Community Proud, Celebrating Those That Live and Work Among Us!

GMCC is proud to recognize Jerrica Watrous in our 'Community Proud' series, sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union.

What began as a simple hobby for Jerrica Watrous has transformed into a cornerstone of Mystic’s musical community. As the founder and director of The Music Studio, Jerrica has grown her passion for music and education into a thriving business that now inspires students from across Southeastern Connecticut.

A Noank native and graduate of Fitch High School, Jerrica spent years teaching piano and voice lessons privately while raising her three children—Sheldon, Lindsey, and Gabriel. When her kids grew up and left the nest, she found herself with a familiar longing to connect through music. What started as a leap of faith—renting a small space in Old Mystic with no students and only a piano—quickly grew into something remarkable. Within three months, her schedule was full, and she soon began building a team of equally passionate instructors.

Today, The Music Studio offers instruction in piano, voice, guitar, ukulele, flute, violin, cello, and even banjo. Under Jerrica’s leadership, the studio has moved into a larger space and is now preparing to open its second location in Niantic/East Lyme.

But Jerrica’s vision goes far beyond lessons. “At The Music Studio, we’re not just teaching music—we’re building musicians,” she explains. The studio emphasizes performance as a key to growth, offering caroling groups, recitals, summer concert series, and participation in local events like Mystic’s Spring Stroll. Her students have gone on to attend prestigious conservatories and perform at venues such as the Goodspeed Opera House and Trinity Rep.

Her connection to the region runs deep. Jerrica fondly recalls her teenage years working downtown at the Whaler’s Inn and shopping local favorites like Adore. Her roots in the area, along with its seaside charm and strong sense of community, have made Mystic feel like home for nearly her entire life. "There’s something so comforting about living near the ocean, having the beaches just minutes away, and being surrounded by so much natural beauty,” she says.

In addition to her work with The Music Studio, Jerrica has been a proud member of the Mystic River Chorale and participates in community events like the Mystic Chamber Trunk or Treat and Easter Trunk Hop. She credits her success not just to her vision, but to those around her—especially Charles, “the man by my side,” who helps behind the scenes with unwavering support.

Running a business hasn’t come without its challenges. From juggling emails, marketing, and lesson schedules, to the hard-earned decision to delegate teaching to others, Jerrica has learned the power of trusting a team and stepping into her leadership role. Hiring an assistant was another milestone that allowed her to focus on what matters most: creating a joyful, enriching space for students to grow.

Outside the studio, Jerrica is passionate about living fully—hosting dinners, crafting cocktails, traveling), and spending time at the beach. A proud grandmother, she adores video chatting with her granddaughter Eliana in Alaska and takes any opportunity to shop for fun, frilly dresses to send her way.

When asked what inspires her, Jerrica doesn’t hesitate: “I’m fueled by the desire to bring something good and lasting into people’s lives.” She hopes her journey shows her children—and her community—that with courage and authenticity, anything is possible.

To be honored in the Community Proud series, she says, is deeply meaningful. “I’ve worked incredibly hard to get to where I am today… To have that work acknowledged means more than I can fully express.”

Thank you, Jerrica, for your passion, perseverance, and the joyful music you bring to Mystic. Your story is an inspiration, and we’re proud to celebrate you.