Rock School Proprietor Podcast

41: Jenny Alday-Townsend | An Entrepreneur's Path to Success in Music Education

In this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) speak with Jenny Alday-Townsend, the mastermind behind Music Compound in Sarasota, Florida. In addition to Jenny's work with her studio she is also a best-selling author and a podcast host herself. Jenny shares her journey from real estate to spearheading a booming music school -- a unique and inspiring story, as Jenny is NOT a musician.
In this episode:
Jenny's unique perspective on music education and business strategy, and how she built a 10,000 square foot facility that serving musicians of all ages
How hiring and matching students with instructors is a key to longevity and retention with both staff and students
Finding balance between consistent and flexibility in curriculum
Jenny opens up about personal challenges she's faced and overcame while growing her business, alongside insights on balancing work-life dynamics.
Jenny talks about her passion for masterminding with other music school owners and how these collaborations fuel growth and success in the industry.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned studio owner, this episode offers invaluable advice on turning dreams into reality. Don't miss Jenny's story and her profound impact on the music education industry.
Jenny's links:
FREE Music School Mastermind Group (online) Registration LInk 
Book: Stroke It: A Guide to Strengthening Marital Relationships
Podcast: Stroke It Guide
 
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:

40: Demitris Maddox | Designing Music School Websites That Attract & Convert

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) delve into the essentials of creating a compelling music school website with expert webmaster Demitris Maddox. They discuss key elements like layout, imagery, and content that effectively convert visitors into students.
In this episode:
The unique challenges music teachers face when creating effective websites that convert visitors into students.
Common pitfalls and best practices in web design specifically tailored for music educators.
The significance of photos and strong website copy, SEO, and pricing transparency in enhancing a website's effectiveness.
Comparing pros and cons of various website platforms (WordPress, Impact Builder, Squarespace, Wix) focusing on customization and integration capabilities.
This episode is packed with valuable tips for music teachers looking to elevate their online presence and attract more students.
To view the Impact Builder website templates visit: https://provideimpact.com
To access the FREE website analysis tool provided by Demitris visit https://provideimpact.com/henry
Also mentioned: Episode 27: Capturing Amazing Photos for Marketing Your Music School
 
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:

39: Taming Your 'Nope List' to Delegate Like a Pro

In this engaging episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive into the crucial topic of delegating responsibilities within your music lesson studio.
In this episode:
The 'nope list'—those tasks that studio owners should avoid doing themselves—and how handing off these duties can pave the way for more efficient studio management.
Examining your inner control freak, and recognizing when you might be holding yourself back.
Investing time in training others and determining the things you should do, want to do, and can allow yourself to do as a means to focus on what truly matters for you and your business.
Tune in to learn how mastering delegation can transform your approach to studio management and help you make the most of your time.
 
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:

38: RSP Book Club -- Books to Inspire Music Instructors

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) dive into book recommendations that can benefit music instructors and studio owners alike.
Mandy's Pick: Music and Mind edited by Renee Fleming, featuring an array of essays that delve into the profound connection between music, the brain, and human experience.
John's Pick: Hidden Potential by Adam Grant, which examines the learning process and how to leverage that knowledge to be an effective teacher. Grant even dedicates a chapter to learning music, which offers insights into the learning processes of musicians and the nuances of effective practice.
Each book offers valuable perspectives for educators, providing a deeper understanding of how music enriches lives beyond the classroom.
Don't miss our discussion on how these reads can transform your approach as a music teacher or studio owner, offering fresh insights and practical takeaways. Whether you’re looking to enhance your teaching methods or understand the broader impact of music education, this episode is packed with enlightening content. Join our conversation and consider these books for your next read!
 
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:

37: Can Early Exposure to Music Enhance Ability to Learn?

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss the intriguing connection between early exposure to music and possibly links to ease of learning. They discuss how early experiences with music—as infants and toddlers—can significantly influence a child's ability to grasp new concepts later in life. The conversation explores how music exposure is akin to language development, highlighting the importance of rhythm and pitch practice in early years.
Mandy shares her insights from teaching Music Together, a research-based program, where she observes the developmental stages from infancy through elementary years, and their impact on musical learning.
In this episode:
Breaking down the developmental stages of music learning from birth to elementary school age.
How engaging with pitch and rhythm is essential, and how even older learners can benefit from going back to these basics.
The importance of viewing music as a language, and drawing parrallels to other language learning.
Through anecdotes and research, John and Mandy examine why some students seem inherently easier to teach and how foundational musical practices at home can set the stage for successful music lessons later on.
 
Click here to Watch Victor Wooten's Ted Talk, Music as a Language
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:

36: Tim Topham | From Tradition to Innovation -- Teaching Music Differently

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) is joined by Tim Topham, a pioneer in music education and the founder of Top Music. Tim shares his insights on a student-focused approach to teaching music, emphasizing the importance of playing music first and reading second.
In this episode:
The evolution of music education from more traditional to modern strategies.
Highlighting the value of community and collaboration in taking a more holistic approach to music lessons.
Moving beyond traditional method to focus on creativity and intuition.
Marketing strategies that focus on social aspects for students.
Tim's No Book Beginners approach to piano.
Tim Topham's Podcast: The TopCast with Tim Topham
For all of Tim's resources for music teachers visit TopMusic.co
Mentioned in this episode:
Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Music Instructors: What They Can Learn From One Another
Prioritize Playing Over Teaching in Private Lessons
BONUS: The Unbelievable Five-Day ChatGPT Experiment
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:

35: Is Reading Music Necessary to Play Music?

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) engage in a spirited debate on the necessity of teaching note reading in today's world. They explore their differing musical backgrounds and ponder whether reading music is essential for students or if playing by ear and leveraging modern technology replace the need for note reading.
In this episode:
historical perspectives of reading music and the evolution of music education
how icons like The Beatles and Pavarotti found success without reading music
why reading rhythms is universal and may be more important than reading notes on the staff
Finally, they discuss the implications for music educators and students alike, striving to find a balance between maintaining the art of reading music and embracing new teaching techniques.
Click this link to sign up for Danny Thompson's FREE Music School Marketing Newsletter!
 
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:

34: Chris Bates | The Power of Mindset and Strategic Planning

On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com welcomes friend and entrepreneur Chris Bates (Teacher Zone) for an insightful discussion on mindset and strategic planning. With rich experience in multiple industries, and co-owning Los Rios Rock School, Chris brings valuable insights into the world of business in the arts.
Listen as John and Chris discuss how mindset can impact success, the balance between working in and on your business, and how aligning your personal goals with your business aspirations can lead to genuine fulfillment. Drawing from personal stories and key lessons, they explore the importance of strategic planning and practical steps toward scaling your music lesson business while maintaining your passion and love for music.
Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration to craft a business and life you never want to retire from!
 
Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.
Download FREE resources for instructors and studio owners at RockSchoolProprietor.com
 
Episode Transcript:

33: Future-Proofing Music Lessons in the Age of AI

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) explore the concept of future-proofing music lessons, ensuring they offer more value than readily available online resources like YouTube tutorials, and the prospective threat of AI-driven music instruction.
In this philosophical discussion, John reads from his 'manifesto' about the impact of social media, AI, and the abundance of online information on traditional music lessons. Mandy and John discuss how music instructors can adapt by highlighting the irreplaceable human connection, emotional depth, and sense of community that in-person lessons provide.
Through the lens of music's magic and the importance of shared experiences, this episode challenges instructors to emphasize the emotional and social benefits of music, encouraging them to market these unique aspects effectively. John and Mandy share how to stay relevant and thrive in an AI-enhanced future.
 
Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.
 
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32: Q&A Episode | Getting Better Results in Groups & Bands

In this insightful episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) tackle a common challenge faced by studios offering rock band programs: managing young rock band programs effectively. Responding to a listener's question about improving results from groups and instructors, John and Mandy share practical strategies to ensure a successful band program, particularly for younger students aged 9 to 12.
In this episode:
the importance of structured rehearsal routines
effective communication among instructors
setting clear expectations for both instructors and students
the significance of documenting processes
providing supportive training for band coaches to maintain consistency and quality across studio programs
Tune in to discover actionable insights that can help studio owners empower their instructors and create an engaging, productive environment for young musicians.
Also check out: Episode 28: Mastering Behavior Management in Group Music Classes
 
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: