Episode Details

When I first heard about group teaching, I wondered how it could possibly provide the same individual attention as private lessons. In this episode, Mandy Goldbach shares how she successfully transitioned her studio to a small-group model, why it has transformed both her students' learning and her business, and what teachers should know before making the switch themselves.

• Mandy shared a brief overview about her music teaching studio.
• How teaching the same private lesson repeatedly inspired her to explore group teaching.
• She explained how group lessons brought more energy and variety to her teaching.
• How multi-level groups allow students to progress at their own pace.
• The benefits of using keyboards and headphones for individualized instruction.
• Why ensemble activities build confidence and strengthen social connections.
• How group lessons help reduce performance anxiety through regular peer performances.
• Mandy described how students learn valuable independent practice skills during lessons.
• The importance of balancing structured teaching with flexible learning.
• She explained why group lessons appeal to today's busy families.
• How group teaching increased both student engagement and retention.
• She shared how investing in keyboards quickly paid for itself through studio growth.
• How group teaching created opportunities to grow her business sustainably.
• She encouraged teachers to experiment with partner or group learning before making a full transition.

Links Mentioned

• Mandy's Website:Crescendo Studio SC
• Mandy's Instagram page:@crescendostudiosc
• Mandy's Facebook page:Crescendo Music Studio SC

Studio Equipment Recommendations

• Keyboard, music stand, pedal:amzn.to/4oYcoRn
• Keyboard stand:amzn.to/4eVWhPs
• Adjustable piano bench:amzn.to/4gXIhqW
• Step stools:amzn.to/4v7Tvwu
• Headphones:amzn.to/4gBtjqP
• Male to female headphone adapter:amzn.to/4wmHK6n

Today's Guest

For nearly two decades, Mandy Goldbach has been equipping musicians of all ages with the skills and confidence to make music a meaningful part of their lives. After relocating from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Greenville, South Carolina, in 2018, Mandy continued building a thriving music studio while serving in worship ministry with her husband and raising their two children. In 2024, she reimagined her studio by transitioning from traditional private lessons to a small-group piano model—a move that has fueled more than 400% growth in just two years. Today, Mandy is a Steinway Educational Partner and an active member of the Music Teachers National Association, South Carolina Music Teachers Association, and Greenville Music Teachers Association, where she serves as Social Media Chair and Co-Chair of Outreach. She loves helping her students discover fresh, engaging ways to learn music while being an active part of the music teacher community.

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano