Get Started with Chopin Academy of Music
What experience do I need to own a classical music education franchise with Chopin Academy of Music?
Owning a franchise with our brand requires a mix of leadership, organizational skills, and a shared passion for delivering exceptional music education. While prior music or performance experience isn’t required, franchisees without it need to appoint someone with music expertise to oversee operations. Ideal candidates are positive, charismatic, and responsible, with the ability to train and manage a highly qualified contracted workforce. Our ideal candidate (in addition to what is listed) would have a master’s degree in music performance. Or, failing that, an operating principal who meets the minimum music education requirement and a stake in the company no less than 10%. Financially, franchisees should meet specific benchmarks, including a minimum FICO score of 720, 30-40% of the estimated initial investment (see below) in liquid assets, and a net worth of at least 90% of the initial investment. Whether you plan to operate and teach full-time or designate a manager and added instructors to help guide your business growth, it’s crucial to align with Chopin Academy of Music’s vision for quality and consistency in education.
What is provided as part of the Chopin Academy of Music franchise program?
Franchisees benefit from comprehensive online training in addition to training at our headquarters, covering operations, student engagement, marketing, and more. We also assist with pre-opening tasks such as Academy setup, ordering instruments, and planning for your grand opening. After launch, ongoing support is available for daily operations, marketing, and continued education. Franchisees also receive access to our confidential operations manual for step-by-step guidance on daily operating procedures and best practices.
What is the most challenging aspect of running a Chopin Academy of Music franchise, operationally?
The reputation of the Chopin Academy of Music stems from its highly skilled and dedicated faculty. One of the key challenges in running a franchise is ensuring the continued excellence of your teaching staff. If you do not have a background in music, this is why we require an operating principal who meets our music candidacy requirements. This individual will play a crucial role in identifying, evaluating, and guiding potential instructors—many of whom will seek opportunities to teach at your franchise. Ensuring that only the most qualified and passionate educators join your academy is essential to maintaining the high standards of our brand.
How much will the Chopin Academy of Music franchise program cost me?
The estimated initial investment ranges from $196,250 to $493,625, which does include the franchise fee of $40,000. Specific costs vary based on location size and build-out requirements. Please refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for a detailed breakdown of costs.
Is financing available?
Chopin Academy of Music does not offer direct financing. However, we may provide referrals to third-party financing sources who can help secure funding based on your individual financial needs.
Are there ongoing fees?
Yes, franchisees pay an 8% royalty fee based on gross revenues. This fee supports ongoing operational assistance, marketing programs, training, and system improvements. Additionally, franchisees contribute 1% of gross revenues to the brand development fund, with flexibility to increase to 2%.
Are there advertising fees?
Franchisees are required to allocate $1,000 per month for local marketing, with a potential annual increase of 10%. Additionally, franchisees must spend between $5,000 and $10,000 on grand opening promotions. For detailed advertising requirements, refer to the FDD.
What is the term of the agreement?
The initial term of the franchise agreement is ten years, with two options for renewal of five years each.