The Fourforty (440) with Eric Branner
The FourForty Podcast is where musicians and music teachers share their journeys as educators, entrepreneurs, and creative leaders. Each conversation explores the real work of building a meaningful career in music... and the impact it makes beyond the studio.
The Fourforty (440) with Eric Branner
Clarity Over Chaos: Building a Professional Music Teaching Business with Michael Richey
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What does a truly professional music teaching practice look like in 2026?
In this episode of The FourForty Podcast, I’m joined by Michael Richey, owner of Tennessee Music Academy, a multi-teacher, in-home music studio serving Nashville families.
Michael shares how he’s built a calm, sustainable, high-trust studio by making a few clear decisions and sticking to them. We talk about flat-rate tuition, no-makeup policies, clear communication, and why professionalism actually creates better relationships with families.
We also explore how the Alexander Technique and Dalcroze Eurhythmics have shaped Michael’s teaching philosophy, helping students move, learn, and grow with less tension—both musically and logistically.
This conversation is a masterclass in doing fewer things, better.
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