At a student’s lesson last week, he mentioned that he had performed a few pieces over the weekend for the public. I tried in my calmest, most interested (because I definitely was) tone to inquire as to the nature of the performance, who was there, WHAT did he play?!!! I’d really love to hear some […]
Teaching
My New Piano!
One of my goals this year was to purchase a new piano for my studio. I’m happy to report that this goal has been achieved! (We won’t discuss the rest of my goals for this year, though, ok? :-)) I actually made the purchase at the end of summer, but forgot to fill you all […]
The Art Of Piano: Great Pianists Of The 20th Century
There’s nothing quite like watching the great piano performers of the past play classics by the master composers of yesteryear to inspire continued dedication to becoming and training excellent pianists. At least, that’s how I felt as I watched the documentary, The Art of Piano: Great Pianists of the 20th Century, now available on-line in […]
Dusting Off These Sight-Reading Worksheets!
In conjunction with my practice incentive theme this year, I’ve dusted off this set of Across the C’s sight-reading worksheets that I developed years ago. And you know what? My students are loving them! Something about the range of the keyboard that is used and the perceived initial difficulty make students feel very accomplished when […]
BAM Radio Music Broadcasts
The BAm! Radio Network has recently posted two of the shows for which I served as an on-air commentator. Initially, I actually declined participation in this first one because I hold a different position than the group that was being interviewed. After being assured, though, that the network welcomed and encouraged opposing viewpoints, I agreed […]
Monday Mailbag – Teaching Performance Skills
During your informal performances in group lessons, how do you prepare your students for how to approach the bench and to take a bow afterwards? Do you have them introduce their piece and/or talk about it? I really want my students to become more comfortable with performing for their peers as a ladder-step to performing […]
