Spark Harbor, a platform operator of franchised youth activity brands, has acquired Bach to Rock, a music school franchise focused on performance-based music education, from Cambridge Information Group (CIG).
The acquisition marks Spark Harbor’s expansion into music education and represents the third brand added to its youth activities platform in the last three years. Bach to Rock operates 57 locations across the United States, with an additional 10 units in development.
Bach to Rock has earned recognition on the Franchise 500 list for the past decade and has built a national presence through a model that combines music instruction with live performance opportunities. The company serves students of all ages through private lessons, group instruction, bands, recording sessions, and DJ education programs.
According to the companies, Bach to Rock’s existing leadership team will remain in place and continue leading the business. Spark Harbor plans to support the company’s next phase of growth through operational expertise and franchise development resources.
Brian Gross, President of Bach to Rock, said the transaction reflects the strength of the company’s operating model and franchise system. He noted that the partnership will provide additional resources and strategic support to help accelerate expansion.
Andy Snyder, CEO of Cambridge Information Group, highlighted the firm’s long history with the company, noting that CIG acquired a single Bach to Rock location in 2007 and helped transform it into a national franchise organization.
The acquisition expands Spark Harbor’s growing portfolio, which already includes Water Babies, a baby and infant swim school franchise acquired in 2024, and USA Ninja Challenge, a youth obstacle course training franchise acquired in 2025.
Spark Harbor said the addition of Bach to Rock aligns with its strategy of acquiring family-focused brands with strong consumer demand, franchise scalability, and long-term growth potential.
East Wind Advisors served as financial advisor to Bach to Rock on the transaction.
KEY QUOTES:
“Bach to Rock has developed exactly what we look for: a curriculum that keeps students coming back year after year, a franchisee base that believes in the model, and schools that provide a third place for kids to find community and confidence. We are bringing operator experience and franchise development expertise to accelerate growth and reach more families across the country.”
Jeff Phillips, Founding CEO, Spark Harbor
“We’ve spent years building a model that delivers for franchisees, students, and families alike. Partnering with Spark Harbor validates that work and gives us the resources and strategic support to scale even further.”
Brian Gross, President, Bach to Rock
“CIG acquired a single Bach to Rock site in 2007 and helped build the company into the top-tier national franchisor it is today. We are excited about Spark Harbor’s vision for the brand and their ideal stewardship of Bach to Rock’s next chapter.”
Andy Snyder, CEO, Cambridge Information Group
