Easy Valentine’s Day Music Lesson Done for You: Games, Treats & Takeaways

A Valentine’s Day Music Lesson Your Students Will Love

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to sprinkle a little extra joy, color, and creativity into your music studio. This is something you can use during the entire week so everyone in the studio gets to have the fun “themed” lesson. Whether you teach piano, voice, strings, or general music, this themed lesson plan gives you a full class of festive fun—complete with games, treats, and a special skill students can proudly take home. Adjust it to fit your lesson length.

Below is a ready-to-use Valentine’s Day lesson you can plug straight into your studio schedule.

Warm‑Up: “Heartbeats & Rhythms”

Start the lesson with a quick rhythm warm‑up using the idea of a heartbeat. Have students tap quarter note, quarter note, 8th note quarter patterns (like ta–ta–ti‑ti‑ta) patterns on their lap, then create their own “heartbeat rhythm” to share. This sets the tone for a playful, musical session.

Three Valentine’s Day Music Game Ideas

1. Cupid’s Rhythm Toss

• Place rhythm cards on the floor in a heart shape.

• Students toss a small beanbag onto a card.

• Whatever rhythm it lands on, they must clap, play, or sing.

• Bonus: Let them earn a small sticker for each correct rhythm.

This game gets them moving and reinforces rhythm reading in a low‑pressure way.

2. Musical Matchmaker

• Prepare pairs of cards: one with a musical term, one with its definition.

• Scatter them face‑down like a memory game.

• Students flip two at a time, trying to find the correct match.

You can tailor the difficulty by choosing terms appropriate for each student’s level—dynamics, tempo markings, intervals, or even note names.

3. Valentine’s Melody Hunt

• Hide heart‑shaped cards around the room.

• Each card contains a short melodic pattern or interval.

• When students find one, they must play or sing it before collecting it.

This adds excitement and encourages quick recognition of melodic patterns.

Sweet Treat Ideas for the Lesson

Keep it simple, allergy‑friendly, and music‑themed:

• Heart‑shaped fruit snacks

• Pink or red wrapped chocolates

• Mini Valentine pencils or erasers

• A “You Make My Heart Sing!” sticker

• A tiny heart‑shaped cookie (individually wrapped)

Treats don’t have to be sugary—small themed trinkets feel just as special.

Special Skill of the Day: “The Love Chord”

End the lesson with a musical takeaway they’ll remember.

Teach students a new chord or interval and call it the Love Chord for the day. Depending on their level, this could be:

• A simple C major chord

• A I–V–I progression

• A major 6th interval (because it sounds warm and sweet)

• A short two‑measure Valentine melody they can play for their family

Have them perform it once at the end of the lesson so they leave feeling accomplished and celebrated.

Final Thoughts

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to build connection, spark creativity, and make music lessons feel magical. With a few themed games, a small treat, and a special musical takeaway, your students will walk out smiling—and eager for next week.

Happy Teaching!

Becky

How to Switch to Online Music Lessons Fast: 4 Steps for Weather Emergencies

How to Switch to Online Music Lessons in a Pinch

This week with the SNOWpocalypse, I had to switch to online lessons. I’ve got a massive hill in front of my house and students coming here, or me leaving to drive to my lessons wasn’t an option. Bad weather doesn’t have to derail your teaching schedule—or your income. One of the biggest gifts you can give yourself as a studio owner is a simple, reliable plan for moving lessons online at a moment’s notice. When snow, ice, or unexpected emergencies pop up, having a system in place keeps your studio running smoothly and your students progressing without interruption.

Below is a streamlined, teacher‑friendly guide you can implement today so you’re never scrambling again.

Step 1: Choose Your Online Platform Before You Need It

Don’t wait until the storm hits to decide how you’ll connect.

Pick one primary platform and one backup option:

• Primary: FaceTime (my preferred), Zoom, or Google Meet

• Backup: A second app your students already have access to

Make sure:

• Your device is updated and charged

• Your camera and microphone work

• You know how to share your screen or audio if needed

🎶 Tip: Add your meeting link to your studio policies or welcome packet so families always know where to go.

Step 2: Create a Quick-Send Communication Template

When weather changes fast, you don’t want to spend 30 minutes crafting a message.

Prepare a short script you can copy, paste, and send to all families. Something like:

“Due to weather conditions, all lessons today will be held online at your regular time. We’ll meet on FaceTime/Zoom. If you lose power or internet, please let me know as soon as possible.”

Save this in your notes app, email drafts, or studio management software so it’s always ready.

Step 3: Keep an Online-Friendly Lesson Plan on Standby

Online lessons run best when you have a structure that works specifically for the virtual format. It’s best to have a copy of all the method books your students use on hand for this reason (or if a student ever forgets their music, you can continue as planned) Just know, you won’t be able to get through the lesson at the same speed as normal as internet connection issues happen, or there’s a delay on the line. Teaching online has always been just a little bit slower in progress. But it can be done. But you can also have the following to help make the lesson more fun and run smoothly.

Have a small collection of “online-ready” activities you can pull out instantly:

• Digital flashcards

• Rhythm echo games

• Play-along tracks

• Sight-reading apps

• Short technique challenges

• A few printable worksheets you can email if needed

This ensures your lesson stays engaging—even if the switch was last-minute.

Step 4: Prepare for Power or Internet Issues

Weather can be unpredictable, so build flexibility into your plan.

Have a policy in place for:

• What happens if you lose power

• What happens if they lose power

• Whether lessons are rescheduled, refunded, or skipped

• How students should notify you if they can’t connect

You can also keep a portable charger nearby so your phone stays powered for FaceTime lessons or communication.

Final Thoughts

A smooth transition to online lessons isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation. With a clear plan, a ready-to-send message, and a few online-friendly activities in your back pocket, you can turn a stressful weather day into a seamless teaching day.

Happy Teaching!

Becky

5 Essential Marketing Techniques to Boost Your Music Teaching Business

If your music teaching studio feels more echo chamber than concert hall lately, you're not alone. Many talented instructors struggle to attract a steady flow of students—not because they aren’t skilled, but because they aren’t marketing effectively. Here are five essential marketing strategies to help turn things around and bring life back to your studio.

1. Define Your Unique Brand

• Pinpoint your strengths: Are you known for preparing students for conservatories? Making lessons fun for kids? Supporting adult beginners?

• Craft your story: Share what makes your approach distinct on your website and social media.

• Use consistent visuals: Choose a logo, colors, and design style that reflect your personality and teaching style.

Your brand is what makes people remember you—it’s not just a name, it’s an experience.

2. Build a High-Quality Website

• Make it mobile-friendly: Most parents and students search on their phones first.

• Include testimonials, pricing, and scheduling tools: Transparency builds trust.

• Showcase your studio vibe: Photos, videos, and sample lesson clips add a human touch.

If your website doesn’t inspire someone to click “Book a Lesson,” it’s time for a makeover.

3. Leverage Local SEO & Directories

• Claim your Google Business profile: This gets you on the map—literally.

• Use keywords like “piano lessons near me” or “violin teacher in [your town]” in your website copy.

• Get listed on directories: MusicTeacher.com, TakeLessons, and Thumbtack are just a start.

When your studio is hard to find online, it's like playing music into the void.

4. Create Community Connections

• Offer free workshops or open houses at local schools or community centers.

• Partner with music stores and libraries: Ask to leave flyers or give mini demos.

• Volunteer at events: Presence builds visibility and credibility.

• Join a local ensemble: This has been the biggest attractor for me. People see me perform, as if I teach and I hand them a business card or tell them how to access my website.

A familiar face becomes a trusted teacher faster than any ad ever could.

5. Amp Up Your Social Media Game

• Post short reels or stories of your students (with permission!) to show progress and excitement.

• Share tips and mini tutorials: "How to practice scales without going crazy" goes a long way.

• Engage with your local community: Comment on school pages, tag local groups, and participate in trending challenges.

• Join the local mom’s group on Facebook: People are always asking for music teacher information on there and the more often your name comes up, the more other mom’s notice

Social media isn’t just noise—it’s your microphone to reach future students.

✨ Final Note: If you’re struggling to fill vacancies in your music studio, marketing is not optional—it’s your lifeline. Start small, pick one or two of these techniques, and build from there. As your visibility grows, so will your student roster.

Happy Teaching!

Becky

Back to School, Back to Lessons: Starting the New Year Strong as a Music Teacher

There’s a special kind of magic in the air when the school year begins—new pencils, fresh notebooks, and the hum of possibility. As music teachers, we don’t just dive into rhythm and repertoire; we help shape the confidence, discipline, and creativity of our students. And that first week back? It's our overture to what can be a transformative year.

Whether you're running a private studio or teaching in a school setting, here are a few reflections and strategies to help you kick off the new teaching year with purpose and spark:

Reset & Reflect: What’s Changed?

Before the students walk through the door, take a moment for yourself. Reflect on what worked last year—and what didn’t. Were your students motivated? Did lessons feel purposeful? Use these reflections to tweak your approach. A small shift in your teaching rhythm can lead to big changes in engagement.

Establish Your Studio Vibe Early

The tone you set in the first lessons will carry through the year. Don’t just teach—create a culture. Introduce studio policies with warmth and clarity, share your enthusiasm for the music you’ll explore, and show students (and parents) that you value communication and consistency.

Some ideas:

• A welcome newsletter or email outlining expectations

• A studio calendar with lesson dates and performance opportunities

• A shared document where students can track their progress and goals

Make Goals a Conversation

Start the year by talking with each student about their aspirations. Are they prepping for challenges in band or auditions? Hoping to learn to play by ear? Wanting to write their own song? Set individual goals together, write them down, and revisit them monthly. That intentionality gives lessons direction—and students ownership.

Celebrate More Than Achievement

Success isn’t just mastering a new piece—it’s showing up, trying again, and learning how to listen. Consider ways to celebrate your students beyond recitals:

• Highlight weekly “effort awards”

• Share progress with parents via short notes or recordings

• Post achievements on a studio bulletin board or social media

The more visible their growth, the more motivated they’ll become.

Keep Growing Yourself

Teachers need fuel too. Join a local music teacher group like MTNA, look for community ensembles or groups you can join, dig into new repertoire, or collaborate with other educators. Growth isn’t just for students—your passion and curiosity are contagious, and they keep your teaching fresh.

Listen with Intent

Every student comes with a story—especially at the start of a new year. Some have practiced all summer, others are coming in cold. Some are excited, others anxious. Take the time to listen to where they are musically and emotionally. It’s the best way to meet them where they are—and help guide them forward.

Final Note

The back-to-school season isn’t just about routines and checklists. It’s about reigniting purpose, reconnecting with students, and renewing your own love for teaching. So take a deep breath, tune your heart as well as your instruments, and dive in.

Here’s to a vibrant year filled with music, momentum, and meaningful moments.

Happy Teaching!

Becky

Rest Notes and Refresh: Why Summer Breaks Can Be Helpful for Private Music Teachers

In the world of private music teaching, it’s easy to feel like you’re always "on stage." Each lesson demands focus, warmth, and high-level guidance—and over time, that can wear even the most passionate instructor down. That’s why building a purposeful summer break into your studio calendar isn’t indulgent—it’s essential. I personally take 10 weeks off, but that is because I have my 3 kids home with me all day, every day. And balancing that family life, keeping my own kids entertained and a regular teaching schedule and balancing summer vacations just doesn’t work for our family right now.

🎼 The Harmony of Taking a Break

A summer slowdown is about more than just catching your breath:

Preventing Burnout: Teaching music is deeply rewarding, but it’s also emotionally and mentally intensive. A seasonal pause helps you refuel, both personally and creatively.

Reorganizing Systems: Summer is a prime time to refine scheduling practices, revamp policies, declutter studio materials, or upgrade technology.

Researching & Reinvigorating: With fewer lesson hours, you can experiment with new repertoire, explore fresh teaching methods, or deep-dive into pedagogy books that spark new ideas for fall.

📯 The Trade-Offs to Consider

Taking time off also requires strategy, especially when your studio is your livelihood:

Income Gaps: A full summer break can interrupt your cash flow. To prepare, consider:

• Spreading tuition over 12 months.

• Establishing a summer-specific savings cushion.

• Offering prepaid summer lesson packages or digital resources.

Retention Risk: If you pause completely, some students may drift away or seek other options. Clear communication, early scheduling, or offering a light-touch summer program can help maintain continuity or even a midsummer break get-together. Ice cream social with a mini group lesson attached to it.

🎶 Flexible Summer Rhythms That Work

You don’t have to choose between full throttle and complete silence. Try one of these tuned-down alternatives:

Teach every other week: Offers Balance - Students stay engaged and you still get rest and time to recharge

Teach 1 month in the summer like July while taking June and August Off: A clean end, start, reset rhythm that honors both momentum and downtime

Offer Camp Style Intensives: One or two theme weeks with group or private sessions- great for scheduling and income

Go Lighter, not silent: Offer fewer lesson slots or switch to virtual check-ins to check on their progress. Aim to send an email at least 3 weeks BEFORE you start teaching to confirm lesson times with your students and to see how many, if any, openings you have for the next school year.

🎹 No Break? No Problem—Teaching Through the Summer

For some studio owners, pausing during the summer simply isn’t practical—or even desirable. Maybe you love the consistency, rely on the income, or find joy in helping students make progress year-round. Teaching through the summer can absolutely work, especially with a few thoughtful adjustments:

Shift the Focus: Consider relaxing your regular curriculum to allow for creative detours—like student-led projects, fun repertoire, or theory games.

Adjust Expectations: Lighter attendance and vacation schedules can make summers feel more flexible. Use this time to encourage casual learning and exploration.

Capitalize on Availability: Students often have more free time in summer, which can lead to more focused practice, lesson intensives, or scheduling flexibility.

Build Momentum: For newer students or beginners, continuing lessons keeps their progress steady and helps build strong foundational habits.

The key is to communicate clearly with families about your summer policies in your studio policy and remind them early in the spring, so they know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

At its best, summer becomes a beautiful fermata—a pause, yes, but full of intention and grace if you choose to take a summer brek. Whether you fully rest or shift into a lighter tempo or keep going, planning your summer can protect your artistry and your business in the long run. Plus it’s your studio, you get to make the rules.

So take a breath. Reset your rhythm. Your studio (and your sanity) will thank you.

Happy Teaching!

Becky