“How can I motivate my students to practice piano at home?” This is a question parents and piano teachers have long reckoned with. Today, this challenge is even greater thanks to technological developments. Let’s face it – smartphones, tablets, and computer games are more exciting than the average practice book. But distracting devices needn’t be […]
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Review and Giveaway of Piano Safari Level 3
Even though I believe that a good teacher can effectively utilize any method or curriculum to help a student achieve success, there is something invigorating about having well-designed resources that capture a teacher’s philosophy and vision for their teaching. That’s how I’ve felt about Piano Safari ever since it’s debut a couple of years ago. […]
The Interval Dice Game
Last week Claire made it to the Game Hut for her final stop in Jungle Expedition (our practice incentive theme this year). She had such a fun time that on her Year-End Evaluation today she suggested that we include a game at the end of each lesson to review a concept learned. This prompted me […]
Using Animals to Teach Piano Technique
Sometimes I feel a bit like the odd one out as a piano teacher who isn’t equal parts animal lover. But it’s true. I’d probably rather practice scales than pet your cute little kitten, no matter how soft it is, or how adorable it sounds when it purrs. That said, there’s something different about a […]
And the Winner of Little Gems for Piano Is…
#21 – Lisa Smith #32 – Alondra McEldowney Congratulations, Lisa and Alondra! You both should have received an email from me with instructions on how to claim your copy of “Little Gems for Piano” by Paula Dreyer. But, thanks to Paula’s generosity, everyone has a chance to get their own copy of one or both […]
AMT Inspiration – Work Ethic
This observation by Bruce Berr in the February/March 2016 issue of the American Music Teacher magazine resonated with me: The work ethic that was typically championed by parents, “Whatever you do, do your best” has been replaced in more families with “just have a good time.” Since music study requires a steadfast focused commitment of […]
