RETAILER ASK THE HOW DO YOU TACKLE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SEASON?
“Starting in November, [the year prior], I tabulate all of our rentals that we did over the course of the previous season to calculate how many instru- ments to buy for the next year. These orders are placed as ‘master or- ders’ with our vendors. Our store tries to take advantage of extended dating terms for this rental fleet, as they’re a long-term asset. Prior to summer, we insure our book and accessory orders are placed and that our custom-imprinted folders and music stands will ar- rive in time. Over the summer months, we’re busy repairing all the instruments, and our team balances the workflow so that all the instruments are ready in time. Early July, we hire about five temporary workers to act as ‘rental temps.’ They help with our rental displays at schools and in-store, as well as demo events. By late July, we’re hopping busy all the way to Labor Day.” Leslie Stirm, President Instrumental Music Center Tucson, Arizona
“By late June, we get most of the year’s rent- als back. We’ll spend the summer cleaning those up and refresh- ing the accessories for the 2025–2026 season.” Brian Higgins, General Manager Bill’s Music Catonsville, Maryland
“Back-to-school at our lesson studio is particularly challenging with schedule changes and new families starting up lessons or students coming back from summer break. It has so many moving parts that it can feel like the shell game, where you have to guess which cup the ball is under. Be patient with yourself if you happen to choose the wrong cup. My best advice is to try to be prepared as far in advance as you can be and to write down everything. Refer back to your lists and schedules each day.” Cathy Terranova, Studio Manager & Teacher J Sharp Music Los Lunas, New Mexico
“Our back-to-school season begins in January with forecasting. [We] order instruments early, receive [them] and ensure they’re ready to rent or purchase. Accessories and method books will follow — making sure that we know what the teachers require, especially new educators. We also take time to review with our team the shortfalls that occurred last season and make improvements to ease the stress of this busy time. We want to be ready to welcome all the smiles of these youngsters and parents who are new to music.” Rick Hanson, President & CEO SM Hanson Music Salina, Kansas
62 I MUSIC INC. I AUGUST 2025
Powered by FlippingBook