Membership Expired Kat Hunter
Membership ExpiredForum Replies Created
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Hey Rosie, I find myself agreeing with most of the things said above.
Definitely try to make the phone call. I used to be terrible on the phone, but I’ve found it’s a skill I’ve gotten better at (through sheer force of will and practice). I’ve also found that when I speak to a student on the phone BEFORE the lesson it can offer result in better retention after that first lesson as you’ve already got them on side.
That said, absolutely don’t feel as though you need to offer a free lesson (or a free “consultation” for that matter). If you treat them with a warmth and respect but set clear boundaries, demonstrating the worth of your time, the student will be grateful for this. Boundaries are important so that both parties (teacher and student) know where they stand.
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Open mics, and the idea of collaborations happening between students is such a cool idea! I’m still on the hunt for an open mic near me that feels chill enough for me to recommend it to my students or hold an event there. I think what’s happening near me is that sometimes a bar (not a cozy little music venue, but a sterile bar with zero space for the performer) will hold an open mic night to prop up their booze sales and have music without having to pay musicians. Bad vibes!
I think overall though, fewer concerts is not a bad idea. Better to do a smaller number of things in a way that feels good, than to burn out!!
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Amazing advice! This is all super helpful.
You mentioned you did a paid event? How does the money end of things normally work? Do you pay the venue?
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I agree with all the above. She needs to get an ok from an ENT before taking the next step with her voice.
That said, if she’s had nodules for a LONG time (as in she got hard nodules as a kid that never went away and were not removed – I’ve taught a student like this before), and is considered ready to work on her voice, working with a voice teacher will help her develop a more sustainable way of using her voice in speaking and singing, which can only be a good thing.
But yes, even if she gets the “OK”, don’t feel like you have to take her on. Like Matt said, if you’re not confident, it will rub off on the student.
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I wish I could help with this one but all too often it seems to be a case of “who you know”. Would love to see some more information out there about this.
