Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in music but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elisabeth Lohninger, a professional vocalist, songwriter, and voice teacher based in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a jazz vocalist and singing teacher. I also create online singing courses for vocalists, ranging from music theory to jazz improvisation and vocal technique.
Tell us about yourself
I started singing at 6 years old and love working on my voice and on my improvisational skills. And I love passing on what I have learned. The pandemic really got me started in the online course realm. I think for vocalists; it is often difficult to find structured, knowledge-based courses that are challenging but not overwhelming. We often learn from instinct or by ear, which is fine. But if the foundations of good vocal technique and solid music theory are not there, it's almost impossible to grow as an artist beyond a certain level. I enjoy facilitating that step. And when I discover something that works for me, I cannot wait to pass it on to my students.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
During the pandemic, I ran 2 semesters of a jazz improv course via Zoom, from New York, with participants all living in Germany. That was very cool and instructive. Also, my skill set as an on-camera instructor, video editor, and content creator has grown immensely. And in the last year or so, I have released over 40 videos on the Vocal Musician YouTube channel.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Time management.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
It depends on the business. If you want to enter the online course creation arena, I would say:
- Do your research as far as actual interest in the course you want to create.
- Start small, create a baby course, and see how it lands.
- Make sure you choose a topic that you feel passionate about. Otherwise, your interest in creating it is very difficult to sustain.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.vocalmusician.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lohninger
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elohninger/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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