Sharp and Flat is a company working to make music more accessible and meaningful for people of all abilities. As part of this effort, the company is developing new ways to make instruments easier to learn and play, while creating opportunities for people with hearing loss and other challenges to connect with music.
Through its recently launched Theraplaying program, designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, Sharp and Flat uses music and occupational therapy modalities to support improved movement, coordination, and overall well-being. The program has drawn national and regional attention, including a feature on Good Morning America and coverage in other outlets.
Following the company’s two peer-reviewed publications, Sharp and Flat is also in discussions with two of the largest music and innovation companies to support the program’s global expansion and the associated medical device. By combining creativity with research and real-world application, Sharp and Flat is helping expand how music can support both health and community.
Since becoming a MiSpringboard client in 2024, Varnum has provided comprehensive legal support to Sharp and Flat across several key areas. The firm helped establish the new subsidiary, Theraplaying, LLC, and secured federal trademark protection for the company’s core brands. Varnum also managed the transfer of existing intellectual property rights to the company and advised on a seed funding round, including preparing investment documents, an equity incentive plan, and related corporate governance matters. The Varnum team advising Sharp and Flat is led by partner Eric Post and includes Staci DeRegnaucourt.
Launched in 2011, the MiSpringboard program was created to remove barriers associated with starting a business by providing free legal services to startups. To date, Varnum has assisted over 1,000 clients through the program.
