SARASOTA, FL – On January 31, leaders of local music school Music Compound received a video message from Johnny Wilson, founder of Build a Music School, with a celebratory message: the company had been recognized with the Music School Business Breakthrough Award for studios with 100-500 students. Music Compound was honored for its innovation, growth, and community impact.

The award has earned a trip for President/Owner Jenny Townsend to the Build a Music School Conference (BAMCON 2025) in Cancun, Mexico from March 30-April 3, 2025. During BAMCON, Townsend will speak about her music school journey and share insights to educate and inspire her peers.

During his video, Wilson noted that the competition in the Business Breakthrough category was particularly fierce, with just a few points’ difference between the top contenders.

“We got to see the highlight reel [featuring] your school and the stories of what you're doing and we're just blown away by your passion and vision for where you're taking this,” Wilson said. “We had lots of judges scoring across many different areas and when it all came out … you were the tip-top winner, and we thought you were absolutely amazing. We can't wait to meet and hang out with you!”

BAMS is the world's top membership organization for music teaching business owners and music teachers. The mission of Build a Music School is to support music educators through Build a Music School membership, with resources ranging from expert coaching and personalized guidance to comprehensive online tools to help members grow their music school and achieve their vision. #BAMSQUAD members each carry forward the vision of nurturing musical talent and fostering a supportive community of music educators.

Music Compound is coming off a highly successful 2024, with record attendance at its concerts, impactful community collaborations, and the launch of innovative programs such as its Album Ensemble, which combines instructors and students to perform some of the music’s most renowned albums. Most notably, the company consolidated its Sarasota and Manatee County operations into a state-of-the-art, 10,000-square-foot new facility at 775 Bell Road in Sarasota.

“This award is a reflection of the incredible community we've built together: our passionate students, dedicated instructors, supportive families, and everyone who has been part of our journey," said founder/owner Jenny Townsend. "Our word of the year for 2025 is GROW. But growth isn’t just about getting better at an instrument or learning new skills—it’s about expanding our community, embracing creativity, and reaching new heights together. We are grateful to all involved in the Build a Music School awards for affirming we’re on the right track!”

Since its founding nine years ago, Music Compound has welcomed nearly 185 team members into the family, including 35 who got their very first jobs through the company’s Apprentice Program; donated more than $100,000 to the community through various fundraising endeavors; been recognized by the Sarasota Chamber for “Products and Services Business of the Year” (2019); and connected thousands of aspiring or hobbyist musicians of all ages through a shared passion for music and collaboration.

The Music Compound, located at 775 Bell Road in Sarasota, provides an environment to inspire, collaborate and educate children and adults in pursuit of their love of music. Private and group lessons are available on a wide variety of instruments as well as programs such as Kidz Rock (ages 4-7), Junior Rockers (ages 8-11), ukulele and guitar groups (ages 8-12), the Musical Theatre Program (ages 7-14), Songwriting Series (ages 15+), Adult Jam Sessions, the Gulf Coast New Horizons Music program for adults ages 50+, and more. 

Visit musiccompound.com for more information.

About Music Compound

The Music Compound (775 Bell Road, Sarasota) provides an environment to inspire, collaborate and educate children and adults in pursuit of their love of music.  The goal is to transform dreams into reality by providing a contemporary and influential environment for musicians of all ages. For more information, visit musiccompound.com.