Music Lesson Studio Series – Part 1

Where Should I Have My Private Music Studio?

For any musicians, performers and music educators who want to open up their own private music studio, I’m going to write a blog series of how to open up your own private studio. Today, I will be writing specifically about determining a location for your own private studio.

Note: In the context of a private music studio, a studio can be both a physical space and a selected number of students that you are teaching weekly, monthly, etc. Not to be confused with a recording studio or a rehearsal space.

Depending on where you live, location is one key determining factor with how you will offer private lessons to your students in the area. If you live in a large city, you might consider either renting a physical space through an existing studio or offer lessons in your residence to accommodate multiple students. If you live in a smaller town, you might consider offering lessons in your home, if that’s an option for you.

I’m going to provide some pros and cons of teaching at a home and some pros and cons of teaching in a public space. Here are some things you should consider when opening up your studio:

Pros of Teaching at Home

• It might comfortable setting for the teacher and student
• It may be more convenient for the teacher
• Instrument and technology is already set well for the teacher’s needs

Cons of Teaching at Home

• Neighbor issues, due to tight space, thin walls, noise complaints
• Internet issues if teaching online, connectivity between teacher and student, accessibility issues
• Students may need a ride to teacher’s home studio, especially if they don’t drive. Gas is expensive!

Pros of Teaching in a Public Space

• Larger space for multiple lessons, especially on a timely schedule
• There may be equipment or instruments available for instructors and students
• You might have an office space on campus, that could come in handy

Cons of Teaching in a Public Space

• Location might be too far for a student
• Transportation issues, gas and mileage
• Rental cost to rent a space, in terms of monthly expenses on the teacher

According to Alfred Music, music stores can charge up to 40-60% per music lesson!

These are some things to consider when you’re thinking opening up your own private music studio. This is an important factor because you as a a private instructor will have to find what will best for you and for your circumstances.

Here’s another helpful article on further considerations on where you might hold your own private music studio. There is no right or wrong answer on how you run your private music studio.

For me personally, I offer part-time voice lessons at my home as I am working full-time and it’s more cost effective for time and money wise to offer lessons instead of renting a space to teach lessons. Every private instructor is different and private music studious can vary at any point in time!

Next time, I will talk about the pros and cons of teaching in-person, teaching online or teaching both. Want to read more of my blogs? Be sure to subscribe, so that you stay connected to my music business! Thank you so much for reading my blog!

Comment any other ideas and suggestions you might have for private music studio locations below! Share this article with your friends and family via your Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn!

Photo by Matthew Daniels on Unsplash