Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney Verge.
Sydney, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Nashville. My parents were in their mid-30s when I was born, and as their first and only child, they poured everything they could into me. I could read music before I could write well. They enrolled me in piano lessons in kindergarten, recognizing my musical gifts early and wanting to make sure I developed them.
My early childhood was full of beautiful memories. Growing up in church, spending time with family, and forming friendships I still value today. When I was nine, my parents divorced. Even though they were no longer together, their support for me never changed. I feel incredibly blessed to have such amazing parents.
In sixth grade, my mom enrolled me in band. As a former flautist herself, she made sure I picked up the flute, which turned out to be one of the best decisions she ever made for me. I immediately fell in love with playing in a concert band setting and became inseparable from my flute. Throughout my teenage years, I played in the high school marching and symphonic bands, always striving to be first chair.
After graduating from Martin Luther King Academic Magnet High School, I received a band scholarship to Tennessee State University to play flute and piccolo. TSU gave me a musical experience unlike any other. Majoring in music, I immersed myself in theory, history, and collegiate-level flute lessons that opened my eyes to a world I had never seen before.
While I was passionate about music, I also had a strong interest in the business side of the industry. Knowing I didn’t want to be a full-time performer, I made sure to study topics like music business, law, and arts entrepreneurship. In 2022, as I was finishing my bachelor’s degree in Music, I was offered a fellowship with the White House Initiative on HBCUs, which supported me through graduate school.
To align with my career goals, I pursued a Master’s in Business Administration. I received another scholarship to TSU and served as a Graduate Assistant for the Aristocrat of Bands. Balancing these roles prepared me more than I realized for the life I lead today. Shortly after earning my MBA in December 2023, I received an offer to begin working with The Recording Academy in 2024
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I feel fortunate, because I feel like God has guided me through everything. Even with that, there is no life without some aspect of adversity. Growing up middle class has its own set of hurdles, regardless, my parents sacrificed tremendously so I was never without. I had everything I needed, and a lot of what I wanted too haha! Being a Black woman in the South comes with its own unique set of experiences. Thankfully, I’ve encountered more acceptance than resistance along the way. The community around me has played a major role in shaping who I am and how confident I feel. My parents, family, and friends have offered unwavering support throughout my life, and because of them, I can hardly recall a time when I felt alone or unsupported.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve loved all types of music for as long as I can remember, so much so that picking a favorite genre has always felt impossible. As the Operations Coordinator for the Recording Academy Nashville Chapter, I’m incredibly grateful to channel that lifelong passion into my work. The Academy celebrates music across all genres, and being part of that mission in my hometown makes the experience deeply personal and truly special. Outside of my career, I continue my musicianship through the Nashville African American Wind Symphony (NAAWS), where I currently serve as the principal flautist and Director of Communications. NAAWS is a dynamic ensemble committed to celebrating and advancing the legacy of Black classical musicians by providing performance opportunities, fostering community engagement, and inspiring the next generation through education and cultural representation.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve learned to embrace the opportunities that come my way, and in doing so, I’ve found success. Simply being involved in certain programs has led me to unexpected mentors and valuable connections. When you take pride in the quality of your work, it naturally reflects your work ethic, even to those you may not realize are paying attention.
As someone who tends to think more than speak, networking can feel intimidating. I’m definitely not the most talkative person, but I do appreciate a meaningful conversation. With each new networking opportunity, I remind myself that I’ve never once regretted showing up. It truly does get easier with experience.
Contact Info:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneyverge
