Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Zoei Tippy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Zoei, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve always known that I wanted to build my life around music. Even though singing didn’t come as naturally to me at first, I was determined to improve because I love(d) it so deeply. From an early age, I was drawn to the way music made me feel — how it could express emotions and connect people and build a community. That connection inspired me to keep pushing myself, taking lessons, practicing, and learning everything I could to grow as a singer and musician.

Over time, that hard work helped me realize that music wasn’t just a passion — it was my purpose. Pursuing a creative path became less about talent and more about persistence, growth, and the desire to share what music means to me with others.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a multi-instrumentalist who graduated from both Coastal Alabama Community College, with my associate’s degree in Music, and the University of Southern Mississippi, with a bachelor’s degree in choral music education. I have been singing and expanding my musical ability consistently since my middle school years; including participation in choirs as well as competing in solo competitions. When I’m not gigging around town or teaching on my main instrument (voice), I continue to practice and perform on my secondary instruments: electric bass and ukulele. I’ve always loved the community that music fosters around it, and I am always seeking that in some way, especially with my love for teaching.

That’s what led me to Groove House — a creative space built around the idea that music should be accessible, inspiring, and fun for everyone. I am always excited to expand on my musical knowledge and experience here at Groove House. I am a big believer that my students will not only learn from me, but I will learn from them as well.
At Groove House, we offer private lessons in voice, piano, guitar, drums, and more, for students of all ages and skill levels. We believe in tailoring each lesson to the student, helping them reach their goals while developing confidence, creativity, and a lasting love for music.

What sets us apart is the sense of community we’ve built. We’re not just a place to take lessons — we’re a place where students can perform, collaborate, and grow as artists. From showcases and recitals to group performances and events around the community, Groove House gives students real opportunities to share their progress and celebrate their passion for music.

I’m most proud of the impact we’ve had on our students — watching them gain confidence, achieve milestones, and truly enjoy learning is what makes this work so meaningful. The main thing I want people to know about Groove House is that we’re here to meet you where you are, nurture your talent, and help you find joy and purpose through music.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to promote the love of music and learning of music to as many people as possible. It truly is a unique experience to singing and perform with a group of people, or finally nail a riff that you’ve been working on for a month or two.

The pride that you can see on our students faces when they achieve milestones is priceless and something that all of us really care about. It’s not just about learning scales and triads, it’s so much more. Whether it takes a few weeks or a few months, we are there to encourage and help keep the student consistent. The musical journey isn’t linear, it is our own personal drive that keeps us going. It is so important to be reminded of that. Practice makes progress!

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Something that non-creatives often struggle to understand about the creative journey is that it’s rarely a straight line. Growth in the arts isn’t measured by the same milestones for everyone or showing quick results — it’s a process that takes time, vulnerability, and persistence. Progress can feel slow, and much of the work happens behind the scenes through trial and error, self-doubt, and constant refinement.

For most of us, creativity isn’t about talent — it’s about discipline, resilience, and the courage to keep showing up even when inspiration isn’t there. The creative path requires a deep emotional investment, and success often comes from years of quiet effort that no one else sees.

It’s also deeply personal. Our work often reflects who we are, so when we put our art out into the world, it’s not just a product — it’s a piece of ourselves. That vulnerability can be difficult for non-creatives to fully grasp, but it’s also what makes creative work so meaningful and powerful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://groovehousemusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/groovehousemusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groovehousehattiesburg/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@groovehouse4292/videos

Image Credits

Instagram: @lazslense (Laz Quave)