We recently connected with Cameron Carbone and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Cameron thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
My journey into creating a drum lesson business is quite a fascinating one. It all started when I graduated from TCU in 2014 with a music degree, then moved to Austin in the summer of 2015. I had the opportunity to tour and teach music in local school districts, which was a rewarding experience. But I quickly realized that it was challenging to scale my business, despite the fun and fulfillment I derived from it. There was a problem that was looming over me, and it seemed no one else was solving it: the difficulty in finding a conducive place to play and practice the drum set, due to its loud nature.
Living in apartments and most houses, I always had to deal with complaining neighbors whenever I tried to practice. It was an issue that took weeks of brainstorming to solve, but I was determined to find a solution. The excitement of overcoming this challenge was what kept me going. The whole process was like a puzzle, and every piece that fell into place brought an adrenaline rush that fueled my determination.
After a series of relentless efforts, I discovered a local storage unit facility that was willing to accommodate my needs. It was climate-controlled and even had power outlets outside of the unit, which I cleverly utilized for my lights, fans, and electronics. The management was incredibly understanding and supportive, providing a special code for my students to enter and exit. It was a unique approach, unlike anything I had ever imagined, but it worked perfectly.
I took to Instagram to share my knowledge and experiences, a strategy that proved very successful as I gained over 100,000 followers. Most of my students came from Instagram, leading to a significant expansion of my clientele. The platform became a crucial part of my business, enabling me to reach a wide audience and share my passion for drumming.
Now, I’m focusing on scaling my business further in Dallas. I’m currently working on a drum education website called Paragon Drums, which will be subscription-based. This will provide an affordable option for students who can’t afford my 1-on-1 rate, thus solving another problem in the industry. This journey has been an exciting one, filled with challenges, solutions, and an immense sense of fulfillment.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
At 31, I find myself back in my hometown of Dallas, Texas, after spending a transformative decade in the lively city of Austin. My journey into the world of drumming began with my degree in music, an experience that not only cultivated my passion for rhythm but also connected me with a vibrant community of musicians. Fresh out of college, I found myself touring with different bands, an adventure that soon led me down the path of teaching.
With the knowledge and experience that I have gained, I have been able to re-start my drum lessons business here in Dallas, where I aim to educate and inspire both in-person and virtual students. My teaching method focuses on inculcating the true fundamentals that every drummer needs to be successful. My unique blend of educational background and music theory understanding allows me to provide a comprehensive learning experience that resonates with my students. It’s heartwarming to see how many of my students, after having tried a few other teachers, have found a home with my lessons.
One of my key aspirations is to be a beacon in the field of drum education. I am committed to providing everything an aspiring drummer needs to grow and flourish. My goal is not just to impart skills, but to foster an environment that nurtures self-expression, creativity, and a deep love for the art of drumming. I want people to understand that when they choose my lessons, they are choosing a journey of growth and discovery, guided by a teacher who is dedicated to helping them reach their highest potential.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
How did you build your audience on social media?
I started focusing on how to limit the amount of hours I was spending on creating content, but still making sure I am providing the most value possible. Utilizing quick and to-the-point educational videos allowed my following to grow to over 160,000 between all social media platforms.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cameroncarbone.com
- Instagram: @carbonedrums