Prepare Yourself for a Career in Music

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in music education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with James Maguire, Founder of Jim Maguire Music LLC, located in Katy, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My wife and I run a music/music lesson business as solopreneurs. I do the music work, and she handles much of the admin. We provide services such as music lessons, transcription work, session work in studios, and more! I also perform in musicals, in churches, and with the Texas country artist Morgan Mckay.

My customers vary greatly. My students are of all ages and all skill levels. Some of my students are absolute beginners, and some are already professional musicians who are trying to sharpen their skills or broaden their musical horizons. The common thread is that they all LOVE music.

Tell us about yourself

When I was 15, I got bitten by the "guitar bug." I fell in love with the instrument and wanted to prove that you could make a great living even without being a famous pop star. What keeps me going, however, is the bond I share with my clients and students. It caught me off guard a little bit with how deep some of these relationships can grow. I want to help them bring the music out that's inside of them! Additionally, especially with children, I feel that music provides confidence, discipline, and a plethora of life and motor skills that create better adults and a better society, so it's about more than just learning and teaching music to me.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Pivoting towards online lessons early and even before COVID. Reshaping our business model to survive and thrive when so many arts-related businesses died out is something that I think we are most proud of. In fact, the COVID years were the busiest that we have ever been!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

It's a balancing act that never ends. The business is always shrinking and growing, and you have to be constantly reacting and trying new things to stay on the tightrope. Also, my business is really fun, so the admin is the hardest part, scheduling, billing, etc.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Be patient. It won't happen all at once. It's all about steady growth and relationships with people. Take a side gig if you need to until you have the business providing the income you need.
Take advantage of digital and social media marketing.
In a service industry, make your client relationships a top priority and worry MORE about the value you are providing them than about what they are providing you!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://jimmaguiremusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimboshreds
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shredder_jim/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.