Lauren Grile

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about Lauren

Lauren Grile is a lifelong singer, songwriter, poet, and artist from Indianapolis IN. With over 150 original compositions to her name, Lauren integrates elements of jazz-infused pop, experimental indie rock, and alternative R&B / folk into concoctions that are as unique as she is.

Growing up in Florida, Lauren spent many a humid day listening to Abbey Road in her garage, singing along to Corrine Bailey Rae in her mom’s suburban, and attending an arts-focused elementary school, where she was a member of the Lake Sumter Honor Choir and participated in several theater productions and talent shows. However, Lauren quickly realized her passion extended beyond performing others’ works. By the time her family returned to Indiana at age 11, Lauren had already begun making music that allowed her to express herself without limits. Two years later, she had completed her first bona fide original, igniting a creative fire that has yet to dim.

In high school, songwriting all but consumed her life. When she wasn’t playing piano for her school’s jazz band or performing the occasional solo gig, she could be found sitting at a piano wholly entranced by some chord progression or puzzled on her mom’s back porch, guitar in hand. Though she once dreamed of becoming fluent in Spanish and working for the UN, a transformative experience during her sophomore year—hearing a band bring one of her originals to life—shifted her dreams entirely toward a career in music. This, alongside a decisive “without a doubt” from her Magic 8 Ball, led her to the Music Media Production program at Ball State University, where she honed her craft under the guidance of industry luminaries like TV personality David Letterman, Grammy-winning producer Chuck Ainlay, and platinum artist Tiara Thomas. With the space, equipment, and creative freedom to make whatever music her heart desired, Lauren got straight to work, releasing two original albums, “Lost & Found & Free” and “MORE TIME”, under the stage name Saint Lavender.

During her university years, Lauren also discovered a passion for teaching, beginning as a band coach and songwriting instructor at Indiana State University’s annual music camp. After earning dual degrees in Audio Engineering and English in 2023, she spent a year falling in love with private instruction at the vocational school Bach to Rock. This inspired her to continue teaching in Music City, as she relocated once more to “be where the action is”. Lauren believes deeply in the power of music as a medium for self-expression and connection. Her greatest satisfaction comes from seeing her students embrace their creativity and take pride in who they are through the music they create— just as she continues to do!

Teaching Philosophy

Music is so broad that it bridges various subjects, from art and history to math and science— and I like to give students the opportunity to explore these connections based on their personal interests. While I enjoy helping students avoid mistakes I made starting out , I also recognize that it’s important to embrace mistakes and confusion as vital parts of the learning journey. Encouraging students to apply what they’ve learned through creative experimentation is also a big part of what I do, because it helps students discover their own unique musical voices!

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“Seeing two of the bands I coach win their divisions in Battle of the Bands was an amazing achievement as an educator!!”

What type of student will excel the most under your mentorship?
“In my opinion, the best student is a curious one! If you are the type who likes to get to the bottom of things and understand the “why” behind the “how”, we’ll get along great. I also enjoy working with students who aren’t afraid to have some fun and get a little goofy— laughing leads to learning!”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor means remembering that the only thing separating me from my students is time. Both of us are on the same journey trying to understand this wacky experience we call music, and my job is honestly more like a tour guide’s: “I’ve been down this road before; I have an idea of how this thing behaves— hey, what’s that over there? Let’s go discover it together!””

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“Growing up, John Mayer taught me how chord progressions can show how you feel, Corinne Bailey Rae taught me to sing from the heart, the Jacksons reminded me to loosen up and have fun, The Beatles encouraged me to not be afraid of “getting weird”, and Stevie Wonder embodied all of these things at once— but most importantly, any song with a good groove taught me that life is filled with joy!”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“I’m still pretty new to the area, but as a coffee snob, The Frothy Monkey has got to be high on my list!”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“In first grade, I remember telling people that I wanted to be a shoemaker— but not because I actually wanted to make shoes;I just said that to stand out amongst all of the doctors and marine biologists.”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“I would meet John Mayer and ask him what goes into writing a good bridge!”

Salty Treat: Salt & Vinegar chips

Sweet Treat: Golden Oreos

Fast Food Restaurant: Culver’s

Coffee Drink: Dirty Chai

Movie/Show: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Place to Shop: Barnes & Noble

Candle: Any of the fall scents

Musician/Band: John Mayer

Travel Destination: Yalaha, FL (where I grew up!)

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator