Ep. 44: Kelly Riordan
Welcome to Episode 44:
In this episode, Chris dives deep into the world of private music studios with Kelly Riordan, a powerhouse in music education, hybrid teaching, and marketing. Kelly shares her journey from building her own thriving private studio to helping over 3,000 teachers and students grow their music careers worldwide.
Click HERE to watch this episode on YouTube.
This conversation explores everything from setting rates, avoiding burnout, and managing student anxiety, to leveraging marketing strategies for long-term success. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
Key Sections
Building a Thriving Studio
Transitioning from a traditional "dollars-for-hours" model to flat-rate tuition.
Managing a teaching schedule to avoid burnout.
Understanding the importance of identifying and working with aligned students.
Mastering Hybrid Teaching & Marketing
Strategies for breaking out of local teaching into online, hybrid models.
Effective, non-salesy ways to promote your studio using social media and local outreach.
The importance of creating a balance between relatability and professionalism.
Supporting Musicians Worldwide
How Kelly helps music educators build sustainable studios.
Using tools like the "nice file" for self-confidence and imposter syndrome.
Offering scholarships while maintaining a thriving business.
Mindset Shifts for Success
Reframing performance anxiety as an opportunity for growth.
Understanding the "portfolio career" as a way to create fulfilling, multifaceted music careers.
Using self-belief and intentional thought patterns to shape your success.
Memorable Quotes
“Sales isn’t a dirty word—it’s about showing up authentically and serving others.”
“If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect others to believe in you?”
“Letting go of students who aren’t the right fit isn’t rejection; it’s leading them toward better opportunities.”
“Raise your rates to lead with service—you can’t help others if you’re barely making ends meet.”
Key Takeaways
Marketing Strategies: Start locally by building relationships with schools, community groups, and local music organizations. Use social media as a long-term strategy to showcase your teaching style and build credibility.
Mindset for Growth: Don’t let fear of pricing or imposter syndrome hold you back. Confidence in your value leads to stronger connections with aligned students.
Studio Organization: Avoid burnout by streamlining admin tasks with software, creating structured tuition models, and focusing on your ideal student.
The Power of Testimonials: Ask students and parents for testimonials after big wins and use them to attract more students.
Links & Resources
Kelly Riordan’s Website: Outside the Bachs
Join the Facebook Group: A supportive space for music teachers to share insights and advice.
Free Strategy Call: Request Here
Subscribe to Inbox: Kelly’s free weekly newsletter for actionable tips and mindset shifts.
Call to Action
If these topics resonate with you, subscribe to the Honesty Pill YouTube channel, and share this episode with your fellow musicians. Let’s keep the conversation going—drop your thoughts or questions in the comments or on social media!
