Perhaps one of the sweetest students I’ve ever taught, Luke is the one who would remark in awe at how much time I must have spent planning various activities or thank me enthusiastically for helping him with something. In his early years of piano lessons, as a 7-year old boy, I remember him looking up […]
Inspirational
Guiding Students to Become Independent Learners and Musicians
The more I learn about Classical education, the more I am inspired to help my students become effective learners in every area of their studies. After reading this insightful post by Katherine Fisher, one of the authors of my absolute favorite piano method (Piano Safari, in case you didn’t know :-)), I am contemplating ways […]
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 […]
AMT Inspiration – Create A Feeling
Several times this past year in both my teaching and my performing I have recalled a comment by Time for Three from their interview in the December/January issue of the American Music Teacher magazine. When discussing the variety of genre the group performs, Ranaan Meyer includes this in his response: “Ultimately the reason an audience […]
AMT Inspiration – Be Meticulous
We have had a wonderful year of learning and growth in our studio, perhaps none more so than myself! I am continually challenged and inspired to improve my understanding of what it means to be an excellent teacher, and how to implement new ideas into my teaching. As usual, each issue of the American Music […]
Teaching Students to Practice Their Instrument More Effectively
In his always-informative newsletter, Gerald Klickstein, author of The Musician’s Way, linked back to his post on Beautiful Repetition. I love his four points: Insist on Excellence Reject Mindless Repetition Aim for Growth Rather than Sameness Evaluate Continuously Visit his post for an elaboration and specific ideas for each point!
