University Workshops & Residencies

Preparing Musicians for the Career They’re Actually Going to Have

Conservatories build technique and artistry—but often miss the real-world skills musicians need to thrive after graduation: time management, income strategies, professional communication, and work-life balance.

Opus Freelance Music Coaching fills that critical gap.

With years as a performer, private studio builder, clinician, and former arts administrator, I create workshops rooted in the freelance musician’s reality.

No outdated advice. No one-size-fits-all. Just honest, high-energy, actionable guidance you can use now.

Workshop Topics

Each session is modular and can be adapted to fit a single class visit, a half-day event, or a multi-day residency. Here are just a few of the most requested topics:

Career & Income Design

  • Multiple Income Streams for Musicians

  • Building & Scaling a Private Teaching Studio

  • Gig Planning & Portfolio Careers

    Professional Branding & Communication

  • Networking Without Cringe: Building Connections that Matter

  • Crafting a Professional Bio & Online Presence

  • Pitching Yourself for Gigs, Projects, and Jobs

Organization & Systems

  • Time Management & Scheduling for the Self-Employed

  • Budgeting Without Burnout: Financial Literacy for Freelancers

  • Digital Tools that Actually Save You Time (and Sanity)

Mindset & Strategy

  • Resilience & Boundaries in the Gig Economy

  • Making the Transition from Student to Professional

  • Redefining Success on Your Terms

Residency Add-ons & Customizations

For multi-day residencies, consider adding:

  • One-on-one student coaching sessions

  • Small group labs (e.g., build a 3-month freelance plan)

  • Faculty sessions on supporting emerging freelancers

  • Panel-style Q&A with student-led topics

Who is this ideal for?

  • University and conservatory music programs

  • Career development offices in the arts

  • Entrepreneurship courses or certificate programs

  • Studio classes seeking professional development enrichment

  • Music education departments preparing students to teach and freelance

Workshop Booking & Availability

Workshops run year-round, including summer intensives—customized to fit your school’s schedule and needs.

Schedule a strategy call to discuss formats, availability, and pricing.

Let’s prepare your students to graduate not just artistically skilled, but career ready. to begin a conversation about formats, availability, and pricing.

Jarrett Bastow

Bassist, Educator, Coach