125: Successful In-Home Teaching with Michael Richey

Teaching piano in students' homes isn't a model we hear about very often, but it can be an incredibly successful way to build a studio. In this episode, Michael Richey shares how he grew a thriving multi-teacher travel studio, the business systems that keep it running smoothly, and why in-home teaching can be a premium service that benefits both families and teachers.

Michael shared how building a travel-based piano studio created a thriving multi-teacher business.
He explained the benefits of bringing lessons directly into students' homes.
The importance of creating efficient teaching routes to maximize time.
How strong studio policies support both teachers and families.
Why charging premium rates reflects the value of in-home lessons.
How hiring teachers with the right mindset is essential for long-term success.
Michael shared how clear communication keeps a multi-teacher studio running smoothly.
How technology simplifies scheduling, billing, and teacher management.
The value of recitals in building community across a travel studio.
Why teachers should treat their studio as a professional business.
How sustainable systems help prevent burnout while supporting growth.
Michael encouraged teachers to regularly review and improve their studio policies.
Why travel teaching can provide flexibility, convenience, and exceptional service for families.

Links Mentioned

Michael's website:www.tnmusicacademy.com
Fons

Today's Guest

Michael Richey is the founder of Tennessee Music Academy, a multi-teacher travel studio in the Nashville, TN area. His teaching is inspired by the many years of studying the Alexander Technique, Dalcroze Eurhythmics, and piano pedagogy. Michael is an avid businessman—always looking to streamline, simplify, and innovate. He is passionate about helping teachers generate fair, livable income for a sustainable career in music teaching. Michael serves as Vice-President for Programs in the local MTA and Treasurer of the local NFMC Senior Music Club and Festival. He has recently been featured on The Fourforty (440) Podcast with Eric Branner. Michael has also guest lectured many times at universities on business practices of independent teaching studios and policy writing.

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

Visit her website at RachelEhring.com
Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694
Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

Thank you for tuning in!

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