Simpedia

Susan M., Washington

Hi all,

I wanted to share a recent experience I had. Although I had considered approaching the local newspapers for feature articles, I was too timid to do that. I was afraid the papers wouldn’t be interested because another local Simply Music teacher had already had an article done not very long ago (same town).

I found out from experience, that I should ask anyway. All they can do is say “no”, and that doesn’t even hurt! Also, when a newspaper says “no”, it doesn’t mean “never”, you can always ask again later or under different circumstances.

I received an email from a local reporter. She wanted my permission to interview/photograph me for an article. Someone had given her my card and suggested an article be written. I contacted her and we scheduled her to visit my home/studio.

I prepared by studying my teacher training materials and by editing and printing up the article written by Neil that is provided in the “business support materials”.

I prepared a package of items to give to the interviewer which included the edited article by Neil, one of my flyers, and a list of other resources, including current student contact information (I asked their permission first), and the Simply Music website address. I did not hand this package to the reporter until after the interview, so she would not rely on those written materials, but would be more likely to take thorough notes.

I asked one of my students to be present for the interview and for pictures. She was enthusiastic and supportive and looks great in the picture! (Someone on the forum suggested this and I’m so glad you did!)

I chose my adult student because most people I speak with about “piano lessons” think first of children. I wanted to have an adult student in the picture so people would have a visual image showing that this is for adults too. My student played her songs beautifully while “posing” for our picture! (She’s playing Night Storm in the picture.)

I made sure to include the four declared goals of Simply Music. I was afraid I would not remember them all, so I used the page out of my teacher materials as reference during the interview.

It was a great article, with a good photo. I’m excited.

(After closing this window, feel free to download a copy of the article)