Today we’d like to introduce you to Margie Looney.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
One day after school, my junior high orchestra director, Mrs. Todd, suggested I start teaching others. With that simple idea, I opened my strings studio at age 15 and have taught over 2,000 students since then. My passion is to teach students lifelong instrumental skills with beautiful technique, while building their confidence through learning in a fun and positive environment.
My life’s journey has taken me to three states, teaching violin, viola, cello, and double bass in a variety of formats to students ages 5–55. I have been fortunate to receive many Teacher of the Year awards at the state and national levels, including Arizona Rural Teacher of the Year and National Rural Teacher of the Year Runner-Up. I am a licensed K–12 music educator in Texas and Utah and hold a Music Education degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.
I treasure performing weekly as a violist in the Orchestra at Temple Square and have loved all of the experiences this opportunity has brought, including accompanying my favorite singer, Sissel, in front of crowds of 10,000+ fans. I have also had the incredible experience of teaching orchestra to inmates at the Utah State Prison. Out of all my musical experiences, this one has been the most memorable!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I think that’s what has shaped me the most. My passion for nurturing and inspiring students has always been my compass, helping me find direction even when things were difficult. Every new teaching environment has stretched me in different ways…new schools, new communities, new challenges…all pushing me to build the best program I could.
During my 16 years in public and charter schools, I’ve learned that teaching isn’t just about music; it’s also about balancing expectations from principals, parents, and the community while holding myself to my own very high standards. There were seasons when it felt like a juggling act, but those moments taught me resilience and creativity. Through every challenge, I’ve tried to take an active learning approach…to reflect, grow, and refine my craft…so that each year, I become a stronger teacher for my students.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
When I first started MLStrings, my goal was simple: to create the kind of strings program I wish I’d had as a young musician…one that inspires, challenges, and feels like home all at once. Today, that little dream has grown into the most comprehensive and dynamic violin, viola, and cello program in Eagle Mountain. I now teach 82 students each week, and every one of them has a special place in my heart.
The feedback I hear most often from parents makes me smile every time:
“This is the one activity my child always wants to go to – I never have to force them!”
“I can’t believe how quickly my child is progressing.”
Those words mean everything to me, because they capture exactly what I strive for…a place where students love coming to lessons, feel proud of what they’re learning, and experience real progress. At MLStrings, the atmosphere is joyful and energetic, but also focused and purposeful. I work hard to make every lesson personalized, so each student can learn at their own pace while sounding their best.
What sets MLStrings apart is the blend of my heart and my journey behind it. Over my 26 years of experience, I’ve taught strings in nearly every setting imaginable: public schools, charter schools, private lessons, group classes, you name it…and each one has shaped the way I teach today. I’ve poured all those lessons into building a program that feels innovative yet deeply personal, structured yet full of joy. Watching my students grow – musically and personally – is truly the best part of what I do.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We love partnering with local businesses and organizations who share our passion for music and community! MLStrings thrives when families, students, and the wider community come together to celebrate the arts.
Here are some awesome ways to collaborate:
Practice Challenge Incentives: Kids love earning small rewards for consistent practice! Businesses can donate gift cards, treats, or small prizes to help motivate our young musicians. MLStrings has many practice challenges throughout the year.
Group Showcase Sponsors: Our annual January Showcase brings together over 300 students, families, and guests. We’re currently seeking sponsors to help us secure the high school or junior high auditorium (we’ve officially outgrown every other venue!). Sponsors receive recognition in programs, social media, and onstage.
Photography Collaboration – We’re currently looking for a photographer to partner with us on a special campaign celebrating students who balance both music and athletics. We want to capture portraits of students with their instruments and in their sports gear to highlight that they can do both – and do both well!
Studio Wish List Donations: Items like music stands, tuners, or sound equipment help us keep our space thriving and well-equipped for students.
We believe that music strengthens communities, and we’re always open to creative ideas for partnership. Whether it’s sponsoring an event, hosting a concert, or helping a student achieve their dream, your support makes a lasting impact and we are thankful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mlstrings.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlstrings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLStrings/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/MLStrings/
