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.
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 based on an arbitrary algorithm.
- 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 Call To Action (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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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).
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. 💛
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?
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
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
✅ 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.
Setting Up a Budget-Friendly Home Music Teaching Studio: Practical Tips and Tricks
Establishing a home music teaching studio can be an exciting and fulfilling venture. Fortunately, with the accessibility of affordable equipment and creative solutions, creating a music teaching space on a budget is very feasible. Whether you're teaching voice, theory, or an instrument, here are some valuable tips and tricks to help you set up your home teaching studio without breaking the bank.
1. Identify Your Primary Teaching Focus
Begin by clearly defining the scope of your music teaching studio. Are you primarily offering instrumental lessons, vocal coaching, or a combination of both? Does the space you are creating need to accommodate any other types of instruction? Are you teaching virtually or in-person or both? Small groups or 1-1? Identifying these factors will guide your equipment choices and help you allocate your budget effectively.
2. Optimize Your Teaching Space
Creating an inviting and conducive teaching environment doesn't necessarily require a dedicated room. Find a quiet and well-lit corner in your home where you can conduct lessons without distractions. Consider factors like seating arrangements, lighting, and the placement of instruments or teaching aids to enhance the overall learning experience. Consider that while sound proofing is not necessary, think about what else is happening around you and where that sound may carry.
3. Invest in Essential Teaching Tools
While high-end equipment can be enticing, focus on acquiring essential tools that align with your teaching goals. A reliable instrument, a comfortable seating arrangement, and music stands (these have held up for me for years) are fundamental. Look for affordable, yet durable options to equip your studio adequately. Consider used options too!
4. Leverage Online Teaching Platforms
Incorporate online teaching platforms and resources into your studio setup. Utilize video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet for virtual lessons. The CRM system I utilize is multi-functional and comes with free upgraded Zoom capabilities. These platforms are often free or have budget-friendly options, making them a cost-effective way to expand your reach and offer remote lessons.
5. Seek Affordable Instrument Rentals
For students who are just starting, consider recommending affordable instrument rental options. Many music stores offer rental services for various instruments, allowing students to explore their interests without a significant upfront investment. This approach is particularly beneficial for parents who may be hesitant to purchase expensive instruments for beginners.
6. Create DIY Teaching Aids
Enhance your teaching materials with creative do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions. Craft visual aids, flashcards, or simple teaching props (I have a bunch of my favorites listed here) to make lessons more engaging. There are numerous online templates and tutorials that can guide you in creating effective and budget-friendly teaching resources.
7. Collaborate with Other Educators
Connect with fellow music educators and explore collaborative opportunities. Sharing resources like choral scores, lesson plans, or organizing group workshops can help reduce individual costs. Collaborative efforts not only enhance the learning experience but also foster a sense of community among educators, a win-win!
8. Utilize Free Educational Platforms
Take advantage of free educational resources available online. Platforms like musictheory.net, IMSLP, and YouTube offer a wealth of educational content, including music theory lessons, sheet music, and instructional videos. Incorporating these resources into your teaching materials can supplement your lessons or classes in an engaging way without additional expenses.
9. Flexible Furniture Solutions
When it comes to studio furniture, opt for budget-friendly and versatile options. Folding chairs, portable music stands, and storage solutions that serve multiple purposes can help you maximize your budget and adapt your teaching space to different lesson formats. I have a colleague who even has a giant bean bag in his waiting area for students to enjoy while they wait their turn for their lesson. Feel free to have fun with it!
10. Embrace a Gradual Setup Approach
Building a home music teaching studio on a budget is a step-by-step process. Start with the essentials and gradually expand to fit your needs or your style as your student base grows. This approach allows you to invest wisely in response to the evolving needs of your teaching practice.
Creating a budget-friendly home music teaching studio is a fulfilling endeavor that can positively impact the learning experience for both you and your students. By identifying your teaching focus, optimizing your space, and leveraging affordable resources, you can establish a studio that fosters musical growth and creativity without exceeding your budget constraints.
There are a lot of myths about teaching music freelance that I've heard from my coaching clients and others that I am going to debunk in a new blog series, so here it goes. :)
Myths about Teaching Freelance Debunked, Part 1
#1 If I want to teach freelance, I have to teach private lessons.
Nope! I do teach a couple private lessons (currently I only have 4 private students), but that is not the bulk of what I do. Mostly, I teach choirs (3 different groups) and elementary music classes during the day!
#2 If I want to teach private lessons, I have to give up my evenings and weekends.
Also no! All of the lessons I've taught from my home as a self-employed individual have been during the day. Occasionally I'll offer makeup lessons on a Saturday or an evening, but all of my lessons (at one point I had 13 private lesson students) have been during the day. How do I find students to fit this need? Homeschoolers, retired folks, and online students in other time zones are the three easiest ways, in my experience.
#3 Self-employed people pay double taxes.
While I am no tax expert (so don't take my comments as advice, just my own experience!), I have never paid double in taxes because I am self-employed. There are SO MANY things we can deduct by being self-employed that my taxes are no worse than someone who is an employee, and I have free control of my schedule, work part-time with full-time pay, and don't have nearly the amount unnecessary paperwork or meetings as employed people do. To me, the perks are worth it!
If you'd like more budgeting 101 for self-employed music teacher tips, you can grab that here. I'm all about saving you time where I had to learn the long way through living it. :)
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If this was helpful for you and you'd like to stay tuned for part 2, you can join my free group where we talk about this kind of thing all the time. I post the blogs, informative videos, and discount codes to my coaching & courses here.
There are SO MANY method books out there for teaching beginners how to play piano... and there are even video courses and such to learn from home without going to a teacher!
Here's my favorite piano method books for beginners and how I recommend best utilizing it.
1) There are multiple first places to start -- whether you are or have a 5 yo, 10 yo, teenager, or grandma wanting to learn for the first time, there's something for everyone! Most of the beginner books do not have cutesy pictures and diagrams, so they're great for older beginners who don't want to feel like a little kid as well as the young beginner to not have too much "eye clutter" on the page.
2) They have a GREAT transfer guide -- as a piano teacher, this is awesome for those students who've taken a bit of piano but are just starting with me; this helps me place them at a good spot in the method series so that there's a bit of review but not too hard or too easy... like goldilocks, just right!
3) There are so many amazing supplemental books and single pieces by a variety of composers in the community -- these are handy for so much: hooking a kid's interest at the appropriate playing level, honing in on a transfer student's ability before having them buy books, picking something fun for a recital, and more.
4) I really like the approach to introducing the grand staff, various theory concepts, and pacing -- the minimal explanations of various theory concepts that are written on the pages allow me to teach the concept how I want to, which varies sometimes student-to-student so that I can meet their learning style and level of understanding the best way possible. I've also found that my students are MUCH better readers with this method than any other I've used before.
5) They make everything listen-able and sample-able -- I can look at every page in the books if I want to online before purchasing (with parts greyed out, of course)! This is invaluable, as I can have a good look before buying a bunch of books that I don't know will be a good fit for a student. This again allows me to customize my teaching SO well to each individual student.
If you're a potential student, here's how I recommend best using the PP resources: get yourself a good live teacher (not just online video course). Find someone who is friendly and kind (doesn't make you feel silly for asking questions or making mistakes), who makes it fun and motivating for you/your child by seeking to connect the learning with your/their interests (including finding styles of songs you'd like to play), and who starts by reading the staff (not finger numbers or pictures or some other way, unless their is some learning disability present, there are exceptions to this rule of mine!). This will help you move forward better in the long run and play from any music you want to in the future!
If you're in the west Twin Cities metro area MN, I'd love to connect with you about taking lessons in-person, or I also offer limited virtual lessons via Zoom (currently I only offer daytime hours, but if your time zone is different, it may still work!). You can learn more here or message me and I'll get back to you!
