Work With John

The Work
I help music education organizations, music school owners, and product teams rethink how music is taught and experienced.
I blend music education, business strategy, and real-world implementation. I’m not interested in theory for theory’s sake. I’m interested in what actually works. For students, instructors, and the people building the programs behind the scenes, it means a core focus on relevance, engagement, and how music impacts the human experience.
Experience & Perspective
I’m the founder of Michigan Rock School, an author/creator, and host of the Rock School Proprietor podcast, where I explore the realities of running modern music education businesses.
I’ve worked with organizations including Gibson Brands and Epiphone Guitars, I’m also a member of NAMM and other music education organizations. I’ve presented at the NAMM Show, for the Utah MTNA, and other local and regional organizations.
Across all of this work, my role is often the same: helping to translate vision and goals into day-to-day reality.
How I Work With Organizations
Speaking & Conversations
I speak at conferences, events, webinars, and on podcasts about music, education, and related businesses. Topics might include:
- Modernizing music lessons for today’s learners
- Performance-based and community-centered approaches to music education
- Marketing that aligns with your purpose as an educator or organization
- Diversification and long-term sustainability
Consulting & Project-Based Work
I work with music-ed companies and organizations on projects related to music learning products, programs, and services. This can include:
- Product positioning and messaging for young or first-time learners
- Curriculum and program development
- Bridging the gap between educational intent and real-world use
- Helping teams think through how learning actually happens—not just how it’s described
Coaching & Mentoring
I coach music school owners and education leaders who are building programs, teams, and systems. Common areas of focus:
- Instructor training and onboarding
- Operations and communication
- Marketing that feels aligned with your mission
- Growing without losing the culture you care about

Start a Conversation
If you’re exploring a speaking engagement, consulting project, or coaching relationship, I’d love to hear what you’re working on.
No pitch. No pressure.
Just a conversation.