How to Start a Music & Arts School

Starting a Music & Arts School

If you have a passion for music and arts, combined with a mind for business, starting a music and arts school might be a good career move to consider. With a little research and planning, you can start your new school with the bare essentials. If you are an entrepreneur with access to adequate financing, you can establish a music and arts institute to accomodate a wide variety of age groups and skill levels.

Things You'll Need

• Business plan
• Building
• Computer access
• Instructors or interns
• Art supplies, equipment and instruments

Instructions

How to Start a Music & Arts School

1. Create a business plan. According to Entrepreneur.com, the business plan is "the first step on the path to success." During this process, there are several key factors to consider, including the age groups, curriculum, materials, number of students, and even the type of instruction the school will provide. This step requires as much detail as possible and may also determine other subsequent steps.

2. Establish a location. Determine if this venture will start off as a home-based business before progressing to a commercial building. If a building has already been secured, make sure that it has all the necessary working features, including adequate outlets, rooms, bathroom facilities and handicapped accessible ramps, if applicable.

3. Register your business name and apply for all pertinent licenses and permits required by the state in which the school will operate. Apply for an employee identification number (EIN) through the IRS.

4. Secure instructors. Whether you hire actual staff or obtain interns will depend upon the available funding and budget for running the business. College graduates and students may be willing to pursue an internship opportunity with your school.

5. Obtain instruments, art supplies, dance supplies, books and other teaching materials. Leasing options may be available for some of the instruments and equipment.

6. Promote. Your initial business plan will have established a target market. All promotional and marketing efforts should be geared mostly toward your target market. Public schools, daycare centers, childcare facilities are examples of places where you may want to post flyers and brochures.

Tips & Warnings

• Advertise that the school will accept donations. Some schools, organizations, private institutions and music and arts advocates may be willing to donate instruments, art supplies and other tools.

References

• Entrepreneur.com: Business Plan
• Internal Revenue Service: EIN Application

Resources

• Small Business Administration
• Collectibles With Causes: Donate an Instrument