Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Don Pedi, Owner of Don Pedi music & art™, located in Marshall, NC, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Don Pedi music & art provides live performances, instruction, and lectures on the history of the mountain dulcimer and traditional Appalachian Mountain Music. We also offer a line of recordings, books, and art prints, as well as illustration and graphic art. Customers range from those interested in Appalachian culture to students of the dulcimer and audience members.

Tell us about yourself

After my first encounter with a mountain dulcimer in 1968, playing music became such an integral part of who I am; that performing and teaching as a livelihood was a natural progression. Producing commercial recordings, books, and art prints serves to increase revenues associated with the performance aspect of the business.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Maintaining a small farm in the mountains while living, learning, and sharing traditional music and folkways with friends and neighbors. Of course, being recognized and honored for my work at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, as well as most major traditional festivals, and representing Appalachian music in Hollywood films could be seen as accomplishments.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Being responsible for success and failure.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Have realistic goals.
  2. Be true to yourself.
  3. Work smart.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://www.donpedi.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.pedi.5


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