So many performing musicians write off teaching music lessons. Their heart is in performing, their degree is in performance and they love the thrill of being on stage. Teaching music lessons was never a goal. Yet, reality strikes. If the dream performance opportunity does not arrive right after graduation, what is the next plan? For many music majors it is either a day job or a few students here and there. Suddenly musicians are teaching who did not give any thought or preparation to establishing a studio. It is seen as a short-term solution, just a few students to cover the bills and pay rent.

The problem with this though is that thinking about getting a few students on the side to pay the bills projects a very different feel than, providing a service. We have all encountered a sales person who hovers and feels pushy. You can feel their desperation, even when they ask, “can I help you?” We have also had great experiences where the sales person is very knowledgeable and helpful. What is the difference? One wants the sale, the other provides a service. In exchange for providing a service, the 2nd person receives a sale. Read the rest of this entry »