There is a particular kind of hesitation piano teachers recognize immediately. A student looks at a note, looks at the teacher, perhaps looks down at the keyboard, and then begins counting from a familiar landmark. The answer eventually arrives, but the music has stopped while the student searches. That hesitation is not a sign that […]
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Three Piano Repertoire Databases to Peruse
As a piano teacher I am always on the lookout for new repertoire for my students. I always love new music showcases and appreciate any presentations or resources that highlight “hidden gems.” The Piano Repertoire Explorer database aims to do just that. From the explanation on the website: “The Piano Repertoire Explorer documents the piano […]
What If Every Note Had a Home? A Story-Based Way to Introduce the Grand Staff – A Guest Post by Dr. Leila Karimi
This method did not begin in a classroom. It began with my daughter, Alla. Alla started piano lessons at five years old and loved them. Her teacher was wonderful, she practiced happily, and by every visible measure the lessons were working. Then, about three years in, I noticed something that stopped me. She could play […]
And the Winner Is…
#1 – Rachel! Rachel, you will receive an email from me with a code for $10 off any purchase in the Teachers Pay Teachers store. Just so everyone can get in on the deal, though, I’ve decided to offer a one-time one-day only coupon code for 25% off any purchase in the Music Matters Blog […]
Win a Free $10 Gift Card to Teachers Pay Teachers!
The vast marketplace Teachers Pay Teachers is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a sale of up to 30% off on Tuesday, September 29! In addition to that, I have a $10 gift card that can be used sitewide that I’m giving away to a special Music Matters Blog reader. Just leave a comment below […]
“Is She Getting Any Better?” – A Guest Post by Harrison Lavins
Sooner or later a parent catches you in the doorway, car keys already in hand, and asks whether their child is getting any better. The answer is, of course, yes. The hard part is naming one thing, on the spot, that would actually mean something to them, and I have fumbled that more times than […]
