Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim O’Brien.
Hi Kim, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started piano lessons at seven, and piano has always been my main instrument and the heart of what I teach. In college, I picked up guitar, and as an adult, I fell in love with the cello. About 15 years ago, I founded *The Music Abode* to create a more personal, community-based approach to music lessons. What started with a few piano students has grown into a collective of professional instructors serving hundreds of students across Orange County. Along the way, I also began selling Kala ukuleles and leading group ukulele classes, which have been a great way to bring people together through music. We offer several performance opportunities throughout the year, including biannual full-stage recitals, which are such rewarding experiences for our students and families. It’s been amazing to see how this passion has evolved into a thriving music community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but every challenge has been a learning experience. I’ve always been open to trying new things and finding creative solutions to help the business grow. In the early days, there weren’t many systems designed specifically for music schools, so we used yoga studio scheduling software and had to adapt everything to fit our needs. As we grew, we also learned how important it is to find the right instructors who align with our teaching values and approach. That sometimes meant having difficult but honest conversations when someone wasn’t the right fit. Through a lot of trial and error, refining our processes, and staying focused on what really matters—the educational growth of our students and the families we serve—we’ve been able to build something strong and lasting.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Music Abode. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The Music Abode is a collective of passionate, professional instructors offering private and group music lessons across Orange County. We specialize in piano, which is my main instrument, but we also offer voice, guitar, ukulele, and string lessons for all ages and levels. What sets us apart is our personal, community-based approach — we really get to know each student and their family, and we tailor lessons to their individual goals and learning styles.
We’re known for creating meaningful performance opportunities, including several community events each year and our biannual full-stage recitals, which give students a professional, confidence-building experience.
I’m most proud of how the brand has stayed true to its roots — focused on education, creativity, and connection. Over the past 15 years, we’ve built a trusted reputation not just for quality instruction, but for helping students fall in love with music and stay inspired. Whether it’s a child learning their first song or an adult picking up an instrument for the first time, The Music Abode is all about nurturing that lifelong joy in music.
How do you define success?
I define success through the growth I see in my students — the happiness, struggle, joy, dedication, and patience that come with learning music. Watching them overcome challenges and discover what they’re capable of is incredibly fulfilling. On a more personal level, I feel most successful when those around me are thriving — whether it’s a student gaining confidence, a teacher finding their rhythm, or a program coming together. When I can see that I’ve played even a small part in someone else’s success, that’s what truly feels like success to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Themusicabode.com
- Instagram: the_music_abode
- Facebook: TMAOC
