Opus1, a software management platform for music and performing arts schools, announced the appointment of Sharad Mohan as Chief Executive Officer alongside the completion of a Series B financing round led by Five Elms Capital.
Founder Sam Lellouche will transition from CEO to Chief Strategy Officer and remain actively involved as a member of the executive team and Board of Directors.
The company, which supports more than 200,000 active students and facilitates over 10 million lessons annually, is positioning itself as a category leader in performing arts software. The new capital will be used to accelerate product innovation and expand platform capabilities, enabling schools to manage operations such as scheduling, billing, communications, and analytics within a single integrated system.
Opus1 operates in a large and fragmented performing arts education market that has historically lacked purpose-built software solutions. The company’s growth reflects increasing demand for vertically integrated tools tailored to music schools and broader performing arts programs.
Mohan brings experience scaling vertical SaaS businesses, having previously co-founded and led Trainerize, a platform serving personal trainers and gyms. His appointment signals a focus on category expansion and operational scaling as Opus1 continues to grow its footprint across lesson- and class-based education businesses.
Five Elms Capital, which manages more than $3 billion in assets and has invested in over 70 software platforms globally, backed the round as part of its strategy to support high-growth, mission-driven software companies.
Opus1 said its mission remains centered on helping performing arts schools reduce administrative complexity and focus more on student development and education outcomes.
KEY QUOTES:
“The first time I walked into one of our schools, I could feel the energy right away. Families were dropping off kids, music was coming from every room, and teachers were working with students who were clearly excited to be there. In that moment, it became clear why Opus1 exists: to support music and dance schools with technology so educators can focus on what they do best, developing the next generation of performing arts talent. I’m excited to work alongside educators and continue building the tools that support these communities as they grow and inspire generations to come.”
Sharad Mohan, Chief Executive Officer of Opus1
“Building Opus1 has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. What makes me most proud is seeing how the platform has helped so many performing arts schools grow stronger businesses and deepen their impact in the communities they serve. As we enter our next chapter of growth, Sharad’s experience building category-defining vertical software companies and his passion for mission-driven businesses make him the ideal person to lead Opus1. I’m thrilled to partner with him as I transition into the role of Chief Strategy Officer, where I’ll remain deeply involved with our product, our customers, and the long-term vision of the company.”
Sam Lellouche, Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Opus1
