Established in 2011 by Bryce and Lisa Niemiller, Elevate Rock School is a story of success. What started as a simple idea, quickly became an educational haven where community thrives and young musicians of all skillsets collaborate.
Read on to see how the Niemillers made their business dreams a reality!
Rockin' Since Day 1
From a young age, music filled the scene. Bryce Niemiller grew up with a passion for music and joined his first band at 14.
Before the Beat Dropped
After graduating college with a teaching degree, Bryce taught 40 students out of his basement. Realizing he was teaching some of the same "boring" lessons he was taught growing up, he knew a change needed to be made.
Amping Things Up!
Bryce began to add more dimension to these lessons with the support of his wife, Lisa. Starting with just a few students, Bryce encouraged collaboration and the ability for students to learn the songs they loved.
"It's more than just music lessons."
-Lisa Niemiller
Elevate Rock School Sets the Stage
In 2011, Elevate Rock School was established in Fargo, ND, with the aim of reigniting passion within music education. Through collaborative lessons and on-stage performances, students were provided with the opportunity to play the music they loved.
"Empowering the kids... That's my favorite part. I love seeing their successes."
-Lisa Niemiller
The Loan That Struck a Different Chord
With the growing success of this new music school, Bryce and Lisa needed more space. When in conversations with their local bank, the Niemillers were introduced to the SBA 504 loan program through Dakota Business Lending.
"The SBA 504 is the perfect loan program for small businesses because it requires less money down and is guaranteed.”
-Lisa Niemiller
Expansion Hits a High Note
In 2021, the Niemillers implemented the SBA 504 loan program in partnership with Gate City Bank, allowing Elevate Rock School to expand to over double the size of their previous location.
"The SBA 504 program gives a small business like us an opportunity to actually take on an expansion project like this."
-Lisa Niemiller
Banding Together
Following their expansion, Elevate Rock School continued to foster a community
oriented and welcoming environment. Through scholarships and training at the North Dakota Autism
Center, they strive to welcome all students, never saying no to their community.
"We are always really humbled by our community and our team."
-Lisa Niemiller
Success Speaks Volumes
Today, Elevate Rock School’s music lessons are a gateway to building confidence and having fun! With over 350 students and 15 teachers, Elevate Rock School provides lessons for ages 3-18 on piano, guitar, drums, bass, and voice.
For more information about Elevate Rock School or to sign up for lessons, visit their website.
This article was written by Dakota Business Lending with permission from Elevate Rock School and is not to be edited or redistributed without permission.