Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Galloway.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Emma. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started playing the violin at age 5, and took lessons through high school. When I got to college, I declared as a music major, joined the Sherman Symphony Orchestra, and continued taking lessons. After graduation, I joined the workforce in a 9-5 cubicle position. I worked there for two years, and my music took a back seat to life. I realized I missed it terribly and that I really disliked working in a cubicle. I was fortunate to know the owners of Strike Up The Band in Natick, MA, who offered me a position as a music teacher. One terrifying day, I decided to take the plunge, and quit my job so that I could start teaching full time. I began with just a few students, and networked all I could. Now I teach in Watertown and Natick, and have a full schedule 5 days a week!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Things haven’t been completely smooth, but I have a great support system of family and friends who help make it much easier. Starting out with only a few students was hard, because I didn’t know how long it would take to get enough students to be breaking even, and they tend to trickle in slowly. Working for yourself means having to find all your own clients, and that can be a challenge, especially with today’s modern technology. You have to be an expert in so many things besides just teaching- marketing, finance, social media, etc.
Emma’s Music Lessons – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I remember as a beginner being auditioned by my teacher. She tested me before she ever accepted me as a student. As an adult, it makes me sad that people who may have passion but less musical talent could miss out just because they couldn’t pass that initial audition. My motto is “Music: Meant for Everyone”. I strive to make music approachable for students of every age and any skill or talent level. I am always sure to include “fun songs” for every student- songs they know from the radio, or movies, that they want to play and will motivate them to practice. I’m most proud that my students are taught to be well rounded musicians. Many teachers focus just on playing a particular instrument, and so do I, but I always include music theory, ear training, and music history. My students are not just capable violinists or pianists. They are capable musicians.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m hoping to open a studio in a commercial space. I love teaching from my home, but having a whole separate studio space would be great for marketing.
Pricing:
- $30 per half hour lesson
- $60 per hour lesson
- $360 for a full semester of half hour lessons
Contact Info:
- Address: 76 Capitol Street
- Website: emmagalloway.com
- Phone: 6174604675
- Email: watertownmusiclessons@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emmasmusiclessons/
- Twitter: @EmmaGViolinist
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