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What does your business do?
I teach kids (ages 6-18) to sing in front of live audiences. My main goal is to build self-esteem and not necessarily turn out the next American Idol. I do have some great singers - but I have lots of young people who can get on a stage and perform through their training with Singing Solo.
When and why did you start the biz?
I started by business in 1996 because I had such low self esteem when I was a teenager and knew that music is what got me through. When I took voice lessons as a teenager I asked my teacher where I could sing...and she said she didn't have time for that. So - that is what motivated me to do what I do. I find places for my kids to perform.
How Many People are in your Company?
Just me right now
Where's your office?
Currently - my office is in the back of my garage in a private room. I would like to open an office so I can support more students and include a small recording studio so the kids can record themselves. I have so many projects going on - my office is very cluttered and I need more space.
What's the toughest part of running your biz?
Running the technical part of my business - I'm not good at running the sound system and at the same time, keeping the kids on track as far as their performing needs. I need a roadie.
What's the most fun part?
I LOVE hearing the kids sing and seeing how their self esteem improves through singing and performing. I used to enjoy singing myself but now find more enjoyment in watching them grow and develop. It's great!
Anything you would have done differently?
No - I was married - went back to college - my husband left me - and now I'm having to be more serious about my business. My ex didn't want me to continue my small business when we were married - but now that I'm on my own - I wish I had been more serious in the beginning - but he gave me a lot of restrictions.
What's next on the horizon for your biz?
I am gaining students rapidly and I need more space. I would like to hire a voice teacher to work with the kids (or 2) and spend more of my time setting up performances and doing recordings.
What advice do you have for others?
Never give up...if you are passionate about something...keep going. Don't let others (like ex husbands) tell you that you can't do something. I know that my business is unique and that I will succeed. I just can only handle so many students in my current situation.
How do you use Idea Cafe to help your biz?
I need others help in knowing where to go next. I am anxious to see what others have done so I can do those things for myself.
School (where, still in school, degree)?
San Diego State University - Music/Psychology
Prior jobs or business?
Stay-at-home-mom.
Favorite Food?
Pizza
What are your pets' names?
Kona, Maui, Joey & Ginger
Do any of these pets help with your biz?
Kona is a doberman and she just makes sure the people that come by my house are honest and good people.
Is there any one person or event in your life that led
you to go into business for yourself?
Just this drive within me. I've always loved working with kids and self esteem was such a big issue for me in my life - that I don't want other kids to have to suffer. Also - music has been there for me in all times of trouble, sadness, distress - it's great therapy!
Anyone you publicly want to thank?
I wish my dad were still alive. He would like what I do.
Contact Info:
Kathy Horeth
singingsolo@cox.net
Website:
http://singingsolo.net |
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