Larry and Janna Wagner founded Wagner’s School of Music in 1976 after graduating from San Diego State University with degrees in Music. Janna earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Flute Performance, while Larry majored in Liberal Arts with distinction in Music, focusing on Music Education, Piano, and Voice. The comprehensive musicianship training they received at SDSU became the foundation for the unique approach now taught to students of all ages at Wagner’s.

During their early years, Larry and Janna performed throughout San Diego as a piano-flute duo, including venues like the Crown Room at the Hotel Del Coronado and as regulars at the Prado in Balboa Park. Larry also played keyboard and sang in a Top 40s band called Long Shot, performing most weekends.

In the beginning, Janna managed the business side of the school, which was originally housed in a music store, while Larry taught group piano classes alongside two other teachers using popular curriculum. From day one, parent involvement was a key part of their success and strong student retention.

In 1981, Janna gave birth to quadruplets, prompting Larry to take on more of the administrative duties while continuing to teach over 100 students per week. During that time, he also began developing the curriculum that has now been used at Wagner’s for over 45 years—most notably the inclusion of parent pages, a distinctive element of Wagner’s group piano method.

When their children entered school, Janna returned as a consultant for Wagner’s while also earning credentials in Special Education and Math. She spent 20 years teaching, including Special Education at Hillsdale Middle School in Rancho San Diego, and later Algebra and Calculus at Christian High School in El Cajon and Monte Vista High School in Spring Valley. She retired from education in 2016.

Though now retired from Wagner’s, Larry and Janna remain active. The school continues to serve families under the leadership of new owners, Brett and Sarah. Janna published her first book, Quadruplets: A Love Story, in 2021 (available on Amazon), and the couple now enjoys spending time with their five granddaughters and one grandson, who keep them on their toes!

They also co-host a podcast called Alzheimer’s Thriver™: Words From the Horse’s Mouth, aimed at encouraging families affected by Alzheimer’s. Janna has been living with the disease for over 10 years and continues to thrive in many areas of her life through lifestyle changes and spiritual practices.

Additionally, Larry and Janna perform in the We See You San Diego house band, playing at weekly dinners for individuals experiencing homelessness. We See You offers medical detox, rehab, and sober living for those seeking to rebuild their lives.
https://www.weseeyousandiego.com