We recently had the chance to connect with Deanna Lariz and have shared our conversation below.
Deanna, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Recently, I had to go to the cancer center to get an iron infusion. Seeing the patients suffer there was difficult. There was a piano in the Lobby. I decided to play it for the patients. Seeing the joy and peace on their face brought me such joy. I can not take their illness away, but I can give them a momentary reprieve with my piano playing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Deanna. I am an international vocal/piano coach, songwriting teacher, and performance coach. I also work as an artist, songwriter, and worship leader.
I have over 30 years experience in the Music industry. I began playing piano at age 4 and singing at age 13.
I founded NotJustPiano Music Studio in 2015. After leaving an abusive 18 year marriage. I was left with no money and 2 children to raise. I started this company because music saved my life and music was all that I knew. I felt my calling in life was to make kids lives better by teaching them how to use music to connect to not only their emotions, but to God.
Starting this company birthed purpose in my life again.
NotJustPiano has serviced not only national students but international students as well.
My Studio is a music training program.
My studio’s name reflects its mission: To teach music, not only through technical skills (music theory and technique) but also by connecting students to their faith and emotions.
NotJustPiano is a training program that develops individuals (ages 5 and up) in the area of voice and piano.
The studio’s philosophy, based on its name, is that music is meant to connect us to our emotions and God, going beyond just the technical aspects. Its goal is to “Train, Equip and Develop musicians for the call and purpose that has been placed on their lives. I’ve experienced much success with my studio. I’ve trained hundreds of students throughout the years.
I was awarded as one of the most influential 40 under 40 individuals in my home town in Ellis County.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I use to believe as a child that I had little too offer anyone. I was abused and misused by those close to me. I realized the power of what was within me, music. Music is what has always come naturally to me. Music is my gift to the world. My form of music is not to sound or look like others, it’s unique. Find what comes natural to you and find a way to offer it to someone else. No matter how little it is. I have found that little things can make the greatest impact.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me that giving up is an option, but not the best option. Many times health issues had the potential to discourage and stop me. When I had a surgery to correct a kidney issue. I woke up and couldn’t move my right leg. I had to learn to walk again. Giving up is not an option because victory is not on that side. Im going to win, even if I’m limping. Deciding to choose ressilence in spite of ones feelings is the key to success. You can see obstacles as dead-ends in life or stepping stones in life.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the most common and damaging myths the music industry perpetuates is the idea that “Great music will naturally find its audience” or that “Talent is all you need.”
This lie often leads to several misconceptions:
1. The “Music is the Only Thing That Matters” Myth
The Lie: If your music is good enough, success will just happen.
The Reality: Talent is only the bare minimum. Success in the modern industry is equally dependent on entrepreneurship, marketing, networking, branding, and a strong business strategy. Many talented artists remain unknown because they lack the business acumen or the financial backing to promote their work effectively.
2. The “Overnight Success” Myth
The Lie: Artists suddenly become stars after a single viral moment or a lucky discovery.
The Reality: Almost every “overnight success” has spent years—often a decade or more—writing, performing, building a following, and constantly facing setbacks. The “overnight” moment is usually the culmination of relentless, strategic hard work.
3. The “Record Deals Guarantee Success” Myth
The Lie: Getting signed to a major label means you have made it and can stop worrying about business.
The Reality: The vast majority of artists who sign to a major label do not become superstars. Labels today prefer artists who already have a strong following and revenue streams. A deal often involves giving up significant ownership (masters) and creative control, and if an artist doesn’t generate immediate returns, the label may quickly stop supporting them.
In short, the biggest deception is the portrayal of the music industry as a meritocracy driven purely by art, when in fact, it is a highly competitive business driven by data, marketing, and investment.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
That’s a beautiful and deeply personal question. The truth is, I feel most at peace when I am engaging in activities, environments, or mindsets that align with my unique needs and values.
I have found myself most at peace in my 40’s. I am at peace because I now know my authentic self. I have an awareness that I am not in competition with anyone else? I am now ok and have accepted my imperfections. I am done with chasing a platform or opportunities. I have found peace in the simplness of just being. I look for little things in my day to be grateful for. What brings me peace is knowing that God is always in control. He knows the chapters in my life. I Just need to turn the page each day and walk life with Him.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.notjustpiano.com.
- Instagram: @notjustpiano
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ERNZ3As7o/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@notjustpianostudio?feature=shared
- Soundcloud: https://m.soundcloud.com/deanna-lariz
