensemble rehearsals aren’t just learning opportunities—they’re community-building experiences where students push each other to grow, experiment, and celebrate progress.

This spirit of support extends beyond the classroom. From practice challenges to collaborative compositions, our students are constantly finding ways to cheer each other on and lift each other up. It’s a reminder that in music, as in life, we go further together.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to nurturing this vibrant, inclusive environment—one where every student, no matter their age or level, knows they are part of something bigger. Because when students inspire each other, the entire community resonates with harmony.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - April 29, 2025

Not that long ago, I was asked what my "why" was.  It means, why do I come to work every day? Why do I choose the business that I work in over all other options?

Let me take you back to my early twenties. I was singing professionally and seriously considering pursuing a professional career in opera. (Yep, you heard me right.) I had just finished a short tour that culminated in a performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Back in Rome, Georgia, I had moved out of some performance rolls and was producing shows.

As I sat on the tour bus on the way home, I realized something life changing. I was more focused on the show I was producing than the one I just sang.  

Yes, New York was amazing.  Standing on a stage so many talented artists had stood on before me was humbling. Going to a little Italian restaurant to celebrate the after show dinner was incredible. Having the opportunity to see the original cast of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" (still one of my favorite musicals) at the Minskoff Theater was amazing.

But still, I was more focused on producing than on performing. 

When I honestly thought about why I felt that way, I realized (to steal a phrase from a book I read once), I got more out of being a Kingmaker than being a King. In short, my "yes" came from helping others to succeed.

Don't get me wrong, I love being on stage.  I love performing. I love hearing the applause when I finish a difficult song.

But more than that, I love seeing the first time performer smile at the end of their piece. I love watching someone get over stage fright. I love hearing the singer who has struggled for years suddenly "get it" and belt out a song that gives you goosebumps.

So, I change paths and I've never looked back.  I'm grateful that every day I get to see tiny successes. I'm excited to see each new win. To experience the smiles and the excitement.

One of my favorite wins is Dominic Perez. Some of you might remember him as the former drummer of Eclipse. He was born with dwarfism, and I had a staff member years ago who thought Dom would never make anything in music because of his stature.  (To be clear, this staff member is no longer here.) 

Dom had different ideas. We showed him what could be. The opportunities. The dream. 

Today, Dom lives in Nashville. He's recording with one band and is involved in two more. One of his bands plays a weekly spot on Broadway, "The Strip" in Nashville where all the tourists go to hear music. Did I make that happen? No. But I opened the door. Music Authority (with the help of a special shoe company) made it a little more possible. We helped him see how his dream of playing professionally could be a reality. We gave him steps to help him succeed. And then he did the hardest part by himself - he stepped up to the cliff of doubt and he flew. 

Dom isn't the only one who has made dreams into reality. This newsletter would never end if I listed them all. Some are small successes. Some are big. But they are all successes that make me want to come back to work tomorrow and the next day.

So that's my why.  Why I do this day in and day out. Why, when it gets difficult, I keep pushing. This is why I don't give up on students. It's why I get up in the morning.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - March 25, 2025

If you were at our Spring Show, you heard a story about a gentleman and his ukulele.  He had purchased a ukulele and tuner online and couldn't figure out how to tune the instrument. He brought it in and Andrew tuned it, determined the turner he'd purchased was broken, and talked the gentleman through how to play and showed him how to tune his instrument using a tuner we had in stock.

At the end of the interaction, then gentleman asked Andrew how much he owed him for tuning his uke. Andrew told him nothing, but asked if he would like to purchase the tuner.  The man replied, "Oh, no. I'll buy one online."

So let's recap. The gentleman used Andrew's knowledge. He learned from him, something that he couldn't do online. He benefited from Andrew's repair experience. And he used our tuner to get his instrument in tune. All for free.

In turn, he refused to purchase a $20 tuner.

Music Authority cannot survive on lessons alone.  Your lessons payment pays for your teacher and some of that money goes toward the administration (Natalie, Lynne, and Raima). The business has been built for retail to help support water bills, rent, insurance, electric bills, and the salaries of the sales staff.  

Take a light, for example.  Have you ever noticed a ceiling light not working at Music Authority?  It takes the sale of 14 tuners to replace that light.

We work our hardest to match prices online. Most of what we sell has pricing set by the manufacturer.  We can't control what a book costs, for example, the publisher sets the price. 

If you purchase all your strings, tuners, cables, and everything else online, Music Authority cannot survive. Or, at least, not as we are right now. We would be forced to scale down.  That means no Backroom. That means no sales staff to help you out when you can't figure out your amplifier or need someone to tune your guitar. That also means lessons prices would be forced to go up to cover the overhead our sales floor currently covers.

Amazon isn't providing you with a restroom to use when you're here. They're also not paying for the AC in the summer and the heat in the winter.

So, the next time you need a tuner, please just buy it.  Don't ask Jay T a bunch of questions and then order it on Amazon.  The last time I checked, Amazon doesn't pay Jay T's salary. They aren't supporting your community and they aren't providing opportunities for your student. We are. And we would appreciate your business.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - February 25, 2025

Music Authority first opened its doors on July 4th weekend, 2002. The first sale was a microphone clip and the first dollar from that sale is still on the wall in Melissa's office. Originally only two bays (we're five now), we opened with six instructors, five studios, and about thirty students. A grand opening celebration was held in September with food, sales, and a radio station broadcasting live.

Business was busy from the start. Only a year after opening, Music Authority expanded into the drum room by adding a third bay to it's footprint. The next year, the original owners, the Martins, decided to step down from the store. Despite only being married for eighteen months, Melissa and Andrew Loggins purchased the business on December 1, 2004.

By the time the Loggins' took ownership of Music Authority, Rock Camp was already a summer fixture. The new owners recognized that the "Old Way" of doing lessons (simply asking a student each week what he wanted to learn) wasn't going to bring longevity to program and only facilitated making neat sounds on your instrument without understanding of how to play, a lengthy over hall of the educational program began.

By 2008, the educational program you recognize today was built. It is a program that not only teaches students to make fun sounds on their instrument, but to also understand the language of music. Guitarists, vocalists, pianists, and other instruments are able to communicate and work together in bands. The cost of change was high - half the instructors at Music Authority decided to leave rather than embrace the new system. It was a necessary change that has made Music Authority a school of excellence.

Also in 2008, the first Spring Show took place in the Cumming Playhouse, Decades of Change. It was a tribute show to the 60's and 70's. Within two years, the program had grown to both Spring and Fall Shows and moved to The Warehouse on Post Road.

In 2015, Music Authority received it's first "Top 100" Award from the National Association of Music Merchants, an award we would continue to receive for the next 10 years consecutively. The award, which recognizes the top 100 music stores worldwide, is an honor and something we are very proud of.

Subsequent years brought in new talent and new teachers with vision. Musical Theater Camp came along followed by Rock Camp, Jr., Songwriting Camp, Jazz Band, and Adult Rock Camp. The Rock Ensembles were born starting with the now retired "Rise" in the summer of 2016.

September 12,  2017 introduced the world to a new organization: The Music Authority Roadies. This parent group functions as Music Authority's PTO, bringing the community, our teachers, and our families closer together.

Throughout the next decade, we have continued to grow, innovate, and add talented staff members. Our newest addition, a band that plays Indian Pop Music, will debut at the Spring Show on March 21, 2025.

So what does the future hold? A lot of work, passion, and excitement. We're lucky. We love our jobs, we love what we do at Music Authority, and we love the families we are able to serve. Along the way there have been struggles, tears, frustration, and triumph. We've seen students move on to huge success.

We're grateful for our place in the community and in your lives. Thank you for being part of our family, the Music Authority Family. Know that you are now part of a legacy that has touched the music industry and the Forsyth County community for almost 23 years. We have no plans to quit anytime soon. And we hope you'll continue to enjoy the ride with us!

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 28, 2025

I had an interesting interaction with a customer this week. His wife had ordered a piano book for her piano lessons. The book came in and on Saturday, while they were at Music Authority with their son for his piano lesson, the wife went to the front desk to pick up her book and pay for it.

Evin rang up the book and the woman was waiting with credit card in hand to pay for the book when the husband stopped her, asking her what she was doing. She explained she needed the book for her lessons and she was paying for it. He said, "No, we will buy it online."

Now, consider this. She is standing at the register, card in hand, book right in front of her. Evin didn't know what to do, so I stepped up and asked him why he wanted to buy it online when the book is right here and our price is the same you will pay online. He looked at me and asked, "How does it benefit me to buy it here and not online?"

I looked at him and replied, "If you purchase it here, you help me keep the doors open and your family will continue to have somewhere to take lessons."

You see, Music Authority needs its sales floor to help keep the doors open. Without sales, Evin, Gabe, and Landon won't have a paycheck, which means there's no one for you to come in and ask questions to. Without the sales floor, there is no Backroom to perform in or Drum Room for bands to practice in.

Is online convenient? Yes. I'll admit, Amazon stops too many times at Music Authority to drop off post it notes and pens.

But is it cheaper?  No. Most of the music industry is controlled by manufacturer pricing, something called MAP. If you have a new item with no blemishes or damage, you cannot sell it any lower than MAP. Everything at Music Authority that is subject to MAP pricing is at MAP. That means if you look at a Yamaha guitar at Music Authority, and then you look at the same guitar online, it should be the same price. If it isn't - you're not looking at the same guitar.

Books are subject to manufacturer pricing as well.  Look at the back of your book. The publisher has printed the price on the book and that's what we have to sell it for.

So, how does it benefit you to purchase from Music Authority? You get Evin and the rest of the crew to answer your questions and help you. You get free wi-fi while you wait for your student. You get a waiting area with comfortable chairs, a venue for your recitals, and programs like Rock Ensemble, Spring Show, and summer camp.

Please don't be that customer who comes in, talks to our sales staff (which costs us money because we're paying them to help you), looks at a guitar for three weeks, and then purchases that exact guitar online. Yes, it happens. (A local school teacher came in every week for four weeks and spent over an hour with Jay T looking at a particular Taylor guitar. Then he purchased the same, $3000 guitar online because he thought he was getting a deal. The guitar arrived with some issues that he then had to pay to have taken care of - which meant he ultimately spent more money by buying online.)

Let us serve you. Please consider making a purchase from us. When you do, you're helping us pay Evin and the rest of the guys, and you're helping to keep the opportunities at Music Authority affordable. We're able to keep prices down by keeping the sales floor alive.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily

Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 31, 2024

It's been quite the year at Music Authority. From serious illness to lifechanging moves, we've seen staff members take extended leaves of absence this year or resign to start new life journeys. As the year wraps up, we get a little nostalgic, wishing all our staff members - both current and former - great things and happy times ahead.

We said goodbye to Mr. Mitchell who started a new life adventure in Savannah and to Mr. Antonio who moved to Connecticut. Other instructors, too, made life changing moves to new jobs, relationships, and to be with family. They all left their mark on Music Authority and will part of our story always. 

We also like to look back and celebrate. So many lives have been positively impacted by music this year. From Mr. Cody's celebrity status at Rock Camp to a Showcase Band trip to Auburn, we've had a truly blessed year watching our musicians young and old stretch their wings and start to fly.

Retail has been a struggle this year (it always is during election years), but you helped us pull through and remembered us at the holidays. We hope all of you are enjoying your guitars, banjos, effects pedals, and amplifiers. We're grateful to have the support of our customers. You keep the doors open and the teachers in studios. We can't do this without you and we appreciate it every time you choose to spend your dollars with us instead of a more flashy guitar store or online.

What we want to say most is this: thank you for being part of the Music Authority Family. Coming to lessons, telling your friends, helping us to continue to grow and be better, all of these things are so important. What we do is act with passion. All of us - the staff, the instructors, the owners - we are here because we love our jobs and we love building musical relationships with you.

Thank you for helping us through 2024. It was a tough year. Now, let's all raise a glass and walk into 2025 with our heads and hopes high. Happy New Year!

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily