In general, being independent is so liberating, you get to create without someone looking over your shoulders.

Anytime you have to sacrifice your art, or integrity, it's a bad deal, no matter what they're offering.

Kids are great in that they keep you on your toes. They're like a puzzle... in a blender, haha. You have to take the pieces out and try to put it together on the fly.

Many people think you shouldn't stop kids from being kids, and I agree, but no one wants the worst case scenario on their hands. Better safe than sorry I say.

I've had some parents ask me to do private birthday parties for their students, which I can't do, but it's an honor that they even ask. I love the feedback I get from parents on my music, it's so awesome.

I have friends with deals, both major and indie, and the ones on majors never seem as happy, and quite frankly aren't making music as strong as those on independents.

People with education get out of the classroom as soon as they can and jump into administration or higher ed, there just needs to be some motivating factor for teachers to stay in the classrooms and excel. It's that simple.