Ottley Music School, Inc.

Today we pause to celebrate a woman whose life is literally woven into the soundtrack of so many of ours — our founder, Ms. Ottley.

Happy Birthday to a woman whose gift is not just music, but purpose. From the very first note she ever played or taught, she planted seeds that continue to grow in ways even she may not fully see. Her hands have guided more than keys, rhythms, and melodies — they have guided people. She has shaped confidence where there was doubt, discipline where there was uncertainty, and passion where there was once fear.

Ms. Ottley doesn’t simply teach music — she teaches how to listen, how to feel, how to trust yourself, and how to honor the story behind every sound. Through her patience, wisdom, and unwavering belief in excellence, she has poured into generations of musicians, leaders, and dreamers. Many of us stand where we are today because she saw something in us before we saw it in ourselves.

Her music has healed, her instruction has sharpened, and her presence has inspired. She leads with grace, strength, and authenticity, reminding us that music is not just something we perform — it is something we live. The lessons she’s given extend far beyond rehearsal rooms and performances; they echo in our character, our work ethic, and our faith in what’s possible.

Today, we celebrate YOU, Ms. Ottley — your heart, your vision, your legacy, and your unwavering commitment to lifting others through music. Thank you for every sacrifice, every late night, every correction given in love, and every moment you chose to invest in us.

May this birthday return to you even a fraction of the joy, love, and inspiration you’ve given so freely. You are truly one of a kind, deeply appreciated, and endlessly admired.

Happy Birthday, Ms. Ottley, and may your next year be filled with new melodies, continued impact, and abundant blessings 🎶✨







If you want the ton

🎉🎶 Happy 53rd Anniversary, Ottley Music School! 🎶🎉

For 53 years, Ottley Music School has stood as a beacon of excellence, culture, and community—proving again and again that music education changes lives. Founded in 1973 by the visionary music educator, pianist, organist, conductor and cultural leader Nevilla E. Ottley-Adjahoe, the school began with a bold and loving mission: to provide high-quality, accessible music education while nurturing the whole person through discipline, creativity, and self-expression.

From our earliest days to now, Ottley Music School has welcomed students of every age—from our joyful Little Mozarts discovering sound for the first time, to teens sharpening their artistry, to adults and seniors returning to music as a lifelong companion. Music truly has no age limit, and OMS has always honored that truth.

Over the decades, our students have gone on to become lawyers, doctors, professors, psychologists, educators, artists, and leaders across countless fields—all grounded by the focus, confidence, and critical thinking that come from studying music at a young age. The lessons learned here extend far beyond the staff and the stage.

OMS also proudly uplifts the legacy and brilliance of Black composers, ensuring students learn a more complete and truthful musical history—one where excellence, innovation, and cultural pride are celebrated and centered. Representation matters, and so does honoring the shoulders we stand on.

🎵 Music builds minds.
🎵 Music strengthens communities.
🎵 Music opens doors—for everyone.

✨ As we celebrate 53 years of music education excellence, we invite you to celebrate with us.
💛 If you would like to donate in honor of our anniversary, please click the link in our bio. Your support helps us continue this legacy for generations to come.

Here’s to 53 years of harmony, purpose, and joy—and to many more still to come. 🎹🎻🎤

Shop Where the Music Lives. At the Ottley Music School Book Store, we’ve got every book you need—from piano to harmonica and everything in between. No waiting. No online ordering. Just walk in and play. ✨
We proudly carry music by Black composers, making us one of the only music stores where you can discover, purchase, and leave inspired the same day. Support culture. Support community. Support your music. 🎼
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