Stop Selling Features, Start Solving Problems: The Dominant-Tonic Messaging Strategy for Music Entrepreneurs

As a music entrepreneur, you've probably spent countless hours honing your craft, perfecting your skills, and creating amazing music. But are you equally skilled at communicating the value of your work to potential clients?

Many musicians struggle to attract their ideal clients because they focus on the features of their offer, rather than the problems it solves. Just like a musical composition uses dominant and tonic harmonies to create tension and resolution, your messaging should highlight the challenges your clients face before presenting your solution.

The Dominant-Tonic Analogy

Think of it this way:

• Dominant Harmony: The problem or need your clients experience. This creates tension and anticipation for a solution.
• Tonic Harmony: Your unique offer or solution, which resolves the tension and provides a sense of satisfaction.

Why This Matters for Your Music Business

Let's say you're a music teacher transitioning from one-on-one lessons to group sessions. You might be tempted to simply list the features of your new program: “I offer online group classes with recorded lessons and a private forum." However, this approach fails to address the underlying problems your clients may be facing.

Instead, start by highlighting the dominant harmony – the frustrations of one-on-one lessons:

• Limited practice support
• Difficulty maintaining consistent progress
• Lack of a sense of community

Then, present your group program as the tonic harmony, the solution that resolves these problems:

• Constant feedback and guidance
• Accelerated progress through group interaction
• A supportive community for motivation and learning

Case Study: The Client Who Got It Right

One of my clients, after implementing this dominant-tonic strategy, saw a dramatic increase in enrollment for his new program. He shifted from teaching for $80 an hour to offering a six-month program for $5,000 for new students. And while he offered his current students a discount, some students were even willing to pay full price! The key? He emphasized the problems his clients were experiencing with their current learning methods and showcased how his new program offered a clear solution.

Take Your Music Business to the Next Level

By focusing on the dominant-tonic messaging strategy, you can:

• Increase your perceived value: Attract more clients by highlighting the problems they face and demonstrating how you can solve them.
• Command higher prices: Clients are willing to pay more for solutions that address their specific needs.
• Free up your time: Build a sustainable music business that doesn’t rely on endless one-on-one sessions.

Ready to take your music business to the next level? Book a complimentary consultation with me or one of my team members. We'll help you develop a powerful dominant-tonic messaging strategy that resonates with your ideal clients and attracts them to your unique offer.

Click here to book your free consultation.

Let's unlock your music business's full potential!