Why I Purposefully Didn’t Write My Own Podcast Intro Music (Even as a Composer)

Why I Purposefully Didn’t Write My Own Podcast Intro Music (Even as a Composer)
Let me just say it up front:

Yes — I’m a composer.
Yes — I could have written my own podcast intro music.
And no — I didn’t.

But not because I didn’t care.
And not because I ran out of time.

I chose not to — on purpose.

In fact, I picked a piece I absolutely adore: the Double Violin Concerto in D minor, 1st movement by J.S. Bach. 🎻

Why? Because I love Bach. I connect with it. It reflects my values — structure and flow, soul and discipline, beauty and order.

And that’s the point of this post.

🎶 I Could Have Composed It… But I Didn’t Need To

When I launched my podcast, I had this voice in the back of my head:

“You should write your own theme music. You’re a composer. It would be the perfect showcase.”
But if I’m being honest — I knew that road.

I knew it would lead to days tweaking melodies, second-guessing tone, wondering if it was “good enough,” and maybe even pushing back the launch while I tried to get it just right.

And that’s not what I needed.

What I needed was:
  • To launch.
  • To start connecting.
  • To teach, to encourage, to serve.
I didn’t need to prove I could write music — I do that in other times and spaces.

I needed to choose wisely where to invest my time and energy.

So instead, I picked music that already lived in my bones. Something that resonated with me on a deeper level and said, “This is who I am,” without me needing to write a single note.

🧠 Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should

Here’s the bigger takeaway:

Whether you’re composing, teaching, or building a new business — there will always be opportunities to do more.

To prove your skill.
To check every box.
To make it all “custom.”

But what if your next level isn’t about doing more… it’s about choosing what actually matters?

When we stretch ourselves too thin doing all the things just because we can, we end up robbing ourselves of clarity, creativity, and momentum.

✨ What This Looks Like in Your Business

If you’re a freelance music teacher trying to build something sustainable — online lessons, digital courses, a hybrid studio — I want you to hear this loud and clear:

You don’t have to do everything to prove you're talented.
You don’t have to build it all from scratch to make it meaningful.
You don’t have to be the composer, performer, editor, marketer, admin, AND accountant.
You get to be strategic.

You get to use what already exists — and love it deeply.

You get to protect your energy so you can show up fully in the roles that matter most.

TL;DR (Because: real life)

I didn’t write my own podcast intro music.

I chose Bach — because it’s beautiful, it’s meaningful, and I didn’t need to start from scratch.
And in that choice, I gave myself space to launch, not delay.

To move forward, not spin in circles.

I hope this gives you permission to do the same — in your own way, in your own work.

🎯 If Marketing Is the Thing You Know You Need to Hand Off…

You’re not alone — and you don’t have to DIY your way through all of it.

If your to-do list is full of marketing tasks you secretly dread, I’m your person.

Let’s take it off your plate — so you can get back to creating, teaching, and building the life you actually want.


It’s a custom look at how your business is positioned in your local area — so you can stop guessing, start growing, and finally feel clear on where to go next.

You bring the heart. I’ll bring the strategy. 💛

Is Freelance Teaching Right for Me?

Is Freelance Teaching Right for Me?
Ever found yourself thinking…

There has got to be a better way to teach music.
If that thought has been circling your brain lately, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not broken.
You might still love teaching… but the system you’re in?

That’s another story.

If you’ve been daydreaming about setting your own schedule, choosing your students, building your own curriculum—or honestly, just being able to use the bathroom without asking for coverage—freelance teaching might be worth considering.

But is it really the right fit for you?

Let’s talk about it.

Signs freelance teaching might be your next step:

  • You’re still passionate about teaching, but totally burned out by the system
  • You want more flexibility for your family, your health, your sanity
  • You’re craving more creativity, freedom, or income potential
  • You’re drawn to the idea of building something that’s yours
Sound familiar?

But let’s be honest—it’s not all sunshine and schedule freedom.

There are fears (normal ones!), some mindset shifts, and a few red flags that might mean it’s not the right time just yet.

And that’s okay, too.
I talk through all of this in Episode 2 of the podcast, Out of the Music Room.

We cover who freelance teaching is perfect for, what fears are totally normal (but don’t have to stop you), and why this path doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing.

🎧 Listen to Episode 2 here: Is Freelance Music Teaching Right for You?

Whether you’re ready to leap or just dipping a toe in, this is your safe place to explore the “what if.”

You’re not behind. You’re not crazy.

You’re right on time.

Marketing During “Off” Seasons (Like Summer or Holidays)

Marketing During “Off” Seasons (Like Summer or Holidays)
Let’s talk about the weird, quiet stretches on the freelance music teacher calendar.

You know the ones:
  • Summer break
  • The holidays
  • That awkward post-recital slump
  • Mid-January when everyone’s still in pajamas
These seasons can feel like a full stop.

Students travel, families go into hibernation mode, and suddenly your inbox is quieter than you’d like.

So the question is…
Should you stop marketing during these “off” times?
Nope. But you should market differently.

First: Off-seasons aren’t failures—they’re rhythms.

Freelance businesses have seasons, not just schedules.

You’re not doing anything wrong if things slow down in July or January.

But here’s the secret:
How you show up during the quiet seasons sets you up for the busy ones.

Think of it like gardening.

Summer might feel like dry soil… but what you plant now?

That’s what blooms in September.

So what kind of marketing does work in off-seasons?

Here’s what I recommend:
1. Focus on nurturing, not selling.
This is the time to show up with value—tips, encouragement, behind-the-scenes moments. Stay top-of-mind without shouting “Buy from me!”

2. Reconnect with your list.
Summer is a great time to warm up your email audience, run a simple re-engagement sequence, or share a few “what I’m working on” updates.

3. Talk to future students.
Plant seeds for fall enrollment or back-to-school offers. Preview what’s coming, share early-bird bonuses, and invite people to get on your waitlist.

4. Evaluate and prep.
This is prime time to refresh/redo your website, update your welcome sequence, or build out new evergreen offers. Do the foundational work now so it’s ready when inquiries pick back up.


Want some fresh eyes on your marketing strategy?

I offer 1:1 coaching and custom resources to help you market smarter, not harder—so you're not stuck reinventing the wheel every season.

Shoot me a message or hop into the Freelance Music Teacher Community on Facebook if you want support!

And remember:

A quiet season isn’t a dead end.
It’s a window of opportunity.

Can You Actually Build a Music Teaching Business Without Social Media?

Can You Actually Build a Music Teaching Business Without Social Media?
Short answer?
Yes.

Long answer?
Absolutely—but you’ve gotta get strategic.

Let’s be real:

If you’ve ever considered deleting your Instagram account mid-scroll or felt a tiny bit resentful of having to dance, post, or film your life just to get students... you are not alone.

Social media has become the default marketing advice for freelancers, but for a lot of music teachers, it’s actually causing more stress than success.

And here’s the real kicker:
You don’t need to be everywhere online to build a thriving business.
You just need to be in the right places—doing the things that actually move the needle.

Why this myth is so loud in our industry

Most of us were never taught how to build a business.

We were trained to teach.

So when it’s time to “put ourselves out there,” we do what everyone else seems to be doing…
Social media
Hoping someone notices
Spinning our wheels trying to stay “visible”

But visibility without strategy?

It’s just noise.

You’re a teacher, not a TikTok creator. And your dream business shouldn’t depend on an algorithm.

So what does work if I’m not using social media?

Ohhh man, let me show you what I wish someone told me sooner:

✔️ Email marketing (yep!)

It’s the #1 way I connect with potential students, share offers, and serve my audience.

You don’t need a giant list—just the right people and a clear message.

✔️ Local SEO (Google-friendly content)

You’d be amazed how many parents search “voice teacher near me” or “piano lessons for adults in [city].” Are you showing up when they do?
Hint: A simple, clear sales-driven website and a Google Business profile go a long way.

✔️ Local connections + word of mouth

This old-school method? Still undefeated.
Coffee shop flyers, community boards, PTA connections, partnerships with local schools or homeschool co-ops… golden.

✔️ Free value-packed content

Blog posts, PDFs, video trainings—things that position you as the go-to guide.
Not to go “viral,” but to build trust.

And when those resources are paired with a smart CTA to join your email list? Boom. You’ve got a system.

You don’t need more followers—you need more focus.

More clarity.

More connection.

More courage to build your version of a sustainable business.

If social media lights you up? Awesome—use it with intention.

But if it makes you feel behind, anxious, or just plain burnt out?

Let’s release it. No need to run the rat race!

Your business can grow without being online 24/7.

You just need a marketing plan that fits your life, your family, and your energy.

And guess what?
I help music teachers build exactly that kind of business.
Strategic. Sustainable. Soulful.

Ready to find your local edge?

If your dream students are in your city but you’re not sure how to reach them, grab this freebie:
Local Market Analysis Report for Music Teachers

It’ll show you how to spot opportunity gaps, position your business in your community, and grow without posting on every platform.
You're not building just a studio.

You're building a business.

And you get to do it in a way that actually works for your life.

Let’s go!

Why Social Media Followers Aren’t Leads (And What To Do Instead)

Why Social Media Followers Aren’t Leads (And What To Do Instead)
Let me guess.

You’ve been showing up on Instagram. You’re posting about your lessons. You’re even trying those little trending audios where you point at text boxes and lip sync (major kudos if you actually enjoy those 😅).

But despite all the doing... your schedule still has more holes than a practice room on a Friday night.

And the little voice in your head is starting to whisper things like:
“Maybe I’m just not cut out for this…”
“What am I missing?”
“Why is this working for other teachers but not me?”
Friend, it’s not you. It’s the strategy.

The truth they don’t tell you about going freelance

Most classroom music teachers who dream of going freelance have a moment where it all feels possible—freedom, flexibility, and more time with your family.

And then?
Reality hits.

Bills. Doubts. The pressure to “build a brand.”

The fear of giving up a steady paycheck for something that might not work.

So what do we do? We dip a toe in.

We start posting online.

We try to “build an audience.”

We hope the students will come.

But here’s the thing...

❌ Followers are not the same as leads.

You can have 2,000 followers and still no income.

You can have a viral post and still no paid bookings.

Because visibility ≠ viability.

Social media is great for attention & visibility.

But email marketing is where real connection—and real business—happens.

Wait… do I really need email marketing?

If you’re serious about building more than just a lesson studio—
If you’re dreaming of digital offers, group programs, local partnerships, creative freedom and real income—then yes.

Because email isn’t just for big brands or “techy people.”

It’s your direct line to the people who care about what you offer—and are ready to go deeper.

Here’s why it works:
  • It’s personal. You’re showing up in their inbox, not buried in a feed.
  • It’s intentional. You can guide people through a journey—not just hope they happen to see your next post.
  • It converts. Like, way more than social. (Some stats say 6x higher. I believe it.)

So… what should I send?

Don’t overthink it. Start with value.

  • A weekly tip or encouragement
  • A behind-the-scenes story from your teaching or biz-building life
  • Student wins or testimonials
  • Updates on offers, workshops, new resources
  • Sneak peeks & early release offers
  • Free content with a clear CTA (even if that CTA is “come hang out with me!”)
Pro Tip: You don’t need to email daily. Just show up consistently—like a real person, not a brand billboard.

But what if I’m still not getting bites?

Then it’s time to zoom out.

If your emails, posts, or offers aren’t landing, it’s probably not a content problem—it’s a clarity problem.
Who exactly are you trying to help?
What do they actually need?
How do you solve that problem better than anyone else?
When you get super clear on your ideal student (aka dream client), your whole message shifts.

Suddenly, people start saying things like: “It’s like you’re inside my head.”

And that? That's the beginning of real traction.

💡 Inside this blog, I share how I help teachers build that clarity through a custom Ideal Student Blueprint—and what that process can unlock for your business.

Final thoughts from someone who's been there...

You’re not “just” teaching lessons.

You’re building a business.

A business that creates time, income, and freedom.
A business that reflects who you are and how you love to serve.
A business that doesn’t rely on algorithms or burnout to grow.

So stop waiting to “feel ready.”

You’re already equipped!
Now let’s build it—on purpose.

Stop Hiding: Simple Ways to Get Seen in Your Local Area

Stop Hiding: Simple Ways to Get Seen in Your Local Area
If you’ve ever said, “I’m not getting enough inquiries,” or “No one in my area knows I exist,” this post is for you.

Because here’s the truth most freelance music teachers don’t hear:
You don’t need to go viral to grow a successful business.
You just need to show up where your people are already looking.
That’s where local SEO comes in.

So… what is local SEO?

It simply means making sure your business shows up when people search for things like:
  • “Voice teacher near me”
  • “Piano lessons in [your city]”
  • “Violin lessons for beginners [zip code]”
  • “Music classes for kids [town name]”
And spoiler: these people aren’t just browsing. They’re actively looking for what you offer.

They’re warm leads. They’re local.

And if your studio’s not showing up when they search… that’s a missed opportunity.

Why this matters especially for freelance teachers:

If you’re not part of a school, studio, or music academy… you are the business.

That means you have to be easy to find.

The good news? You don’t need a huge budget or a fancy website to get started. Just a few key things can help:
  • A clear, search-friendly homepage or website that actually converts
  • A Google Business profile with current info, photos, and reviews
  • A few blog posts or pages that use phrases people are actually typing into Google
It doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be intentional.

Want help figuring out how you stack up locally?

Grab this custom freebie:
📍 The Local Market Analysis Report for Music Teachers

It’ll walk you through how to check what other teachers in your area are doing, where you might stand out, and how to show up more clearly for your dream students.

You don’t need more posts.

You need to be easier to find by the people who already want what you offer.

Let’s make sure your local visibility reflects the amazing work you’re doing.

Are You Marketing… or Just Posting?

Are You Marketing… or Just Posting?
Okay, real talk time.

Have you ever spent 45 minutes crafting an Instagram post—choosing the perfect picture, writing a thoughtful caption, adding hashtags—only to get a handful of likes and zero student inquiries?

And then thought:
“But I’m doing all the things… why isn’t this working?”
I’ve been there.

Spoiler alert: what you’re doing might not be marketing. It might just be posting.

Wait, isn’t social media part of marketing?

Technically? Sure.

But here’s the difference no one talks about:
Marketing has a purpose.

It leads somewhere. It’s part of a system. It helps move people from stranger → curious → ready to book.

Posting, on the other hand?

Is often just content creation. And unless it’s part of a strategy, it usually leads to frustration.

So let’s look at the signs...

🚩 You might just be posting if:

  • You're posting consistently but still not getting inquiries
  • You’re not sure what the goal of your posts actually is
  • You don’t have a system to follow up with interested people
  • You’re relying on “hope marketing” (as in: “I hope someone sees this and books a lesson or buys a course!”)
  • You’re not collecting emails or offering clear next steps
Sound familiar?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone. And you’re not doing it all wrong. You just need a shift in strategy.

What real marketing actually looks like

Let’s simplify this.

Real marketing is about connection and conversion.

It’s about helping the right people find you, trust you, and take that next step—whether that’s signing up for your list, downloading a resource, or booking with you.

That means:
  • You know who your ideal student is (and speak directly to them)
  • You offer clear next steps (not just “like and share!”)
  • You nurture leads over time (think: email series, helpful content, invitations—not pressure)
  • You measure what’s working and adjust with intention
  • You’re building something bigger than just a full 1:1 schedule—you’re building a business

So how do I start actually marketing?

It starts with clarity.

Ask yourself:
  • Who do I really want to teach?
  • What makes me different?
  • What problem am I solving for them?
  • What’s the best way to reach them consistently—without burning out?
Then?

Start treating your social posts, emails, blogs, and even conversations as part of one connected message.
A message that says:
“Hey, I see you. I understand your needs. And I’ve built something just for you.”
That’s when it shifts.

Ready to make your marketing mean something?

This is exactly the kind of thing I walk teachers through inside my 1:1 Ideal Student Blueprint process. Because when your messaging lines up with your dream client?

It stops feeling like work.

It starts bringing in the right people.

And your business finally starts to grow—with clarity and calm.

Here’s your reminder:

You’re not just building a studio.

You’re building a business.

And you get to build it with intention—not overwhelm.

The Biggest Lie Freelance Music Teachers Believe About Social Media

The Biggest Lie Freelance Music Teachers Believe About Social Media
Let me guess...
You’ve been told (or felt that constant nudge) to “be more consistent” online.
“Post every day.”
“Show your face more.”
“Keep showing up — even if no one’s commenting.”
And while consistency can help… here’s the honest truth:
Posting more isn’t the same as posting with purpose.

The biggest myth I see among music teachers running their own studios is this:
“If I just post more, it’ll eventually start working.”
But friend… that strategy leads straight to burnout.
Let’s talk about what actually does work.

What Posting More Really Does (If There’s No Strategy)

If your content isn’t connected to a clear plan, then posting more just leads to:

  • Wasted time
  • Mental fatigue
  • Feeling like social media is a second job
  • Zero leads, despite all that effort
I see it all the time with brilliant, hard-working teachers who already have a full (or nearly full) studio… but want to grow with less hustle. Whether that means launching group programs, digital offers, or just bringing in more aligned students—more posts alone won’t get you there.

So... What Does Work?

If you want social media to work for you (instead of feeling like a chore), here’s where to start:

1. Define the Goal of Your Content

Every post should have a job. Are you trying to…
  • Build trust with potential students (or their parents)?
  • Get clicks to your lesson info page?
  • Encourage people to join your email list?
  • Kick up your algorithm with engagement?
No more “I haven’t posted today” panic posts. Every piece of content should serve your bigger picture.

2. Focus on Strategy Over Frequency

Posting three thoughtful posts a week will always outperform seven random ones.
You don’t need to chase trends or post daily to get results.
You need to speak clearly to the person you want to help, with content that connects.

3. Plug Social Media Into a Bigger System

Social media is just one part of the puzzle—it shouldn’t be your entire marketing plan.
Your content should lead people to:

  • Your website
  • Your email list
  • Your inquiry form or booking page
  • A clear onboarding path
That’s how we turn followers into students—and visibility into income.

Real Talk for the Music Teacher Scrollin’ Instagram at 10 PM

You’re not failing at social media.
You’ve just been given the wrong tools.
More posts ≠ more students.
More strategy = more results.

You deserve a marketing plan that works for you—and gives you time back for the life you’re building.

Ready to Make Social Media Actually Work for Your Studio?


This isn’t another fluffy checklist. It’s a practical roadmap that shows you how to simplify your marketing, attract better-fit students, and stop wasting time on content that doesn’t convert.

It’s time to stop guessing—and start growing.

What Happens When You Don’t Know Your Ideal Student (And How to Fix It)

What Happens When You Don’t Know Your Ideal Student (And How to Fix It)
Let’s talk about one of the sneakiest reasons your marketing might not be working the way you hoped.

You're showing up online.
You're posting to Instagram or Facebook.
You’re offering lessons, group classes, or courses…
But it feels like no one’s actually listening. (Cue crickets)

Here’s the truth that most music teachers aren’t told:

It’s not always about how often you're posting or which platform you’re on.
It might be that you’re not speaking clearly to the right person.

Why Knowing Your Ideal Student (or Parent!) Changes Everything

When you're not 100% sure who you're trying to reach, your marketing gets… well, kinda meh.
Your posts feel flat.
Your emails feel awkward.
And your audience? Confused.

Here’s what that usually looks like:

  • You're writing content that even you wouldn’t stop to read
  • You’re getting inquiries from people who don’t really fit your vibe (or budget)
  • You feel stuck every time you sit down to make content
  • Your offers don’t sell like you hoped
  • And you’re constantly second-guessing your messaging
Exhausting, right?

But when you do have clarity around your ideal student — or the parent who’s hiring you — everything shifts.
Your message lands.
Your offers click.
The right people start finding you (and saying YES).

Not Sure Who Your Ideal Client Is? Here’s How That Might Show Up:

  • You’re posting regularly… but engagement is low
  • You’re getting questions that don’t match what you actually offer
  • You struggle to explain what you do and who it's for
  • You're getting inquiries from people who aren’t ready, aren’t a fit, or just want a discount
  • You're tweaking your messaging over and over… and still feel like it's off
If that sounds familiar, take a deep breath. You’re not alone. And you’re not doing anything wrong.
You just need a bit of clarity. And I’ve got you. 💛

How to Fix It (Without a 47-Page Worksheet!)

Let’s keep this simple and actually useful. Ask yourself these three questions:

1. Who do I love teaching — and why?

Think about your favorite students (or their parents).
What were they like?
What did they care about?
Why did working with them light you up?

2. What are they struggling with before they find me?

This is GOLD. Maybe they’re overwhelmed by online learning. Maybe their kid’s confidence is tanking. Maybe they want a better option than the after-school chaos.
Speak directly to that moment.
What do you teach/help them with -- specifically? (Don't just say "piano lessons.")

3. What outcome are they hoping for?

Don’t just list features (“8 lessons per month, 30 minutes each”).

Speak to the transformation:

More confidence
A love of music
An xyz philosophy of learning and its results
Better focus
A teacher who gets their child

When You Know Who You’re Talking To, Everything Gets Easier:

✅ Your content flows
✅ Your offers resonate
✅ Your students (and their parents) feel connected before they even hit "inquire"
✅ And best of all—you feel confident sharing your work

No more being everything to everyone.

You’ll start attracting students who are truly a great fit—and who are thrilled to pay for the transformation you provide.

Want Help Defining Your Ideal Student (Without Spinning Your Wheels)?

You don’t need another generic worksheet.

You need a plug-and-play guide that actually makes sense for music teachers building businesses on their terms.

That’s why I created the Ideal Student Blueprint

It’ll help you:
  • Get crystal-clear on who your perfect-fit student (or parent) really is
  • Understand what they’re looking for and how to speak their language
  • Create messaging that clicks—so your website, posts, and emails actually work
  • Build the foundation for marketing that feels focused, not frantic
Whether you’re going full-time freelance or just refining your current offers, this blueprint will help you dial in your message with confidence.


Because clarity isn’t just a nice-to-have.

It’s your first step to building a business that feels aligned, sustainable, and so much lighter.

🎵 Can We Please Stop Glorifying the Hustle?

🎵 Can We Please Stop Glorifying the Hustle?
There was a season where I wore exhaustion like a badge of honor.

Teaching back-to-back classes by day. Private lessons after school.

Grading during lunch. Rehearsals at night.

Squeezing lesson planning, laundry, and marketing into whatever spare seconds I could find.

It looked like commitment on the outside.

But inside?

It felt like burnout.

And here’s the wild part: I actually believed that was what success was supposed to look like.

Maybe you’ve believed it too?

The Lie of “Hustle Culture” in Music Ed

We’ve been fed this idea that if we just work harder, say yes to more gigs, pick up extra students, volunteer for one more after-school program… then it’ll all finally click.

But here’s what I’ve learned (the hard way):
🎯 Hustle doesn’t guarantee results.
🎯 Working harder doesn’t always mean working smarter.
🎯 That “dream job” starts to feel like a trap when there’s no margin left for your own life.

And if you’re exhausted, stretched thin, and quietly resenting the job you once loved… you are not alone.

So… What Does Build a Sustainable Music Biz?

If you’re done with survival mode and ready for something better, here’s what I want you to know:

1. You Don’t Need to Be Busy to Be Impactful

Some of my most profitable and peaceful weeks happened when I taught fewer students—because I had the right ones, in the right model, with the right systems.

When you know what actually moves the needle? You stop wasting time on what doesn’t.

2. Simplicity is Your Superpower

You don’t need 5 social platforms, 17 pricing tiers, or a jam-packed calendar to make this work.

You need one solid offer, one aligned audience, and a system that supports your life.

This is what I help other music teachers build every day—freedom-based teaching businesses that actually feel good to run.

3. Time Freedom Shouldn’t Be a Bonus—It Should Be the Blueprint

You didn’t start dreaming of freelancing so you could be more overwhelmed.

You want:
  • Flexibility.
  • Family time.
  • The ability to nap on a Tuesday if your toddler was up all night. 😅
Let’s build your business with that in mind from the start.

Hustle Isn’t the Goal. Harmony Is.

You can hold high standards and healthy boundaries.

You can build a business you love without burning out.

You can grow your income and your joy at the same time.

If that’s what you want? You’re not lazy.

You’re wise.

And you're exactly who I created my programs, resources, and this community for. 💛

Ready to Build a Music Business That Doesn't Require Burnout?

Start here 👇

✅ Free Quick Start Marketing Guide for Music Teachers
It’s your first step toward building a business that grows—without grinding yourself into the ground.
You're not behind. You're just getting started. And I’m cheering wildly for you. 💛


5 Ways to Get More Students From Your YouTube & Video Content

5 Ways to Get More Students From Your YouTube & Video Content
Hey there fellow music teacher! Let me tell you something - when I first started posting teaching videos online, I had NO IDEA what I was doing. My first video got exactly 12 views (pretty sure 10 were from my mom), but fast forward to today, and my content has helped me build a thriving studio with a waiting list!

The truth? Social media isn't just about likes and follows - it's about genuine connections that turn viewers into actual students. So let's cut through the noise and focus on what ACTUALLY works!

1. Show Your Teaching Style, Not Just Your Playing

This was my game-changer! Instead of just posting perfect performances, I started sharing:
  • Quick technique fixes
  • Before/after student progress moments
  • "Watch me teach this tricky section" videos
Parents and potential students need to see HOW you teach, not just WHAT you can play. Remember: they're looking for a teacher, not a performer!

2. Create Clear Next Steps (Always!)

Ever posted something that got tons of views but zero inquiries? Been there! 🤦‍♀️

The missing piece? A clear call-to-action. Now I always end videos with something specific:
  • "DM me 'SCALES' for my free fingering chart"
  • "Comment 'LESSON' if you want help with this technique"
  • "Link to schedule a trial lesson in bio!"

3. Answer Questions Nobody's Asking (Yet)

Some of my highest-converting content answers questions potential students don't even know to ask:
  • "What age should kids start piano?"
  • "How often should you tune your violin?"
  • "Can adults really learn guitar from scratch?"
These questions establish you as THE expert while addressing the exact concerns that keep people from booking lessons!

4. Create Location-Specific Content

Game. Changer. When I started mentioning my city in video titles and descriptions, my local reach exploded. Try:
  • "5 Piano Tips for Beginners in [Your City]"
  • "Looking for Music Lessons in [Your Area]? Here's what to expect"
The local SEO boost puts you front and center when parents search for teachers nearby!

5. Share Student Success Stories (With Permission!)

Nothing sells your teaching like results! My most effective videos showcase student progress - the 8-year-old who mastered a difficult piece, or the adult beginner playing their first complete song.

Just make sure to get proper permission, especially for minors. The before-and-after format is pure GOLD for demonstrating your teaching effectiveness!

The Real Secret: Consistency > Perfection

You don't need fancy equipment or perfect videos. What you DO need is consistent posting that showcases your teaching personality and expertise.

Between lesson planning, actual teaching, and being a mom to a very energetic toddler, I know time is precious! I batch create content while my daughter naps - just 1-2 hours gives me enough content for the entire week.

What's one small step you could take this week to improve your music teaching content? Drop a comment below - I'd love to hear what you're working on! ✨

4 Ways to Address Burnout as a Music Teacher - A Practical Guide

4 Ways to Address Burnout as a Music Teacher - A Practical Guide
As a music teacher, experiencing burnout can be overwhelming and disheartening -- I know it because I lived it too. It is a really challenging place to be. However, there are practical steps you can take to address this issue and potentially transition to more fulfilling work arrangements or implement strategies to help yourself cope better. This guide offers four actionable strategies to help you navigate burnout and rediscover your passion for music education.

1. Recognize and Acknowledge Burnout

The first step in addressing burnout is to recognize its signs and acknowledge that you're experiencing it. Common symptoms include:
  • Constant fatigue and lack of energy
  • Decreased motivation and job satisfaction
  • Increased irritability with students or colleagues
  • Difficulty concentrating or being creative in lessons
  • Physical symptoms like headaches or insomnia
If you're experiencing several of these signs, it's time to take action. Remember, acknowledging burnout is not a sign of weakness but a crucial step towards recovery and professional growth.

2. Prioritize Self-Care and Work-Life Balance

Self-care is essential for maintaining your well-being and effectiveness as an educator. Keep in mind, though, that self-care is not the solution to burnout, merely a normal part of daily living that should be already in place.
  • Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life
  • Prioritize sleep and maintain a healthy diet
  • Exercise regularly to reduce stress
  • Engage in activities you enjoy outside of work
  • Practice mindfulness or meditation to manage stress
Additionally, reassess your workload and priorities:
  1. Make a list of all your responsibilities
  2. Categorize tasks into "Must-Do," "Delegate," and "May-Do"
  3. Focus on high-impact activities that directly benefit your program
  4. Delegate tasks when possible to parents or students or colleagues to lighten your load
  5. Consider eliminating or postponing low-priority items
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself first is not selfish; it's necessary to be an effective teacher.

3. Seek Support and Build a Community

Connecting with other music educators can provide valuable support and fresh perspectives:
  • Join professional organizations for music educators
  • Participate in online forums or social media groups for music teachers
  • Attend conferences or workshops to network and gain new ideas & reignite passion
Talking about your experiences with colleagues who understand your challenges can be incredibly cathartic and help you feel less isolated. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if burnout is severely impacting your mental health.

4. Explore Flexible Teaching Options

If traditional school settings are causing burnout, consider transitioning to more flexible teaching arrangements (for help with this from someone who is knowledgeable, successful, and loves to custom create a plan with a tangible system, check out music leadership coaching):

Private Lessons

  • Set up a home studio or teach online
  • Choose your own hours and student load
  • Focus on one-on-one instruction in your preferred instruments or areas

Community Music Programs

  • Lead a community choir or instrumental group
  • Work with motivated adult learners
  • Organize performances and events on a more relaxed schedule

Homeschool Music Instruction

  • Offer music classes or lessons to homeschool groups
  • Create a flexible schedule that works for you and your students
  • Tailor curriculum to individual needs and interests

Online Music Education

  • Create and sell educational resources
  • Offer virtual workshops or masterclasses
  • Develop a YouTube channel or podcast focused on music education
When transitioning to freelance work, consider these steps:
  1. Start by taking on a few freelance projects while still teaching
  2. Build a portfolio of your work and skills
  3. Hire a coach who is knowledgeable, successful at doing this transition in the same way you would like to do it, and has a system
  4. Network with potential clients and other freelance music educators
  5. Gradually reduce your teaching hours as your freelance work grows, if possible
  6. Develop business skills necessary for successful freelancing, such as marketing and financial management. Check out HBR for a great, lifetime access & updates business course!
Remember, experiencing burnout doesn't mean you're a failure or that you should give up on music education. It's a sign that changes are needed to restore your well-being and passion for teaching. By implementing these four strategies - recognizing burnout, prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and exploring flexible teaching options - you can overcome burnout and continue to make a positive impact through music education, whether in a traditional classroom setting or through alternative teaching arrangements. As you navigate this transition, be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories. I'd be happy to come alongside you and cheer you on in this! With time and effort, you can rediscover the joy that initially drew you to music education and create a more sustainable and fulfilling career path.

 
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