James Koertz has become one of my go-to arrangers for hymns and Christmas songs. I love his vibrant arrangements that fit the hand well and are easy to learn, pleasing to the ear, and fitting for nearly any occasion. He has a new arrangement of Joy to the World that is available for free for […]
Teaching
Melodic Dictation Piano Game a Hit at Group Class!
This is a simple game that trains the ear, is laid out visually, and engages the students in a tactile activity – so it incorporates three learning styles at once! Each student needs a magnetic dry erase board and marker, some magnets, and a transparency sheet with a printed staff (or they could hand draw […]
Highlights from the Kansas Music Teachers Association Conference
One of the highlights of my teaching year is attending our Kansas state music teachers conference. Partly because I get to catch up with my good friend and colleague, Lisa, along with other piano teachers from across the state. Partly because it’s an opportunity to take a short road trip and explore a new place […]
The Best Musician Wellness Decision of the Year
In the piano pedagogy world over the last couple of decades, musician wellness has become an oft-discussed issue. And for good reason. I had numerous friends growing up who had to give up their piano playing and performance aspirations due to injury. I’m grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to learn from fabulous presenters and […]
Teaching From the Wall – Save 20%!
Over the years I’ve been amazed at how much my students have gleaned in music theory knowledge just from the walls of my studio! For a long time, I had the Discover Music set of posters (which sadly appears to be unavailable anymore…) in the waiting area outside my studio and during lessons students would […]
Review and Giveaway of Rock the Boat by Rebekah Maxner
They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Whoever “they” is. However, if you did so in regards to Rebekah Maxner’s newest piano book for early elementary students, Rock the Boat, you’d be justified. Every piece is as delightful as the colorful illustration on the cover suggests! The student parts are truly simple […]
