We had the good fortune of connecting with Shareef Clayton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shareef, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’m the founder of Harlem Music Studios in New York.

I wanted to open a studio in the uptown area because there are a lot of musicians/artist that live uptown but there is nowhere to rehearse. In addition I wanted to create an affordable space for music teachers and professional musicians to teach and practice on a regular basis.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a trumpeter I got to this point by years of practicing a lot, performing, and networking.

As a studio owner there is a lot to learn but I’m enjoying this process. Since I am a musician I already understand what the client wants.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Dizzy’s Club
Room 623
Cafe Wha
Smalls Jazz Club

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Anthony, Valerie, Willie, Donna, & Ishaam Clayton

Michael Leflore, Jim Gasior, Rachel & Ryan Berg, Robert Stringer, Curtis Nowosad, Jason Rosen, Melton Mustafa

Website: www.harlemmusicstudios.com

Instagram: instagram.com/harlemmusicstudiosnyc

Twitter: twitter.com/harlemstudios

Facebook: facebook.com/harlemmusicstudios

Image Credits
The photo of me is by Jim Holzer

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.