While it is true that one cannot "own" another person, the Studio owner is stipulating that she has the right to the marketing list for the people who have come to the Studio because of her marketing efforts. That list is very lucrative and at such time as you leave, it can be a touchy subject as to what you can say to students about where you are going. I had a similar clause in a contract when I was an employee of a Studio, before I began renting my own space, and I think it is standard practice. When I worked at a spa, one of the employees -- it makes a difference employee vs. independent contractor -- stole the list of her clients out of the computer and the spa owner actually sued her for it. Don't know what the outcome was, but it's interesting to think about.......

The other thing that this kind of clause gives the owner rights to is a percentage of private lesson/coaching fees generated from "her" students. This was spelled out explicitly in the contract I worked out with the woman by whom I was employed, at my behest. I didn't want to feel like I had to sneak around concerning who I was working with outside of the studio and whether or not I had to pay her a royalty or commission on that time.

There is a common feeling that a contract only serves to protect the employer, but it is a good idea for ALL parties involved.

In my experience, with ALL kinds of clients, those who balk or refuse to sign contracts are the ones with whom you'll have the most difficulty...insist on the contract or don't do business with her...
Gia