Creating an Ethical, Artist-Centered Future for Music Education

When four professional musicians in New Orleans—Mickey Hayes, Jordan Haywood, Finley Coover, and Chloe White—set out to build a different kind of music school, their vision extended far beyond private lessons. They wanted to create an ethical, healthy environment where both teachers and students could thrive, supported by community, artistic excellence, and shared opportunity.

In October 2025, that vision became reality with the launch of the New Orleans Cooperative Music School, structured as an LLC and guided by a worker-owned, cooperative philosophy. Designed to be democratically influenced by its educators, the school prioritizes sustainable livelihoods for teachers while delivering high-quality music education that empowers students to grow in confidence, skill, and creative expression.

As first-time business owners, the founders turned to the Louisiana Small Business Development Center for guidance. Business Consultant Michelle Talbert provided critical early support, helping the team form their LLC, define their target market, connect with entrepreneurial resources such as Propeller, and strengthen their marketing strategy and website structure. With this foundation in place, the Cooperative launched successfully and began attracting both new students and interested instructors.

Though still in its early stages, the school has already created five jobs and engaged a growing network of music educators—an encouraging sign for a mission-driven startup in a specialized creative industry.

Beyond its early milestones, the New Orleans Cooperative Music School represents something larger: a model for how ethical business practices, artistic community, and sustainable careers in the arts can coexist. Through high-quality instruction, collaborative learning opportunities such as masterclasses and group sessions, and a commitment to supporting working musicians, the Cooperative is helping shape a healthier future for music education in New Orleans.

“The LSBDC didn’t just help us start a business—they helped us build something that reflects our values and truly supports both teachers and students. That guidance changed the trajectory of our lives and the community we’re creating.” Mickey Hayes