Rock School Proprietor Podcast

30: Inside Look at Why Parents Pull Kids from Music Lessons Feb 19, 2025

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive into the common issue of parents withdrawing their children from music lessons due to a lack of practice. They explore alternative ways to measure success beyond just practice hours, emphasizing the joy and engagement in music as key indicators.

The hosts discuss real-life anecdotes and the importance of understanding each child's individual learning journey. They highlight the need to communicate effectively with parents and redefine what counts as practice in the realm of music education.

For additional tips on talking with parents about practice, and how to take the focus off practice as the sole metric of success, check out Episode 4: What "counts" as practice? Redefining practice In music lessons

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

29: Dave Simon | Revisiting the 'Practice Problem' & Rethinking Music Lessons Feb 12, 2025

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dave Simon, known for his podcast "Music Lessons and Marketing" and innovative music programs.

In this episode:

Explore the concept of the "practice problem," which challenges the traditional focus on practice as the sole measure of success in music lessons for children.
How to reframe the concept of practice in music lessons to effectively keep students engaged
Understanding parent expectations and how to effectively guide them to success in your studio
Dave shares insight on developing and effectively delivering licensed curriculum programs

Dive into the insights Dave shares from his extensive experience working with lesson studio owners and discover the common traits of successful music schools. Gain a new perspective on how group learning and a focus on fun can enhance the musical journey of young learners.

This episode ignites a dialogue on the importance of reframing the practice narrative to motivate students and satisfy parents, ultimately fostering a lifelong love for music.

Referenced in this episode:

More info about Dave Simon at https://davesimonsmusic.com/

Dave and John talk more on a recent episode of Dave's podcast Music Lessons and Marketing here: Bridging the Gap Between Rock and Classical Music Education with John Kozicki: Ep 245

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

28: Mastering Behavior Management in Group Music Classes Feb 05, 2025

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) delve into the complexities of managing behavior in group music classes. John and Mandy share their experiences and discuss effective strategies for different age groups, from preschool to high school.

Mandy talks about her experiences teaching mixed-age music classes and rhythm kids, highlighting the unique challenges and joys of working with various age groups. From setting expectations and establishing routines to employing different engagement techniques, they explore how to create an environment where children not only learn but also enjoy.

Also in this episode:

Strategies for keeping kids engaged during group classes
How a routine and repetition can help set expectations in groups
Balancing goals set by instructors with a fun environment, and leveraging rewards to achieve goals.
Ways to address negative behavior when it escalates.
Strategies John and Mandy have found effective in maintaining a productive and enjoyable classroom environment.

John and Mandy share valuable tips on behavior management in music education so you can learn how to connect better with young musicians, and ensure your classes are both fun and fulfilling for everyone involved.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

27: Capturing Amazing Photos for Marketing Your Music School Jan 29, 2025

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss marketing your lesson studio through photography. They explore how having high-quality, authentic photos can elevate the appeal of your music school across social media, websites, and other marketing channels.

In this episode:

How to find the right photographer to fit your music school's brand
What you can expect to pay for a great photographer, or how you might be able to get one for free
Ways that the investment in great photos can pay off and the many ways you can use photos in marketing, branding, and even to get positive reviews of your lesson studio.

John and Mandy emphasize the importance of capturing candid and genuine moments that represent the diversity and vibrance of music classes, explaining the impact of these visuals on potential clients. They offer insights into finding the right photographer, whether through trades or hiring, and share tips on maximizing the use of photos in studio decoration, online presence, and beyond.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

26: Greg Hipskind | Building a Rock-Solid Culture Jan 22, 2025

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) talk with Greg Hipskind of QC Rock Academy. With a roster of to 400 students, Greg's lesson studio has become a beacon of music education excellence in the Quad Cities area of Iowa. With an emphasis on performance opportunities and fostering real-life music experiences, Greg has cultivated a thriving culture at QC Rock Academy.

In this episode:

How Greg has created a culture centered around live performance, and connected with venues in the community to be front-of-mind for student performers
How participation in QC Rock Academy's band program increases student retention significantly, and how that culture helps him retain employees
His unique tactic of hosting talks and clinics with touring musicians, and the positive impact that has on the student experience
Greg also shares how a typical student could progress through his school from beginner to playing in one QC Rock Academy's performance bands.

The episode also explores how Greg cultivates a community network, making QC Rock Academy the go-to resource for performances at local events, and his approach to teaching students the ins and outs of being professional musicians. Don't miss this insightful conversation that sheds light on creating a vibrant, engaging, and sustainable music school environment.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

25: When Success Becomes a Challenge -- Handling Overbooked Classes Jan 15, 2025

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) work through a challenge Mandy is currently facing in her studio: what to do when your classes are fully booked and there's still high demand for enrollment. Mandy shares her unique predicament as she starts a new semester with her music classes entirely filled, leaving her to ponder the next steps for accommodating eager students.

In this episode:

Possible strategies when to meet additional demand, like creating new classes, hiring additional instructors, or even opening another location
More creative solutions that could would with few demands on Mandy's time like offering special drop-in classes or themed sessions to keep prospective students engaged and interested
The emotional aspects of managing a these situations, and practical tips and insights into expanding offerings without compromising personal capacity or the quality of service.

Find out how John and Mandy navigate these waters and share valuable advice on sustaining demand, managing customer expectations, and possibly using scarcity as a strategic advantage. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive in the educational or creative service industries.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

24: Mike Grande | TikTok Shop & Diversifying the Lesson Business Jan 08, 2025

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, host John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) is joined by the Mike Grande, owner of three music schools and founder of the Rock Out Loud Live online lesson platform. Mike shares his some of his many strategies to diversifiy in the music lesson and related businesses including:

Leveraging TikTok and the TikTok Shop to significantly boost sales of his music lesson-related products
The nuances involved in creating and selling products through you music lesson business
Delegating and building a team that thrives on autonomy and creativity
Embracing new opportunities when the arise, and identifying your unique selling proposition.

Mike's strategies reveal how to transform creative ideas into profitable ventures. Tune in for inspiring advice and practical tips on achieving financial freedom and successfully diversifying your music lesson business.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

23: Setting and Achieving Goals in Your Lesson Business for 2025 Jan 01, 2025

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) talk about goal setting for the new year. They share insightful strategies and templates that studio owners and instructors can use to set and achieve their objectives for 2025.

In this episode:

The benefits of physically writing down your goals, and how we are statistically much more likely to NOT achieve the goals when we fail to write them down.
How to categorize goals in your music lesson studio to include both business as personal goals.
Strategies to plan our the steps to reach your goals.

John and Mandy also discuss the power of visualization, setting specific targets, and staying accountable. They share practical advice on how to break down big goals into manageable steps and the value of prioritizing objectives. Tune in for actionable tips and tricks to ensure your 2025 goals are not just set but accomplished. Plus, find out how a strategic approach can help balance both professional and personal aspirations.

Download your 2025 Studio Goal Planning Guide here!

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

22: Making Smart Choices when Hiring for Your Music Studio Dec 25, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) delve into one of the most daunting tasks for music studio owners: hiring instructors and staff.

In this episode:

why anxiety and urgency influence the hiring process and how you can overcome these challenges
the importance of having a documented process that can ease the hiring burden
How employee training processes can make hiring easier or less stressful
Internal recruitment for hiring and training student instructors
Personality can be as important, if not more important than skill-set when hiring the right instructor or staff member for you music lesson studio.

John and Mandy share personal experiences and ways to ease the hiring burden. They explore how to handle the complexities of hiring, including understanding what to look for in a candidate and how to develop a successful onboarding process. This episode offers valuable advice to help you build a strong, cohesive team for your music lesson studio.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

21: Q&A Episode | How to Shift From Private Lessons to Group Classes Dec 18, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) answer a question from a fellow studio owner: how to successfully shift from offering mostly private lessons to offering and filling group classes.

Fellow studio owner, Alex, has found it difficult to fill group classes in his primarily private lesson environment. Mandy and John share insights and strategies to shift to a more group-oriented model, and highlight some of the unique benefits of group learning that are often overlooked.

In this episode:

Marketing techniques to highlight benefits of group classes
Pricing strategies when a studio offers both private lessons and group classes
Differentiating group learning from private, one-on-one lessons
Creating a structured timeline as a benefit for group classes.
The importance of training instructors for group settings, setting realistic enrollment expectations, and providing incentives for teachers.

Mandy offers valuable advice from her experience running a group-based music studio, and John provides a detailed analysis of Alex's situation to offer practical solutions and encouragement for other studio owners facing similar challenges.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

20: Rob Spampinato | Success with In-Person Studio, YouTube channel, and Online Courses Dec 11, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford), speak with Rob Spampinato of Rob's School of Music in Suffern, NY. In addition to Rob's brick-and-mortar lesson studio, he also has a very successful YouTube channel, Instragram account, and book -- This Book Shreds. Rob delves into how he skillfully juggles his various roles while maintaining a successful hybrid business model, effectively merging his brick-and-mortar music school with his expansive online reach.

In this episode:

Rob's journey from his early days starting a music studio within a local music store to achieving 150,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel
Rob's YouTube and online courses, and building a brand around his own personality
Balancing social media and online personas with an in-person studio
Rob's band program and Rob's School of Music
Finding work/life balance, time management, and advice for other studio owners

Join hosts John Kozicki and Mandy York as they discuss with Rob Spampinato the importance of adaptation and consistency in the music education industry, exploring the dynamic interplay between personal passion and professional growth.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

19: Managing Expectations Keeping Student Goals In Mind Dec 04, 2024

On this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss how our own expectations of students aren't always their expectations. Reflecting on their own experiences as "weird" students, they challenge the assumption that every student learns the same way, and how most students do NOT think about private lessons like we (instructors) did as students ourselves.

In this episode:

Educating parents and instructors on what to expect from their students, and advocating for the student's goals.
Aligning those expectations for the student's success
We (instructors) were likely the "star" student, and our experiences as students were not the norm, so we can't rely on them
Accountability in learning and managing expectations for progress (or lack of progress).

John and Mandy explore the importance of understanding diverse student motivations and how varied expectations can impact both teaching and learning. Through engaging dialogue, they discuss why aligning expectations among students, parents, and instructors is crucial and share effective strategies to motivate and enrich every student's progress in learning music.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

18: Why Music Lessons Are Losing to Sports Nov 27, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) delve into the pressing issue of why music lessons are often overshadowed by sports. They discuss the common reasons students leave music lessons for sports and the unique benefits sports offer, such as teamwork, social skills, and physical health.

John and Mandy explore the challenges music instructors face in retaining students and propose innovative solutions to counteract these issues. They emphasize the importance of creating a sense of community and collaboration in music programs, akin to the team spirit in sports, to enhance student engagement and retention.

Join the conversation as they share personal experiences, insights, and practical strategies to make music lessons more appealing and resilient against the lure of sports, ensuring that the joy and benefits of music remain a vibrant part of students' lives.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

17: Sam Reti | AI and the Future of Music Lessons Nov 20, 2024

In this episode Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) are joined by Sam Reddy, founder of Muzie.live, to explore the transformative potential of AI in music education. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of music lessons, examining whether AI could eventually replace traditional instructors or serve as a powerful assistant.

Sam shares insights into how AI can enhance teaching platforms like Muzie.live, offering features such as high-fidelity online lessons, hybrid teaching capabilities, and AI-driven note-taking. The discussion touches on the progression from guitar tabs to YouTube tutorials, and how AI could be the next step in making music education more accessible and personalized.

The episode also explores the role of AI as a tool for teachers, helping them adapt to technological advancements while maintaining the human connection essential in music education. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the balance between embracing AI innovations and preserving the essence of music instruction.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

16: Unlocking the Secrets of Licensed Curriculum for Music Studios Nov 13, 2024

In this enlightening episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive deep into the world of licensed curriculum for music studios. Mandy shares her extensive experience, having built her entire studio around a licensed program, and offers valuable insights on everything from costs and training to marketing assets.

Join the discussion as John and Mandy explore the pros and cons of adopting a licensed curriculum, the importance of brand identity, and the benefits of having a supportive network. They address common concerns like fee structures, instructor training, and the balance between using provided materials and adding a personal touch.

In this episode:

John and Mandy’s individual experiences with licensed curriculum. John with Kidz Rock and Mandy with Music Together.
Analyzing the fee structure of licensed curriculums
The important and nuanced element of training included with licensed curriculums
Marketing assets, resources, and strategies

Whether you're considering implementing a licensed curriculum or just curious about how it could enhance your studio, this episode is packed with tips and advice to guide your decision-making process. Discover how to leverage licensed programs to solve common challenges and elevate your music education offerings.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

15: Should You Offer a Free Trial Lesson? A Balanced Perspective Nov 06, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss the topic of offering free trial lessons or demo classes. They explore whether this strategy is beneficial for music studios and examine it from both the studio owner and the parent/student perspectives.

The episode kicks off with a discussion on the primary reasons studios might consider offering free trials: as a tactic to attract more students and fill up schedules. John and Mandy weigh the pros and cons of this approach and share personal experiences from their own studios.

From the parent's viewpoint, they discuss the appeal of free trials as a way to lower the risk of committing to lessons, particularly for those unsure if their child will enjoy music lessons. However, John argues that a free trial lesson may simply delay the risk instead of truly informing the parent about the child's interest and commitment.

The hosts also offer alternative strategies to free trials, such as offering studio tours, discounted rates for longer commitments, and integrating new students into established classes to give them a sense of the studio's culture and community.

Finally, John and Mandy emphasize the importance of evaluating whether a free trial strategy aligns with a studio's goals and suggest ways to make it work effectively for both the studio and the prospective students.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

14: Danny Thompson | Delivering Amazing Online Music Lessons Part 2 Oct 30, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) talk with Danny Thompson, a seasoned music lesson business owner from Music Factory in Orange County, California. This is part 2 of our conversation, in which Danny discusses the evolution of online music lessons from clunky Skype sessions to utilizing specialized platforms like Muzie.Live, designed specifically for music lessons.

In this episode:

Leveraging new technology for online music lessons
Adapting instructor strategies for online teaching
Choosing the right platform for online music lessons
Differentiating student expectations and experiences in the online model

The conversation explores the challenges of changing perceptions about online lessons, educating parents and students about their benefits, and the critical role of technology in overcoming traditional teaching limitations. Danny also provides valuable advice for instructors looking to improve their online teaching techniques and the importance of having a structured lesson plan.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

13: Danny Thompson | Shifting to Online Music Lessons Part 1 Oct 23, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) talk with Danny Thompson, a seasoned music lesson business owner from Music Factory in Orange County, California. Known for his insightful podcast, Music Lesson Business Academy, Danny shares his extensive experience of over 20 years in the music industry.

In this episode:

Shifting to online lessons during the pandemic
Danny's decision to continue with the online private lesson model
Changing your business model to fit your personal lifestyle
Music lessons as a commodity.

In Part 2 Danny will reveal how he creates an exceptional online lesson experience and addresses the marketing challenges and strategies of the virtual format.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

12: Can Studio Policies Enhance Culture and Expectations for Music Lessons? Oct 16, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive deep into the topic of studio policies.

In this episode:

Mandy shares her insights on how policies are essential for shaping and enhancing the culture of your studio.
The importance of using policies to establish clear expectations for both families and students
How to be an authority without an being authoritarian.
The challenges of updating policies for effective change
How to handle difficult conversations with parents who push back.

Tune in to learn practical tips on how to communicate your policies effectively, ensure they are respected, and use them to build a professional and thriving studio environment.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

11: Battling Burnout: Strategies for Music School Owners Oct 09, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) tackle the topic of burnout, specifically burnout in running your music school. They discuss how it happens and strategies to overcome it.

In this episode:

John and Mandy share their personal stories and insights
Why those working in the arts, such as music instructors and studio owners, might be more susceptible to burnout compared to other professions.
John and Mandy compare their experiences in the corporate world to self-employment
Strategies for dealing with burnout, including the importance of remembering your 'why,' practicing gratitude, seeking collaboration, and taking breaks.
John and Mandy also emphasize the value of talking it out with peers and focusing on the positives to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

10: Prioritize Playing Over Teaching in Private Lessons Oct 02, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss the importance of making the act of playing music a central focus in private lessons, rather than just teaching and learning new concepts.

We discuss the common pitfalls that can cause the essence of playing music to get lost, from the pressures instructors feel to constantly provide new material, to the routines that can become too focused on mechanical learning. Mandy shares her personal experience of learning the ukulele, illustrating how finding enjoyable repertoire can reignite the joy of playing.

We also provide practical tips for instructors to bring the joy of making music back into their lessons. These include playing music together with students, choosing the right repertoire, and incorporating peer-to-peer band programs. By the end of this episode, you'll have a fresh perspective on how to balance technical learning with the sheer enjoyment of making music.

Join us for an insightful conversation that aims to transform your approach to music instruction and bring back the fun and creativity that lies at the heart of musical education.

Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

Episode Transcript:

9: Productivity Hacks for Music School Owners Sep 25, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss productivity for music school owners and teachers. They kick off with an exciting announcement about their new private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

John and Mandy discuss the essence of productivity, especially for the self-employed, highlighting the importance of self-accountability, time management, and setting personal goals. They share personal anecdotes and strategies, from using weekly planners and semester planners to adopting robust database systems that streamline administrative tasks.

John introduces his time-blocking method, which helps alleviate decision fatigue by organizing tasks into 15-minute increments throughout the week. Mandy shares her approach of maintaining a comprehensive weekly planner and semester planner to stay on top of her responsibilities and delegate tasks effectively.

In this episode:

Productivity and Self-Accountability
Decision Fatigue
Tools for organization
Strategies for balancing tasks and setting deadlines

Listen in for practical tips, real-life experiences, and productivity hacks that can help you maintain balance, stay organized, and ensure the smooth running of your music school. Don't forget to visit their website for a FREE downloadable time-blocking schedule template and other resources!

Episode Transcript:

8: Rock Bands for Dummies: How to Start and Grow a Band Program Sep 18, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive deep into the world of rock band programs. Whether you run a rock school format or are curious about expanding into band programs, this episode has got you covered.

John and Mandy explore the rock band model, discussing its benefits, especially in terms of student retention and motivation. Mandy takes the reins, asking the essential questions every music studio owner might have, from getting started to choosing the right repertoire and equipment.

In this episode:

The benefits of a band program and students playing as a group
Steps to starting a band program
Practical formula for a monthly band program
Growing and transitioning to a weekly band plus lessons program
Strategies to group students based on age and skill level

John shares a step-by-step formula for launching a successful rock band program in any studio, and creating a thriving community centered on playing music.

Don't miss out on the FREE downloadable guide, How to Start (or Grow) a Rock Band Program In Your Music Lesson Studio, available at rockschoolproprietor.com, which includes song suggestions and practical steps to get your rock band program off the ground.

Episode Transcript:

7: Mastering Music School Marketing with Adam Wilson - Part 2: Your Marketing Plan Sep 11, 2024

This is part 2 of a 2 part conversation on marketing with Adam Wilson.

In this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) has an engaging conversation with Adam Wilson, co-founder of the boutique advertising agency, D/Cal. This is part two of my conversation with Adam, and in this episode Adam shares valuable advice for business owners and music schools on developing a marketing strategy and practical social media tips.

We discuss the evolution of marketing messages in the music education space, the importance of understanding your brand's core values, and how to effectively communicate these to your target audience. Adam emphasizes the significance of having a clear 'why' behind your brand, which can guide all your marketing decisions.

Additionally, Adam provides actionable steps for creating a consistent brand identity, from logo design to social media content. Whether you're a solo music instructor or running a music school, this episode is packed with insights to help you refine your marketing efforts and connect better with your audience.

In this episode:

Essentials for developing your brand
Understanding your audience
Social media strategy insights and simplifying content creation
Finding your brand's Why, and using it in your marketing

If you haven't listened to part 1, we highly recommend doing so for additional context. Tune in to learn how to elevate your music school’s marketing game!

Episode Transcript:

6: Mastering Music School Marketing with Adam Wilson - Part 1: Building your Brand Sep 04, 2024

This is part 1 of a 2 part conversation on marketing with Adam Wilson.

In this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) has an engaging conversation with Adam Wilson, co-founder of the boutique advertising agency, D/Cal. Adam's portfolio includes work for global brands like Gibson, Carhartt, and Wolverine Boots. Adam founded D/Cal with skateboard legend and entrepreneur Tony Hawk, which brings a unique perspective to understanding target markets and subcultures.

With over 25 years of experience, Adam shares invaluable insights into the conceptual aspects of marketing, including brand building, logos, and colors, in part one of our discussion. Even if you don't have a marketing background, Adam's explanations are clear and informative. In part two, he offers practical advice that music lesson businesses can readily apply.

We delve into the importance of understanding your audience, crafting effective messaging, and distinguishing between branding and marketing. Adam also emphasizes the emotional connection and consumer empathy crucial for any successful brand. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you elevate your music school’s marketing strategy.

In this episode:

Understanding marketing and branding, and the differences between the terms
Exploring brand identity
How emotional connection guides both your brand identity and consumer purchasing habits
Creative messaging for music schools and lesson businesses

In Part 2, Adam and John discuss practical applications for music school, as well as a usable social media strategy.

Episode Transcript:

5: Discovering Your Why: The key to marketing, culture, and studio growth. Aug 28, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and co-host Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive deep into the importance of discovering your "why" in your music lesson business. They discuss how to find your why, articulate it, and use it to fuel your passion and drive. Whether you're a music instructor or a studio owner, understanding your why can help you stay motivated, connect with your students, and build a successful and fulfilling music school.

John and Mandy share personal stories, including the transformative power of group music-making experiences and the unique role music plays in connecting people. They also offer practical advice on how to uncover your why by reflecting on meaningful experiences and asking others for feedback.

In this episode:

Discovering your Why in your lesson studio
How your own Why becomes contagious and attracts students, families, and employees
Using your Why to connect with students and families
How personal stories can uncover your purpose
Ways to use your Why in your marketing and studio culture

For additional resources or to connect with us, visit RockSchoolProprietor.com.

Episode Transcript:

4: What "counts" as practice? Redefining practice in music lessons Aug 21, 2024

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive into the often contentious topic of music practice. They challenge the traditional time-based practice recommendations and introduce a more balanced approach that defines two categories -- skill development and experiential practice.

John and Mandy explore how different types of practice can foster creativity, maintain student interest, and prevent burnout. They discuss the importance of incorporating both skill-building exercises and activities that bring inspiration to the student. From playing old favorites to exploring new genres, this episode is filled with practical advice for music educators and parents alike.

In this episode:

Redefining practice for students, parents, and instructors
Skill-Development practice
Experience practice
What "counts" as practice
Balancing the different categories to maximize student engagement

Plus, you can download a special guide and worksheet to help redefine practice in your own music studio. Visit https://rockschoolproprietor.com/resources/ to access the guide for free!

3: Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Music Instructors: What they can learn from one another Aug 14, 2024

Join John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School & RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) as they dive into the art of teaching music by exploring the balance between traditional and non-traditional approaches. Discover the pros and cons of each method, and meet the ultimate music instructor avatar, Steve Connolly, who embodies the best of both worlds.

In this episode:

Defining a “Traditional” Music Instructor Avatar (Mrs. Connely the piano teacher)
Defining a “Non Traditional” Music Instructor Avatar (Steve the guitar teacher)
Pros and cons of each approach
The sweet spot is in the middle of these two opposite approaches.
What could Mrs. Connely do to move closer to the center?
What could Steve the guitar teacher do to move closer to the center?

2: Are parents the REAL students in music lessons? Aug 07, 2024

n this episode, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School, RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) delve into a unique perspective on music education: teaching the parents. John shares his 20-year journey in rock band programs and Mandy discusses her Music Together center, where the focus is on involving caregivers in early childhood music education.

Listen in as they explore the idea of educating parents about expectations, and how their involvement and understanding can significantly impact a child's musical journey. From building confidence in young learners to creating a family-friendly learning environment, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice for music educators and parents alike.

Whether you're a studio owner, instructor, or a parent wanting to understand more about your child's musical education, this conversation is sure to provide valuable takeaways. Join us as we uncover the magic that happens when parents and educators work together to foster a love for music in children.

In this episode:

Why it is important to educate parents and families in music lesson studios
Mandy explains why parents are the real students in Music Together
How Mandy teaches the parents in her music lesson studio
John explains how he educates parents on expectations of private lessons and how they may not be right for all kids
How John teaches parents that ability to read music shouldn’t be the top metric in measuring success in music lessons
Where confidence grows as students learn to play an instrument
The benefits gained by studio owners when they educate parents about music lessons.

1: Harmonizing Differences: Building a Music School Culture Jul 31, 2024

Welcome to the Rock School Proprietor Podcast! In this episode, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive into the core philosophies that shape their music schools. John, who runs a rock school, and Mandy, who manages an early childhood music center, explore how their vastly different backgrounds contribute to a shared passion for music education.

John and Mandy share personal stories from their early music experiences that have influenced their teaching philosophies. John recounts his challenging piano lessons as a child and how they shaped his approach to making music enjoyable for his students. Mandy discusses the joy of discovering the Music Together program with her children and how it revolutionized her understanding of early childhood music education.

Together, they emphasize the importance of creating a positive and engaging music culture in their schools. They discuss the significance of understanding and communicating their core beliefs to build a community that resonates with both instructors and families. John and Mandy also offer practical advice for other music school owners and instructors on finding and sharing their authentic stories to enhance their teaching practices.

Join John and Mandy as they harmonize their differences to create a richer, more inclusive music education experience for everyone involved.

Rock School Proprietor Trailer Jun 20, 2024

Join John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School, RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) with a glimpse of what music instructors and music lesson business owners can expect from their conversations on the Rock School Proprietor Podcast!

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