Music Lessons and Marketing

This episode flips the script on summer slumps for music school owners. Learn how to transform your sales conversations into insight-driven marketing gold. Discover how to shift your message, methods, and mindset to meet families where they are this season—and turn summer into your most magnetic offer yet.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, we flip the script on sales. Discover how to turn your music school enrollment calls into powerful marketing tools—without ever feeling pushy. Learn how to sell the transformation, ask the right questions, and build trust that lasts beyond the first lesson.   davesimonsmusic.com

Are you stuck in the daily grind of running your music school—answering emails, fixing schedules, solving problems? In this episode, Dave challenges the idea that more hustle equals more growth. Learn why doing less—and thinking bigger—is the smartest move you can make. We'll unpack the power of strategic thinking, how to build your “War Room” routine, and why vision work is your true job as a school owner.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave uncovers what baseball, Banana Ball, and your music school's marketing have in common. Learn how reimagining tradition and listening to sales calls can spark marketing gold—while keeping students (and their parents) obsessed with your program. Key takeaways include:   How to identify and eliminate friction in your lessons Why group classes can feel like premium experiences The power of rethinking your approach to music education And how your sales conversations can be the secret sauce to better marketing!   Tune in and learn how to take your music school's marketing to the next level!   davesimonsmusic.com

Running a music school without business knowledge can feel like composing a symphony without knowing how to read music. In this episode, we break down the three essential pillars of business growth that every music school owner needs to master—without spending hours buried in textbooks. Here's what you'll learn: The 3 essential daily habits that will help you scale your music school with confidence. How AI tools like ChatGPT and Notebook LM can fast-track your business learning. A smarter way to absorb key business concepts—without reading endless books. How to turn knowledge into actionable strategies that fuel long-term success. Tune in now and start building a music school that thrives!   davesimonsmusic.com  

AI is changing the way music schools operate, but is it a friend or a threat? In this episode, Dave breaks down how AI can help you save time, market smarter, and make better business decisions—without losing the personal touch that makes your school unique.   Key Takeaways: How AI can handle the busywork so you can do what you love—teaching music. The secret to using AI in your marketing—so students come to you (without the extra hustle). How AI can size up your competition and help your music school stand out. Writing scroll-stopping sales copy and Facebook ads in seconds—no stress, no overthinking. Why AI will never replace human connection—but it can make it even stronger.   Tune in now and discover how AI can be your most powerful business partner.   davesimonsmusic.com

What if your music school wasn't just a business, but a life-changing community? In this episode, we explore how small, thoughtful gestures turn everyday interactions into lasting connections. Learn how generosity can grow your music school, deepen relationships, and create raving fans — all without a big marketing budget.   davesimonsmusic.com

Unlock the true potential of your music school with the power of a well-crafted mission statement. In this episode, Dave explores why a mission statement is more than just words on paper—it's your school's compass for growth, unity, and purpose. Learn how to write a statement that reflects your vision, guides decisions, and inspires everyone who walks through your doors.   davesimonsmusic.com  

Learn how your sales calls can supercharge your music school marketing! In this episode, discover how real-time conversations reveal the exact words and emotions that resonate with parents. Use their hopes, dreams, and objections to refine your messaging and create more impactful marketing campaigns.   davesimonsmusic.com

What can music school owners learn from the Super Bowl? A lot more than you think! In this episode, we break down how the NFL creates unforgettable experiences and how you can apply those same strategies to your recitals. Learn how to build excitement, create meaningful traditions, and turn your events into can't-miss experiences that boost retention and engagement.   davesimonsmusic.com

Struggling to get results from your Facebook ads? In this episode, digital marketing expert Ray Kirsch shares proven strategies to help music school owners create high-performing ad campaigns. Learn how to refine your targeting, craft compelling offers, optimize your landing pages, and track performance for better ROI. Discover how to turn your ads into student enrollment machines today.   davesimonsmusic.com

This episode features John Kozicki of the podcast Rock School Proprietor, which explores fresh insights into music education. John and his co-host, Mandy York, bridge the gap between classical and rock-based teaching, discussing how to balance technique with creativity, guide parents through the learning process, and make practice more engaging.  davesimonsmusic.com    

Why aren't your social media posts getting the engagement you hoped for? In this episode, Sara Campbell uncover the top three mistakes music schools often make on platforms like Facebook and Instagram—and, more importantly, how to fix them. From the pitfalls of overly promotional content to the missed opportunities of “set it and forget it” posting, we'll walk you through actionable strategies to level up your social media game. Plus, discover why asking for reviews is a must and how to make storytelling the secret ingredient in your marketing. If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and start seeing results from your social media efforts, this episode is for you! davesimonsmusic.com   

Adding a new revenue stream can transform your business, as shown by Lauren Bateman's success with her online guitar course, the 7 Level Guitar System, which has generated over $2.5 million in sales through YouTube. Diversification offers financial security and growth opportunities but requires careful market research to avoid costly missteps. Lauren's journey highlights the importance of validating ideas, leveraging social media, and committing time and effort. With the right strategy and preparation, introducing new revenue streams can unlock extraordinary results for your business.

As music school owners, we often turn to each other for advice and strategies—but what if the best ideas for growing your business came from outside the music world? In this episode, I share my own experience of learning from different industries, from hair salons to dance studios, and how these insights helped elevate my music school.   We'll talk about the importance of creating low-barrier entry points for students, and I'll introduce today's guest, Misty Lown, a leader in the dance world who's mastered the art of positive first experiences. Tune in to discover how stepping outside the music education bubble can bring fresh ideas and new growth to your school.   Key Takeaways:   How to learn from industries outside of music The value of a positive first experience for students Insights from Misty Lown on creating a successful studio program   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave dives into crafting memorable stories that fuel word-of-mouth marketing for your music school. Learn how to create standout moments beyond the lesson room that make your clients excited to share. Tune in to hear inspiring real-world examples and practical tips to boost your school's reputation.   davesimonsmusic.com

In Episode 239, Dave dives into the success stories behind the Kidzrock program with music school owner John Kozicki. Why do some schools thrive while others falter with group classes? This episode uncovers the crucial role that marketing, mindset, and instructor selection play in filling group classes and driving revenue.   Whether you're already running group classes or considering adding them to your offerings, you'll gain actionable insights that will make them a core part of your music school's success. Learn how to effectively market your group classes, educate parents, and create a passionate, belief-driven culture that resonates with both staff and students.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave explores why many music schools fail to maximize Instagram's potential. Discover practical tips to engage your audience, create shareable content, and turn your social media strategy into a lead-generating machine. Don't miss this essential guide to transforming your Instagram feed from a passive newsletter into a dynamic tool for growth!   davesimonsmusic.com

Explore why some music schools succeed with group programs like Kidzrock and others don't. Join Dave Simon and Kelly Bennett, from Valencia School of Music, dive into top marketing strategies, effective parent communication, and practical advice for launching and maintaining Kidzrock programs. Whether you're a music school owner or instructor, this episode is packed with insights to help you elevate your group classes. Tune in and learn how to make your music school stand out!   davesimonmusic.com

In this episode, Dave delves into the surprising power of using pain in marketing. Discover how this strategy can capture attention, build trust, and drive sales. Learn from real-world examples and get practical tips for applying this technique in your marketing and sales calls. Don't miss these valuable insights to enhance your music school's marketing effectiveness!   davesimonsmusic.com

In today's episode, we're gearing up for an exciting webinar titled “The Number One Way to Fill Your Group Classes,” happening on July 11th at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time. If you haven't reserved your spot yet, now is the perfect time! Can't make it? No worries—replay will be available. Sign up at davesimonsmusic.com/webinar. Key Points Covered: No Paid Ads Needed: Learn how phone calls and emails can effectively fill your group classes without the need for paid advertising. Parental Perception: Understand how parents' past experiences with private lessons influence their decisions and how to leverage this in your marketing. Value Explanation: Discover the importance of clearly explaining the benefits and value of your group classes to parents. Overcoming Risks: Learn strategies to make unfamiliar group classes feel like a safe and valuable choice for parents. Sales Training Role Play: Hear a role play of a sales call for programs like Kidzrock, Jr. Rockerz, and Piano Jam, complete with commentary and strategy breakdowns. Building Relationships: Explore how to build rapport, trust, and present yourself as a likable expert to foster long-term relationships with new families. Sales Framework (RPCO): Get a simple outline for any sales call—Reveal, Present, Close, Objections (RPCO)—and tips for handling objections effectively. Listen in as we dive into the nuances of selling group classes and how to position them as the best choice for parents and their children. Don't forget to sign up for the webinar to learn more in-depth strategies! davesimonsmusic.com

For a deeper dive into these topics, join Dave's webinar on July 11th at davesimonsmusic.com/webinar, where you'll receive in-depth strategies, participate in a live Q&A, and access exclusive resources. Tune in and transform how you market and sell group music classes, inspiring young musicians along the way. In this episode:   Discover why group classes are an ideal solution for music schools facing instructor shortages, allowing them to serve more students efficiently. Delve into parents' beliefs about music lessons, their impact on a child's development and social status, and address common fears about failure. Learn how to design engaging group classes that retain students, communicate their unique benefits like teamwork and leadership, and present them as a valuable step towards private lessons. Gain insights on effective communication strategies, marketing tactics, and practical solutions for music schools. Understand the power of offering guarantees to build confidence and reduce perceived risks for parents.   davesimonsmusic.com

Unlock the secrets to making your music school more profitable. Discover how group classes can significantly boost your margins and optimize your limited teaching hours. In this episode, Dave delves into common misconceptions parents have about group versus private lessons and how to reposition your offerings to meet their needs.   Join Dave in his upcoming webinar, “The Number One Way to Fill Your Group Classes,” on July 11th at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Don't miss this chance to transform your business strategy and increase your student enrollment. Sign up now at www.davesimonsmusic.com/webinar.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, we look at new ways to teach music. Our guest, Nate Shaw, co-host of the Seven Figure Music School podcast and owner of the Brooklyn Music Factory, shares his unique method of gamified learning.   Nate has revolutionized music lessons by making them fun and relevant through the use of pop music and games, moving beyond traditional methods. Tune in to hear about his creation, Big Music Games, and its impact on music education.   davesimonmusic.com

Join Dave as he delves into the essentials of effective leadership in the music education business. He explores the importance of mentorship, both in having a mentor and being one.   Discover how these relationships can transform your business approach and provide deeper insights. Dave shares a personal story about making tough decisions with a mentor's guidance and introduces a rare opportunity to work with him directly. Tune in to learn how to establish strong systems and a robust marketing plan to drive growth in your music school.   davesimonsmusic.com

Many music schools prefer hiring instructors with advanced degrees, but U-Rock Music School's focus on mentoring and hiring teenager stands out. In this episode, I speak with Daniela Guglieta, a parent from U-Rock. She shared her positive experience with teenage instructors and her initial reaction to her child's 17-year-old teacher.   davesimonsmusic.com

Join Dave as he explores the innovative solution to music teacher shortages with Cathy Hallessey and Brian Brodersen from U-Rock Music School. Discover their unique approach to staffing their school with teenage teachers and the challenges and rewards they encounter along the way.   davesimonsmusic.com  

Join Dave as he delves into the essentials of effective leadership in the face of adversity. He explores how to navigate crises with composure and clarity. Discover the pivotal role of leadership in business, especially during crises.   From weathering the storm of recession to navigating the uncharted waters of a global pandemic, Dave uncovers valuable lessons on staying emotionally detached, making informed decisions, and empowering your team. Tune in to learn practical strategies for honing your leadership skills and leading your business through turbulent times.   davesimonsmusic.com

Join Dave as he shares the top challenges music school owners face and how to overcome them. Based on insights from a recent Music Lessons and Marketing Facebook group poll, Dave identifies five common limiting beliefs among music school owners, such as not enjoying the business side or feeling inadequate with technology. Reflecting on his own experience, Dave breaks down each belief and offers practical strategies for tackling them.   Discover why disliking the business aspect doesn't have to hold you back and how to delegate tasks effectively to focus on growth. Learn how to afford an assistant even on a tight budget and why investing in help can propel your school forward. Dave also discusses overcoming tech challenges and getting started with marketing, providing actionable steps for school owners to boost their marketing efforts effectively.   Tune in to gain valuable insights into overcoming common hurdles in running a music school and learn how to thrive in the competitive landscape of music education.   davesimonsmusic.com  

Ready to dive into the world of Instagram advertising with Danny Thompson? In this episode, he's spilling all the secrets on how to rock Instagram ads and supercharge your advertising game. We'll talk about fixing those pesky advertising problems and using what you learn to make your campaigns shine in today's fast-paced digital world.   So, Danny's really getting into the nuts and bolts of digital advertising. It's not just about catchy words; there's a whole science to making ads and hitting the right people. Sure, you could hire someone else to handle it, but knowing how it works gives you the power to steer your campaigns like a pro. Level up your advertising game today!   davesimonsmusic.com

Discover effective strategies to boost sales and enhance student retention in your music school. In this episode, Dave unveils two proven methods to keep students engaged and coming back for more. Say goodbye to churn and hello to growth with these actionable insights!   Jonah Berger's onto something: keeping your music school on people's lips is key. Word of mouth's a game-changer, and staying memorable doesn't have to eat up your time. Two main strategies got your back—one for your current kids and another for those who've hit pause. Generosity's your secret weapon. Drop a friendly email now and then, and watch your brand buzz. It's all about keeping those connections strong, whether they're fresh faces or old pals.   davesimonsmusic.com

Ready to unlock the secrets of a powerful word-of-mouth marketing strategy? Dive into this eye-opening episode with Dave. Despite its undeniable effectiveness, too many music schools are missing out on the potential of word-of-mouth marketing. Discover why it's crucial to shift your focus from offering discounts to showing genuine gratitude, a tactic proven to build trust and reputation.   Explore how simple, personalized gestures can work wonders in nurturing strong relationships and staying on the radar of both current and former students. Dave will guide you through the art of subtle engagement and authentic connection, going beyond the confines of music lessons.   Don't miss out on valuable insights and unveil practical strategies that ensure consistent engagement and harness the full potential of referrals. Tune in now and transform your word-of-mouth marketing strategy today.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave shares insights into the psychology behind pricing and customer perception, particularly in the context of music lessons. People often have a vague idea about the cost of music lessons, influenced by factors like convenience, reputation, and social validation. Music school owners sometimes mistakenly set prices based on their own financial perspective rather than their customers' ability to pay. Dave emphasizes the importance of understanding that clients may value music lessons differently, seeing them either as a commodity or as a transformative experience for their child. Dave advises music school owners to price confidently, reflecting the quality and value of the lessons they offer, and to use pricing as a tool to communicate this value. He argues that small price increases generally do not deter customers if they understand the value they're receiving, suggesting that effectively communicating the benefits and quality of music education can justify higher prices and attract clients who prioritize their child's development. davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave speaks with two members of Jonny Wilson's Build a Music School program and how it helped them grow their music school.   davesimonsmusic.com

Learn how to create a music summer camp experience that keeps kids returning year after year.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave explores different ways to avoid the summer slump and make summer your most profitable season.   davesimonsmusic.com

Camps can be a great way to offset student drops during the summer. In this episode, I speak with the King of Camp, Andy Brown, on how to structure a camp program parents and kids love.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave shares 8 lessons he learned about leadership, business, and marketing during COVID.   davesimonsmusic.com

Internationally renowned music educator Tim Topham shares how to improve student engagement and retention in his new book, “No Book Beginners.”   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, I share a 10-step summer camp marketing strategy that stretches from January to August.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave outlines a simple system for putting a marketing strategy together in just minutes.   davesimonsmusic.com

Making a promotional video for your music school doesn't have to cost a lot of money. In fact, it doesn't have to cost a dime. In this episode, Dave shares a simple, 6-step framework you can apply to any marketing video.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave shares 14 different ways to optimize your website so that it ranks #1 on Google.   davesimonsmusic.com

Dave takes a look at how the ever-evolving world of pop culture and technology can impact a music school. Dave speaks with a music school owner who has not only embraced the digital revolution but has built his entire business around electronic music.   davesimonsmusic.com

What does brand and branding even mean? In this episode, Dave shares how to incorporate branding into your marketing strategy.   davesimonsmusic.com

Do you struggle to find time to focus on marketing and other growth-oriented activities? In this episode, Dave maps out a strategy that will allow you to better manage and implement growth-oriented projects.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave shares different word-of-mouth marketing strategies designed to inspire your families to talk more about your music school.   davesimonsmusic.com

Build a Music School founder, Jonny Wilson, shares 9 books that every music school owner should have on their book shelf. Dave also shares his self-learning routine that only requires 20 minutes a day.   davesimonsmusic.com

Imagine how many more students you'd have in your music school if more students stayed for longer. In this episode, Dave shares some strategies that can improve your student retention.   davesimonsmusic.com

In the world of a music school, the importance of first impressions looms large. Every step a customer takes—from visiting your website to that first phone call to their first step into your school—comprises a chain of vital first impressions. These initial moments dictate the rhythm of their entire experience. In this episode, Dave dives into the art of identifying and shaping these impressions.   davesimonsmusic.com

In this episode, Dave shares how to revolutionize and simplify your marketing with ChatGPT.   davesimonsmusic.com