From a lifelong passion for music to a thriving music education studio, Travis Rankin's story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a deep commitment to sharing his love of the arts. As an alumnus of RIT's School of Individualized Study (SOIS), Rankin has seamlessly blended his musical talents with his entrepreneurial spirit, creating a vibrant community hub that is inspiring the next generation of musicians.

Unlocking the Power of Music: A Lifelong Pursuit

Nurturing a Musical Calling

Rankin's journey into the world of music began at a young age, as he fondly recalls singing in his elementary school chorus and picking up the trombone in the concert band. As he grew older, his musical interests expanded, leading him to join the jazz band, the marching band, and eventually, local rock bands that performed at various venues around town, including a memorable gig opening for Kid Rock at the Water Street Music Hall.

Embracing the Touring Life

Rankin's passion for music took him on a journey across the United States and parts of Canada, where he toured with bands, honing his skills not only as a musician but also in the business aspects of the industry, such as marketing and booking. However, when the touring lifestyle came to an end, Rankin found himself at a crossroads, faced with the decision of finding a new career path.

Merging Passions: Music and Teaching

Rankin's desire to be a musician was matched by an equally strong calling to become a teacher. He enrolled in community college, initially studying communication and media arts before transitioning to adolescent education. During this time, he had the opportunity to work with RIT students on their senior film projects, where he discovered his talent for writing music for film, video, and animation.

Shaping a Unique Educational Journey

Encouraged by his wife, Stephanie, who had earned a master's degree from RIT, Rankin decided to transfer to the university and enroll in the School of Individualized Study (SOIS). There, he was able to mold his course of study to focus on visual culture, music technology, and performance, ultimately graduating in December 2022.

Bringing Music to Life: The Rochester Music Lab

Establishing a Creative Hub

Two years ago, Rankin took a bold step and opened the Rochester Music Lab, a 2,500-square-foot studio located on the third floor of the Piano Works building in East Rochester. This vibrant space is a testament to Rankin's vision, housing an array of musical instruments, from traditional drums and guitars to unique instruments like steel drums, ukuleles, and a balafon. The studio also boasts a state-of-the-art recording facility capable of capturing 32 tracks simultaneously.

Fostering a Diverse Community

The Rochester Music Lab has become a hub for music enthusiasts of all ages, from as young as 3 to as experienced as 70. Rankin and his team of RIT alumni teachers offer a wide range of programs, including music performance, composition, and audio engineering. They also bring their expertise to afterschool enrichment programs and nursing homes, ensuring that the power of music reaches diverse communities.

Empowering Exploration and Expression

At the heart of the Rochester Music Lab is a commitment to allowing students to freely explore their musical interests and find their unique voices. Rankin encourages his students to switch between the various offerings, enabling them to discover their true passions and unlock their creative potential.

Fostering Connections and Collaborations

Rankin's connection to RIT extends beyond his own educational journey. He recently invited a group of SOIS students, known as the SOIS Music Connection, to visit the Rochester Music Lab. This initiative aims to create a space where SOIS students with a shared interest in music can learn, explore, and bond with one another. Rankin's openness to collaborating with the RIT community showcases his dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians and creative professionals.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Rankin's own experiences and the guidance he received from his RIT professors have been instrumental in shaping his approach to teaching and entrepreneurship. He credits his professors for instilling in him a love for teaching, a commitment to giving his all to his work and others, and the importance of persistence and dedication. Rankin's willingness to share his knowledge and mentor the SOIS students who visited the Rochester Music Lab is a testament to his desire to pay it forward and inspire the next generation of music enthusiasts.