School of Rock Murfreesboro

Bart and Christy Stewart took a leap of faith that would change not only their careers, but their entire lives, when they relocated from Arizona to Tennessee to open School of Rock Murfreesboro, which officially opened its doors on May 1, 2025. Referred to the Tennessee Small Business Development Center at MTSU through their lender, Brad, the Stewarts had quickly discovered that launching a business in a state they had never visited would require guidance, local insight, and a strong support system. They were starting from a blank slate. 

One of their greatest challenges was beginning the journey while still living in Arizona. They did not know the Murfreesboro market, had no local connections, and had little understanding of where to begin with research, planning, or community engagement, which made the process feel uncertain and, at times, overwhelming. They did not know anyone here. 

Once they arrived and began working closely with the TSBDC while participating in local events, they quickly realized how community-oriented Murfreesboro truly is, and how valuable the TSBDC’s direction would be in accelerating their progress. The Stewarts credit the TSBDC with helping them find clarity and structure far more quickly than they could have on their own, providing practical planning tools, recommendations, and steady guidance that shaped every aspect of their launch. Having opened several businesses previously in Arizona without this level of support, they described the TSBDC as a breath of fresh air. 

Today, School of Rock Murfreesboro is not only open, but actively contributing to the community through performance and partnership. The House Band will perform at the Special Kids 15th Annual Race on March 14, the adult students and staff band will take the stage at Heroes Den that same evening, and youth performance programs will host a Mid-Season Showcase at Hop Springs on March 15, with both adult and youth performances benefiting Special Kids. 

Reflecting on their experience, the Stewarts shared, “The TSBDC was nothing short of incredible to work with. They had so many great ideas and recommendations as well as planning tools and assistance we are forever grateful for.”