The Landscape Has Changed
Gone are the days when a paper notebook and a smile were enough to run a profitable music studio. In 2025, parents expect digital convenience—online payments, automated reminders, and a professional portal.
What to Look For
When comparing software options like MyMusicStaff, Duet, or generic tools like Excel, pay attention to these three "deal-breaker" features:
1. "Set and Forget" Billing
Many tools still require you to click "Send Invoice" every month. Look for autopilot billing. HarmonyHub, for example, charges the parent's card on the 1st of the month automatically. No clicks required.
2. The Student Portal Experience
Does the student portal look like it was built in 2005? If so, your perceived value drops. You want a modern, mobile-friendly interface where students can access their links and notes easily.
3. Pricing Transparency
Beware of "per student" fees that punish you for growing. HarmonyHub's flat pricing means your profit margins actually increase as you add students.
The Verdict
While spreadsheets are free, they cost you hours. Specialized software pays for itself by saving you ~5-10 hours of admin work per month. That's time you can spend teaching, practicing, or just resting.