Today we’d like to introduce you to Adella Carlson.
Adella, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am first and foremost a musician. When I finished my MM in Clarinet Performance, I worked as an Administrative Assistant in a school of music for two years. During this time, I was also building my business, Adella Carlson Studios. My business began as a clarinet and piano studio offering online lessons to students throughout the United States. Over time, I grew deeply unhappy in my job and burned out on teaching lessons after work every evening. Eventually, I discovered virtual assistance, and had the idea of creating a virtual assistant service specifically for musicians. This is when The Musician’s Assistant, now the main part of my business, was born. Today, I support 20 clients throughout the USA and Canada, and work alongside them in their own music businesses.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being an entrepreneur does not come without its challenges. While there are always specific, small things popping up day to day, the primary struggle is internal, mental. Most musicians are familiar with imposter syndrome, the feeling that you don’t deserve to be where you are, your success is a fluke, and sooner or later everyone will find out you’re a fraud. These feelings are also a challenge as an entrepreneur – worrying that your idea won’t catch on, that your business model won’t be sustainable, that every rejection is a sign you should quit and do something easier, that your success won’t be consistent in the long term. At the same time, choosing this challenge is more empowering and rewarding than I even imagined.
As you know, we’re big fans of Adella Carlson Studios, LLC | The Musician’s Assistant. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The Musician’s Assistant is a virtual assistant service created for musicians by a musician. I specialize in general admin and business operations for classical musician entrepreneurs. Because I am also a musician, there is little to no onboarding necessary when I begin working with a client. I am able to immediately jump into their businesses with them as a partner in support of their growth. My clients almost always see increased revenue – while working less themselves – within our first year of partnership.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Performing is still a significant component of what I do as well. I am a section clarinetist of the Piedmont Wind Symphony and a founding member of the Chaos Incarné Clarinet trio, both of which are based in the Triad.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.adellacarlsonstudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adellacarlsonstudios/ | https://www.instagram.com/themusiciansassistant/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579562936223
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adella-carlson-1452941b4/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adellacarlson
