Make the music you've always wanted
Lessons and recording from industry pros
Whether you're picking up a new instrument or recording a professional record, we have the experience to help you find your sound and get it radio-ready.
Now booking music lessons and historical presentations
Experience the Heart of American Music
Bringing the spirit of the Delta to Sarasota, Karlus Trapp is now accepting new students and scheduling performances for 'The Roots of Black Music in America.' Whether you're looking for in-person or virtual sessions, spots are filling up quickly, so be sure to reach out soon to secure your date.
Our Services
Explore the various ways we can help you grow your unique musical passion
25 Years of Performance, Education, and Heritage
The Story Behind the Music
From the stages of New York City to the coast of Southwest Florida, Karlus Trapp has spent over 25 years living and breathing music. He isn't just a performer or a teacher; he is a storyteller who believes every note requires a bit of soul and a deep respect for where it came from. Whether he is leading a production or teaching a private lesson, Karlus brings a lifetime of experience and a genuine passion for his craft.
Helping the Next Generation Find Their Sound
Decades of Teaching
Karlus has spent more than 25 years teaching guitar, piano, and ukulele to students of all skill levels. He has mentored some of the best in the business, but he is just as happy helping a child pick up their first instrument or an adult rediscovering a long-lost hobby. His patient, relaxed style ensures that every lesson is something to look forward to.
A Deep Dive into Our Shared Roots
Sharing Musical History
Through his acclaimed presentation, 'Roots of Black Music in America,' Karlus explores the foundations of modern sound. He takes audiences through the history of spirituals, Ragtime, Jazz, and Calypso, blending storytelling with live performance. This program has reached nearly 60 libraries across the country, making history feel alive and personal through song.
Professional Production for Every Project
Studio and Screen Success
As a versatile producer and multi-instrumentalist, Karlus knows what it takes to deliver professional results. His work has been featured on ABC’s 'General Hospital' and in international commercials. From arranging and engineering independent EPs to leading therapeutic songwriting residencies, he handles every project with a high level of technical skill and creative care.
Inspired by Rhythm and Connection
A Global Perspective
Karlus draws heavy influence from the rhythms of New Orleans and the Caribbean, giving his music a unique, soulful energy. He has collaborated with artists from around the world and produced projects in multiple dialects. This diverse background allows him to connect with people from all walks of life, proving that music really is a language everyone can understand.
What Our Customers Say
Bringing music to life through performance, education, and production
Music, History, and the Heart of the Song
I do more than just perform music; I live it. My work is about honoring the deep history of American sound while helping the next generation find their rhythm. From the vibrant beats of New Orleans and the Caribbean to the technical details of studio production, I bring a lifetime of experience and a genuine respect for musical heritage to every project.
Personalized Music Lessons
Find your sound in a relaxed and fun environment
Learning an instrument should be about finding your own voice, not just memorizing notes. With over 25 years of teaching experience, I use a patient and fun approach that has helped develop many talented musicians and teachers. I work with everyone from kids picking up a guitar for the first time to adults looking to get back into piano, ukulele, or voice. I offer in-person lessons in Sarasota and virtual sessions for students anywhere else.
The Roots of Black Music
An interactive journey through musical history
I created this show in 2004 to explore the foundations of American popular music. It is a live experience that takes audiences through the history of Negro spirituals, Ragtime, Jazz, and Calypso. Having performed at nearly 60 libraries and on stages across the country, this program is both a history lesson and a celebration of the legendary artists who shaped everything we listen to today.
Professional Studio Production
Turning your musical ideas into polished tracks
Getting a song ready for the radio takes a mix of technical skill and artistic intuition. As a multi-instrumentalist and producer, I provide full support for artists, including songwriting, arrangement, and session work on guitar, bass, and keyboards. Whether you want a reggae vibe, a jazzy feel, or an African-influenced soundscape, my goal is to capture your unique vision with professional craftsmanship.
Community Songwriting Residencies
Using music as a tool for expression and healing
Music is one of the best ways to process complex emotions. I lead specialized songwriting residencies in schools and community centers to give students a creative outlet for their feelings. These programs were originally designed to help children cope with major community tragedies, and they continue to help people turn difficult emotions into original songs of hope and resilience.
Our Locations
Sarasota
Currently Closed
Mon-Tue:
Closed
Wed-Sat:
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sun:
Closed