Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in music education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Natasha Frid Finlay, a teacher, accompanist, and musician, based in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I offer piano and theory lessons in French and English to students ages three to adult at all levels of experience. I specialize in semi-private lessons to engage positive peer pressure and comfort in performing in a supportive and fun environment.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a Gold Medal pianist, international adjudicator, and examiner for the Royal Conservatory of Music in Canada. I wanted to share my knowledge as to how students can achieve a high level of success and enjoyment at the piano, as well as develop transferable habits such as perseverance, goal setting, and focus.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our partnership with Community Music Schools of Toronto. $1 from every one of our lessons goes to the school to allow at-risk children to take music lessons in a safe, nurturing environment. We have funded over 6,000 music lessons at Community Music Schools of Toronto since 2010 and delight in hearing these incredible performers play at our recitals.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding the balance between accommodating needs and being clear about what I can offer to help a student achieve certain goals. I want everyone to be happy and successful, and it is a constant juggle between staying open to new ideas and also being honest about what is required in order to reach that achievement. I am very proud of our low turnover rate each year, and this motivates me to keep an open dialogue about what students want as they progress at the piano.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Seek out the people you would dream to work with. High standards lead to high retention and inspire you to reach the same level.
- Take calculated risks so that you're not too stressed financially or emotionally, and have backup plans in place.
- Talk to other business owners in similar professions and see if you can shadow them to better prepare your own business plan.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://pianowithjennandnatasha.wordpress.com/
YouTUbe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZtzPx_3BgyIRoy7j5GEhjw
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-finlay/
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.
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