One of my favorite things to do is read a good book! Last year, I posted a list of recommended biographies, compiled from my own reading and recommendations from other Music Matters Blog readers. This year, I thought I would share several reviews of music-related books I read last year. I always want to read […]
What’s the Purpose of Your Studio?
In the latest newsletter from Character First!, column writer Gene Linzey asks the question, “What’s the Purpose of Your Business?” He shares the responses he received from several business owners and then reveals what he considers the correct answer: To serve others without a selfish motive. I was immediately compelled to ask myself the same […]
The 5 C’s of Learning Piano Technique
The longer I teach, the more convinced I am that good technique is one of the most important areas for beginning students to develop. That’s why it’s so important for parents to seek out an excellent teacher for their beginning student. The techniques they learn (or don’t learn, as the case too often is) can […]
Monday Mailbag – What to Do When Students Aren’t Ready for the Recital
I’m frustrated with students that have the ability and time to have their recital songs prepared by the performance date, but do not. I am considering “recital contracts.” If the students are not completely prepared two weeks before the recital date, they will not participate. How does this sound to you? This is a tough situation. […]
Recital Repertoire Pop Quiz – Free Worksheet
Thanks to the inspiration of Sarah Lantz, of the Piano Discoveries Studio, I decided to surprise my students with a pop quiz at our Christmas Recital rehearsal. I just put together this simple Recital Repertoire Pop Quiz worksheet that I handed out to each student as they arrived – in exchange for the book with […]
Check It Out! Noteworthy Happenings on the Web!
Support the Rhythm Ruler Project Music educator and double bass player Peter Tambroni has developed an ingenious rhythm ruler that resonates with music students. He is looking for funding to get his project off the ground and into the hands of other music teachers and students. You can support his efforts for as little as […]
