Do you want more students this fall?

Some suggestions.  Offer deals.  I offer a deal for 12 lessons.  Pay in advance and receive a 10% discount.  Offer overlapping lessons to siblings.   Sign up for six theory classes and receive one free half-hour lesson.  Recommend a new student and receive one free half-hour lesson.  Plus, offer a free 30 minute trial lesson. 

Advertising is always good, especially when it’s inexpensive.  If you want to place an ad, do so in your local paper so that it’s not too costly.  Place a flyer and / or business cards in local businesses, especially music stores.  Take business cards to school music teachers. 

If you have more suggestions, I’d love to hear them.

Curious to know if any of you "fire" students who do not work to your expectations? And if so, do you have a policy in place that parents read before lessons start...I am conducting some informal research because a colleague and I have been discussing it and assume different conclusions...lol
THANK YOU!
Joan

Rates

I’m often asked how a studio teacher should determine what to charge per hour.  I suggest you talk to other studio teachers in your area and math / english and SAT tutors. 

Should you be less than other teachers in your area or more?  My advice is, don’t charge too little and don’t charge too much.  If you charge too little, parents will think you’re not very good and if you’re too expensive, they may not be able to afford your prices.

Plus, during tough economic times, try not to raise your rates too much.  I raised my rates a couple of dollars after 2 1/2 years.  I did tell the parents / students in a letter that it had been 2 1/2 years.  January 1 is another great time to do this.  Just send out a letter, email or both. You don’t need to explain why. 

Locations

Locations
There are lots of great options for private studio teaching locations.  If you have enough room in your home, you can choose a suitable room.  If that doesn’t work, many teachers choose to find private studio teaching schools.  You will earn less income, but will not have to find students or deal with the parents and paperwork.  

Renting a location is another great idea.  Make sure you add the rental fee into your hourly fee.  The last possibility is to private studio teach in a private or public school. 

Welcome. Please check back often for tips and tricks on  running a successful Private Music Studio!