09Sep 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP159: Practicing Integrity

PPP159: Practicing Integrity

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
At the end of last week's show, I mentioned an article by Michael Jensen, professor at Harvard Business School, titled "Integrity: Without it Nothing Works."  I thought it was a great topic for a complete show in itself so here we are. You might hear people say that studying piano teaches children so much more than music. You've probably heard me say that. One of my tenth episodes talked about the non-musical benefits of studying the piano. In PPP100 I listed things like listening, problem solving, and coordination. All great things. Today, let's talk about another valuable non-musical concept: INTEGRITY. What does integrity mean to you? I think we can all remember occasions when we encountered someone who lacked integrity. Just this past week I received an email that almost tricked me into…
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02Sep 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP158: How to Actually Make Progress with Playing the Piano

PPP158: How to Actually Make Progress with Playing the Piano

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
As a producer of a podcast, I'm sure it comes as no surprise that I am also an avid listener of podcasts. While listening to Pat Flynn's "Smart Passive Income Podcast" recently, I discovered an interview that adapts extremely well to our piano kids. Listen to the full episode here Pat's interview with James Wedmore In the Smart Passive Income Podcast's episode number 376, Pat Flynn interviewed James Wedmore. I don't know anything about James beyond what he and Pat talked about in their conversation but that alone was enough for me to want to share some insights I gained by listening to them. I think you would enjoy listened to that episode, too. "Knowing isn't the same as having results" When James said this, he was referring to business…
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26Aug 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP157: Teacher Chat – Perfect Pitch with Brianne Lundberg and Cheryl Reeder

PPP157: Teacher Chat – Perfect Pitch with Brianne Lundberg and Cheryl Reeder

Podcast, Teacher Chat
In our sixth teacher chat, Brianne Lundberg, Cheryl Reeder, and I discuss perfect pitch with all its advantages and fun challenges. Listen to additional teacher chats here. Listen to the full episode here Brianne Lundberg Brianne Lundberg chats with us from California. Click her photo to visit her studio website, Musical Bri. Scroll down below to the connect section for a link to her sheet music website, Music and Theory. Cheryl Reeder Cheryl Reeder chats with us from Colorado. Cheryl enjoys using her perfect pitch to accompany choirs and help them sound their best. Click her photo to visit her studio Facebook page. What are some pros and cons of having perfect pitch? Brianne - The ability to hear a melody and transcribe it is a definite positive. Tuning an…
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19Aug 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP156: Musical Mystery Opus 1, No. 2 “What Frank Saw”

PPP156: Musical Mystery Opus 1, No. 2 “What Frank Saw”

Music HIstory, Musical Mystery, Podcast
In the style of Mike Rowe's "The Way I Heard It" and Paul Harvey's "The Rest of the Story" this episode of the Piano Parent Podcast brings you the backstory of one of America's most well-known songs. Listen to the full episode here Resources for this Musical Mystery Songs Sung Red, White, and Blue by Ace Collins Sampler of American Songs by Maymie Krythe Details of the battle at Fort McHenry Lt. Col. Armistead's account of the battle See the Fort McHenry flag https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiVryYnzmdI Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below Ask a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.com Share this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest To help out the show: leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews help other piano parents and teachers find the…
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12Aug 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP155: Happy 3rd Birthday and Student Case Study Chapter 3

PPP155: Happy 3rd Birthday and Student Case Study Chapter 3

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Happy 3rd Birthday!! The Piano Parent Podcast is now 3 years old!! Our first episode aired August 2016 - Episode 000. I listened to that first episode again and it's not as bad as I was afraid it would be but I can definitely tell my editing skills have gotten much better. I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't gotten started three years ago. The title graphic for this show is a picture of me when I was about three years old. Sometimes we think three years is such a long time but when I look at that little three-year-old me, I smile to realize all that she has to look forward to. Listen to the full episode here Because of this podcast I've gotten to talk…
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05Aug 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP154: Don’t say, “I can’t.” Say, “I’ll try.” with Dr. Ruth Pitts

PPP154: Don’t say, “I can’t.” Say, “I’ll try.” with Dr. Ruth Pitts

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
Ruth Pitts is currently the president of Waco Music Teachers Association. She has a B.M.Ed degree from Baylor University, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from George Peabody College of Vanderbilt University. She has just recently retired from McLennan Community College in Waco, where she taught music theory, music literature and piano for over 40 years. She still has a studio of over 30 piano students, and she counts it a joy and a blessing to be able to share her love of music with students every day. Dr. Pitts has served in all of the offices of Texas Music Teachers Association and was on the board of Music Teachers National Association for two terms and has received both the Texas Music Teachers Association and the Music Teachers National Association “Teacher of…
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29Jul 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP153: What is “perfect” anyway!?

PPP153: What is “perfect” anyway!?

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
I love getting mail from you guys! Recently, I received an email from a listener asking how to help her young daughter who is starting to show signs of perfectionism. What a great question! I'm not a counselor or trained at all in the underlying issues that can cause perfectionism but I can offer you my observations from students I've worked with. I often say that I learn as much from my students as they learn from me. Today I will share a few examples. What is "perfect" anyway? Merriam-Webster - "being entirely without fault or defect". In my mind, that's an impossible task and no matter how "perfect" I might think a thing is, someone else will have a different view and be able to find a flaw. When my…
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22Jul 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP152: Repeat Signs Repeat Signs

PPP152: Repeat Signs Repeat Signs

Music Theory, Podcast
Repeat signs are common "road map" tools in music. Being able to repeat a section is much more user friendly than having pages and pages of music to read.Today, we're talking about three levels of repeat signs. Listen to the full episode here Basic Repeat Sign The first repeat sign students tend to be taught is the repeat sign at the end of a piece. This indicates to play the entire piece again. Sometimes there is a second repeat sign - a mirror image of the one at the end - that indicates to only go back to play that section again. Multiple Endings The next kind of repeat "road sign" is often called First and Second Ending. (Originally called prima volta and seconda volta. Volta is Italian for 'time'.) Used…
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17Jul 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP151: DONE is better than perfect, right?!

PPP151: DONE is better than perfect, right?!

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Sometimes, all you can do is all you can do. This episode almost didn't happen. Life is like that sometimes. Listen to the full episode here Links to summer episodes for parents PPP100: Ten Non-Musical Benefits of Studying Music PPP105: The Blessing of Routine Links to Teacher Interviews Usually, an episode ending in 1, 4, or 7 is a teacher interview. I wasn't able to follow the pattern with PPP151 but here are past interviews with teachers. The special thing about all these teachers is that I was able to visit with them recently at the Texas Music Teachers Convention. Vicki Conwy - PPP148 and PPP149 Developmental Fitness Judy Wilkins - PPP144: Learn how important parents are to theri child's success Interview and PPP147: Teacher Chat - Screen Time Beth…
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08Jul 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP150: Ten Screenless Summer Activities

PPP150: Ten Screenless Summer Activities

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
The last three Piano Parent episodes have focused on the value of limiting screen time and increasing physical activity. If you haven't listened to them already, be sure to catch them after you finish this episode. They will inform the thought process behind the list of ten we have for you this week. PPP147: Teacher Chat - Screen Time PPP148: Developmental Fitness with Vicki Conway, part 1 PPP149: Developmental Fitness with Vicki Conway, part 2 Click here to find previous tenth episode lists. Listen to the full episode here 1. Picnic in the park or your own backyard Maybe you pack a lunch together at home or go through the drive-through. Sit at a picnic table or put a blanket on the grass. Going on a picnic can help develop…
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01Jul 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP149: Developmental Fitness with Vicki Conway, part 2: Literacy Skills

PPP149: Developmental Fitness with Vicki Conway, part 2: Literacy Skills

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
DEVELOPMENTAL FITNESS is the development of the neural network which physical movement provides to the brain. Vicki Conway is serious about play. In today's interview, part two of a two-part interview, she shares how important physical activity is for our children's, and our own, brain development. In last week's interview, Vicki talked about Survival Skills; those things the brain will default to when under stress. Unless our body is able to use those skills efficiently, our brain will not be able to access information stored in other areas. Today, Vicki shares Literacy Skills with us. Literacy Skills have to do with three combinations of movement between our arms and legs and how that movement affects cognitive processes. Listen to the full episode here Vicki Conway is a senior lecturer at…
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24Jun 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP148: Developmental Fitness with Vicki Conway, part 1: Survival Skills

PPP148: Developmental Fitness with Vicki Conway, part 1: Survival Skills

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
DEVELOPMENTAL FITNESS is the development of the neural network which physical movement provides to the brain. Vicki Conway is serious about play. In today's interview, part one of a two-part interview, she shares how important physical activity is for our children's, and our own, brain development. Listen to the full episode here Vicki Conway is a senior lecturer at the University of Texas at Tyler. She actively performs in concerts, plays the organ for her church, and maintains a private piano studio as well. Together with her husband, Brett, Vicki founded Conway Music, Movement and Math through which they offer coaching and assessment in a variety of topics including math tutoring, music lessons, and motor skills efficiency. What is Development Fitness? Developmental Fitness is a program that focuses on gross…
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17Jun 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP147: Teacher Chat – Screen Time

PPP147: Teacher Chat – Screen Time

Podcast, Teacher Chat
In our wonderful age of technology, entertainment and information are at the tips of our fingers 24/7. Technology can be a powerful education tool but too much technology can have harmful effects on our children's developing brains. That is the topic of today's chat with Judy Wilkins and Dawn Ivers. Listen to additional teacher chats here. Listen to the full episode here Judy Wilkins Judy Wilkins, NCTM, featured in Episode 144, is a dear friend of mine and a passionate proponent of all things that would build up a child's well-being, including the limitation of screen time. Dawn Ivers Dawn Ivers, featured in Episode 061 and previous teacher chats, utilizes technology in her studio with a specific goal in mind. Growing up in the technology age, Dawn uses technology as…
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10Jun 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP146: Musical Mystery Opus 1, No. 1 “Wishful Thinking”

PPP146: Musical Mystery Opus 1, No. 1 “Wishful Thinking”

Music HIstory, Musical Mystery, Podcast
If you are a regular listener to podcasts, chances are you have heard the popular “The Way I Heard It” written and produced by Mike Rowe. You may remember Mike Rowe as the host of the Discovery Channel’s “Dirty Jobs” program. In his podcast, “The Way I Heard It”, Mike weaves a story, dropping hints about a seemingly obscure event only to reveal, at last, that he is telling the backstory of a well known person or event. His show is similar to Paul Harvey’s “The Rest of the Story” if you listened to radio in the 1970’s.Please listen to Mike Rowe’s podcast after you listen to this story. One, I’m selfish and hope to keep you here and two, his polished story will sound so much better after hearing…
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27May 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP144: Learn how important parents are to their child’s success with Judy Wilkins

PPP144: Learn how important parents are to their child’s success with Judy Wilkins

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
When I first started podcasting in 2016 I was nervous to ask my own piano teacher friends to come on the show. I'm not sure if I was embarrassed or intimidated. Actually, I didn't want to impose on our friendship to ask them for such a favor. Now that I have a few episodes under my belt and feel more confident, I want to share with all of you the wonderful teachers from my own community who have been such encouragement to me personally and professionally.It is my joy to introduce to you my good friend and piano teacher colleague, Judy Wilkins, NCTM. Listen to the full episode here Tell us your piano story. Judy's older sister was an inspiration to her as a child. She learned to play piano, which…
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20May 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP143: Mr. Rogers’ Code for I Love You

PPP143: Mr. Rogers’ Code for I Love You

Music HIstory, Podcast
Do you and your piano kid share code words? Words or a phrase that has a secret meaning between the two of you? My daughter, Tracy and I will do the ASL sign for I Love You when we see each other in a crowded space. Our family also has different references or words that recall inside jokes that would be meaningless to anyone else, one of which is "Furniture Lacks Appliances" (you'll have to ask my son Justin about that!). When I saw the “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” documentary last year I learned about a special number code Mr. Rogers used and I knew I wanted to share it with you when we got to this episode. Listen to the full episode here 1 4 3 = I…
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29Apr 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP140: Ten Things You Need to Know about Performance Butterflies

PPP140: Ten Things You Need to Know about Performance Butterflies

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
Every ten episodes, I present to you some sort of list. This is our 14th tenth episode. If you’d like to listen to other lists click here. Today I am aiming my comments toward the piano kids so I really encourage parents to listen to this one with them. If you are a teacher listening, consider making this required homework for all your students preparing for upcoming recitals. Share this episode with a friend. Stick around until the end where I will tell you about a free practice tracker you can use to help your piano kids get lots of repetitions on their recital pieces. Listen to the full episode here 1. Why Butterflies? Adrenaline is one way your body works to protect you in a dangerous situation. Part of that…
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08Apr 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP137: Teacher Chat – Fingernails and Hand Hygiene

PPP137: Teacher Chat – Fingernails and Hand Hygiene

Podcast, Teacher Chat
In our fourth teacher chat, Beth Horton and I discuss hand hygiene and fingernails.Listen to additional teacher chats here. Listen to the full episode here Beth HortonBeth is a teacher in Lubbock, Texas who teaches in a multi-teacher studio, travels to students' homes, and offers online piano lessons. Beth will be featured in the next teacher interview coming out May 6, Episode 141. What do you expect as far as hand hygiene from your students? Beth - In a word, CLEAN. As for length, hold your hand up and look at your palm, if you see you fingernail over the back of your fingertip, your nails are too long.Shelly - "Biting your nails is gross," ~ Allison Thompson, the most popular girl in my fifth grade class. What problems can…
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01Apr 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP136: No Foolin’! This performer had fans screaming and swooning in the aisle and it’s probably not who you think.

PPP136: No Foolin’! This performer had fans screaming and swooning in the aisle and it’s probably not who you think.

Music HIstory, Podcast
Happy April Fool’s Day! You’re no fool though because you are listening to this wonderful podcast! :) I did try to fool you with the title of this episode. Do you have a guess? What if I told you his fans pulled and clawed at each other trying to be the first to grab something he had touched: a glass or a handkerchief or even a cigar? Are you thinking of Elvis Presley maybe? or Queen with the recent revival of their music (I had a third grader ask me if I’d heard of Bohemian Rhapsody yesterday!) Think of Beatlemania and the franzy of fans at their performance on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1964. Now, go back in time 100 years. Listen to the full episode here Books and…
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25Mar 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP135: Student Case Study: Ray

PPP135: Student Case Study: Ray

Podcast
Today I am introducing a new feature on the podcast, a student case study. In January I started a brand new student. He didn’t transfer in from another teacher or another town. He is shiny, brand new! Starting a brand new student comes with a lot of responsibility. Not only do I want to set him up for success with his technique and musical understanding, but I also want to build a good report with him and build his confidence and self-esteem. Listen to the full episode here First a little background: I first met Ray’s family when I taught his two older brothers; Ray never came to their lessons. Great family. Respectful attentive students. Stopped lessons to transfer to another teacher more conveniently located. I don’t know if they…
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18Mar 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP134: A Truly Inspiring Interview with Teacher, Leah Drake

PPP134: A Truly Inspiring Interview with Teacher, Leah Drake

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
[podcast src="https://html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/9021560/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/187dba/" height="90" width="100%" placement="top" theme="custom"]Click here to download this episode. I e-met Leah online when her studio participated in the PIANOVEMBER Practice Challenge. She runs a vibrant studio, that is actually called Vibrant Valley Music Studio. She is active in her own pursuit of learning to teach her students. In fact, we were just able to book this interview before Leah heads to the MTNA Convention in Spokane, WA. I love the name of her studio, Vibrant Valley Music Studio and I especially love her teaching philosophy, "Nurturing tomorrow's musicians through creativity, inspiration, and community." Listen to the full episode here Resources Mentioned in this Episode Debra Perez “Way Cool Keyboarding” Bullfrog Jamboree by Mayron Cole Jennifer Eklund’s Piano Pronto FM Sheet Music Teacher video recommendation "Things and Wings"…
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11Mar 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP133: What’s really going on when your piano kid says, “This is too hard!”

PPP133: What’s really going on when your piano kid says, “This is too hard!”

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Doing new things can be challenging for all of us. Piano students are asked to do new things constantly. Once they master one concept, another is given to them without pause. Faced with something new, in this case a new musical concept to master or a new song to play, students have to exert a lot of conscious effort. They have to intentionally think about what they want their hands to do. That is hard work! Piano kids will often resist and not even try because they don’t feel they will be successful. Rather than try and fail, they choose to give up. They feel like the music is too hard. Parents can help their kids look at music and their abilities differently. It’s not too hard; it’s too new.…
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04Mar 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP132: How to Build Chords and Inversions

PPP132: How to Build Chords and Inversions

Music Theory, Podcast
In Episode 130 I gave you a list of ten songs that are perfect for playing along with YouTube videos (I've gotten a lot of positive feedback from that episode! Thanks for letting me know it was helpful for you). It occurred to me while recording that episode that I haven’t really talked about building chords and their inversions on the podcast. Build by counting piano keys Many piano kids may be familiar with chords that are grouped by their shape. Major Chords with all white keys: C, F, G. Chords with a black key in the middle: D, E, A. Chords with black keys on the top and bottom and a white key in the middle: Db, Eb, Ab. But what about chords that don’t fit in those groups?You can…
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18Feb 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP130: Ten Songs that are Perfect for a YouTube Play Along

PPP130: Ten Songs that are Perfect for a YouTube Play Along

Podcast, Technology, Tenth Episode List
The last few shows have mentioned playing chords or pop songs or getting creative at the piano in some way. Talking about it is great and your piano kid might really be interested in playing some pop tunes but getting started can feel a little overwhelming. That’s why I put together this list of 10 songs that are perfect to play along with a YouTube video and I have the videos embedded on the show notes for this episode. I chose these songs because most of them use only a few chords (most of them five chords or less) and those chords occur in a repeating pattern throughout the entire song or through a large portion of the song. The basic formula for playing each chord is to have the…
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10Feb 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP129: “Lord of the Chords” Game Developer, Jonathan Ng

PPP129: “Lord of the Chords” Game Developer, Jonathan Ng

Music Theory, Podcast
A few weeks ago I got an email from Sanette Brems, a piano mom in my studio. Listen to Sanette's parent interview with me on Episode 019. In her email, Sanette said, "I saw this and immediately thought of you!" The link in the email took me to the Kickstarter page for a new music theory game called, "Lord of the Chords". Their website declares that they are the "geekiest, punniest music theory game in the world".Lord of the Chords Kickstarter Page - click hereI love puns and really love games that help my students learn and use music theory so I did a little research and was able to contact the developers of the game. Jonathan Ng, one member of the development team, responded to my email and we set up…
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04Feb 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP128: Keep a Video/Audio Journal of Your Child’s Musical Journey

PPP128: Keep a Video/Audio Journal of Your Child’s Musical Journey

Podcast, Technology
[podcast src="https://html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/8495213/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/187dba/" height="90" width="100%" placement="top" theme="custom"]Click here to download this episode. In recent episodes, I've alluded to the idea of keeping a video or audio journal of your piano kid's musical progress. This is a way for them to see their growth as a musician. In today's show, we will talk in more detail about the advantage of keep a video journal as well as  the practical details like equipment and storage. Great Learning Tool The primary reason to video your child is for them to learn from the experience. When we are playing or reading music, our minds are so focused on that activity that we can stop listening to the music we're making. Having a separate recording gives students a chance to hear themselves as the audience or…
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28Jan 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP127: Teacher Chat: Popular Music Styles with Stephen Hughes and Tony Parlapiano

PPP127: Teacher Chat: Popular Music Styles with Stephen Hughes and Tony Parlapiano

Music Theory, Podcast, Teacher Chat
In our third teacher chat, Stephen Hughes and Tony Parlapiano and I discuss popular music styles and the value of incorporating reading and listening when it comes to playing the piano. Listen to additional teacher chats here. At one time, pop music was considered an add-on to traditional, classical piano lessons; something students might do on their own but not something useful to be included in the lesson. Times have changed and teachers are finally noticing the value of including popular music styles in their curriculum. They now see the value of teaching from chord charts and lead sheets or without any music notation at all. Stephen Hughes Stephen is a fellow Texas piano teacher. His grandmother was his first piano teacher when he was four years old. His students…
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21Jan 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP126: Build Practice Habits

PPP126: Build Practice Habits

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Over the break I purchased James Clear’s new book, “Atomic Habits”. I’ve been “reading” it in audio format which has been nice. I had to drive to Dallas for a meeting and had James Clear teaching me his wonderful habit lessons the entire trip. Some of the things he talked about in the book caused me to think of you guys and how we can help our piano kids have more successful practice sessions at home. This may be a little corny but I’ve mapped it out using performance lingo. Today we’ll talk about Setting the Stage, Knowing Your Cue, Making Music, and finally Taking a Bow. Set the Stage One thing James Clear mentions in his book about building new habits is to make them obvious. What does this…
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14Jan 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP125: A Negative Review and the Best Compliment I Could Hope For

PPP125: A Negative Review and the Best Compliment I Could Hope For

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
 I’ve been trying to psych myself up for the new year. Trying to think of helpful topics to share after our two week break. I had the beginning of some ideas (new year’s resolutions and how they apply to piano practice, encouragement for parents getting back into a routine, etc) but I didn't get very far with them. I will see about developing these topics for a future episode but I accidentally got the inspiration for this week’s topic when I looked at one of the reviews on my iTunes account. “I’ve been teaching 15 years and have seen a lot….” I love that, even with 15 years experience, you are still actively learning and growing with your students. I, honestly and truly would love to talk with you and…
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07Jan 2019 by Shelly Davis
PPP124: Going Beyond the Music Lesson with Abigail Peterson & Christine Goodner

PPP124: Going Beyond the Music Lesson with Abigail Peterson & Christine Goodner

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
Abigail Peterson and Christine Goodner are violin teachers in Wisconsin and Oregon, respectively. Together, they host the "Beyond the Music Lesson" podcast.I really enjoyed hearing how things work in their violin studios and learning that their students have similar struggles to mine. I hope you will enjoy the conversation as well. In this week's episode you will learn: How Abbey and Christine got started in violin as players and teachers.Even violin students have to be reminded to practice.Parental involvement is so important to the success of the student. How to help your child “get started” with home practice.Good Attitude Practice Challenge.Why listening is so foundational to learning to play music.What keeps Abbey and Christine motivated to continue teaching.How they never get tired of hearing all the variations of the “Twinkles”.How…
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17Dec 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP123: This is Your Brain on Music – book review

PPP123: This is Your Brain on Music – book review

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
On this week's show, Dawn Ivers and I discuss Dr. Daniel J. Levitin's book, This is Your Brain on Music. Music activates the oldest and newest parts of our brain together The old brain and new brain work together when playing an instrument. (pg 57)Listening to music activates brain regions in a particular order. (pg 191)You may have heard that music is good for the brain, and it’s true. The research shows that both playing & listening to music create more & stronger neural pathways between different brain regions. Melodic Memory is a combination of both abstract and specific. We store both abstract and specific memory of melodies. We pay attention to absolute pitch/tempo, as well as relative pitch/tempo. (pg 165)When we hear a familiar piece that has undergone a…
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10Dec 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP122: Handel’s “Messiah” the IMDB(ish) Story

PPP122: Handel’s “Messiah” the IMDB(ish) Story

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
George Frideric Handel was born in Germany in 1685 to Georg and Dorothea Handel. His father was a surgeon-barber who didn’t want Handel to study music. He wanted him to study law. Handel’s mother helped him smuggle a clavichord into the attic so he could practice in secret. Finally, his father was persuaded by a duke to enroll Handle in formal music training. He did begin the University of Halle, Germany studying law, out of respect for his father, but eventually devoted himself entirely to music. Handel moved to London in 1712, was paid a salary by Queen Anne and became the musical director of the Royal Academy of Music. His London address, 25 Brook Street, which is now preserved as a museum, a permanent monument to his life and…
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03Dec 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP121: Helping Students Learn to Create Music for a Lifetime with Tim Topham

PPP121: Helping Students Learn to Create Music for a Lifetime with Tim Topham

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
It is always such a joy to visit with other piano teachers to learn how things are working in their studio.  It is a special delight to visit with someone from another part of our world. Today, I am excited to share my recent conversation with Austrailian piano teacher, Tim Topham. Tim has a real passion for helping students find "their" music and giving them tools to allow them to create music for a lifetime. If you are a piano teacher, already familiar with the amazing resources Tim shares in the piano teaching industry, I think you will get a kick out of hearing his backstory and the wild journey that brought him to piano teaching. It all started with a small Casio PT-1 keyboard. Resources and Apps Tim mentioned…
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26Nov 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP120: Ten Ways to Share Music During the Holidays

PPP120: Ten Ways to Share Music During the Holidays

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
THIS is the reason you signed your child up for piano lessons! Now is their opportunity to share their gift of music with others to bring them joy. Here are a few ideas for how you can share music during the holidays. 1. Play for a school event. At different times, my students have been able to play for talent shows, choir concerts, and prelude music before awards programs. 2. Play for a church event. Prelude music before a worship service. Offertory or piano solo during the service. Postlude music as people are exiting the church. Play for youth Sunday School class or Bible study. Train them to become future musicians for worship service at church. One student had the blessing of playing "Amazing Grace" at her grandfather's funeral. 3. Teacher…
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19Nov 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP119: Buckle Up, Baste, and Breathe

PPP119: Buckle Up, Baste, and Breathe

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
This week we will celebrate Thanksgiving. Along with that will come the tidal wave of Christmas shopping and events. As we approach the holiday season, it’s a good time to pause and make a battle plan for the craziness that is bound to happen with our schedules. This episode won’t give you any new revelations for balancing everything, I don’t have a magic formula for adding hours to your day or days to your week. It will simply be a reminder to both of us to cut ourselves some slack. We both know these sages of wisdom but we forget in the heat of the moment or in the expectation of perfection. I will intentionally make this episode short for two reasons: We’re both busy….it is the holiday season after…
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12Nov 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP118: Musical Anniversaries and Thanksgiving Tunes

PPP118: Musical Anniversaries and Thanksgiving Tunes

Music HIstory, Podcast
On today’s show I thought I would share with you some of the things I’ve been doing with my students to commemorate a few anniversaries and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. U.S. Armed Forces Songs November 11, 2018, marks the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. With my 4th-grade classes at school, we took one song per week during October and learned a bit about the history of the song and how important music was for rallying the troops and even sending messages with bugle calls. Listen to U.S. Armed Forces Songs here. Disney Songs November 18 is Mickey Mouse’s birthday, the date his first animated short was released in 1928. Happy 90th birthday, Mickey!! My students have really enjoyed playing all the amazing music produced by the Disney…
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05Nov 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP117: Teacher Chat: On Teaching Preschoolers with Mallory Byers and Dawn Ivers

PPP117: Teacher Chat: On Teaching Preschoolers with Mallory Byers and Dawn Ivers

Podcast, Teacher Chat
In our second teacher chat, Mallory Byers and Dawn Ivers and I discuss preschool music with all its advantages and fun challenges.   Listen to additional teacher chats here. Mallory ByersMallory is a teacher in California who travels to her students' homes. About a third of her students are age six and under. She started lessons with her own father at the age of four. Dawn Ivers Dawn's first student was a three-year-old preschooler. She recently moved her home and studio to Kansas. In establishing her studio in her new hometown, she has branded herself as someone who teaches preschool lessons. How can parents know when their preschooler is ready for formal piano lessons? Mallory - If they're interested and able to take directions. They don't have to be counting or…
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29Oct 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP116: How to Change Major to Minor

PPP116: How to Change Major to Minor

Music Theory, Podcast, Practice Challenge
 Happy Halloween! No matter what you choose to do with this holiday, there is no denying that a lot of music we hear this time of year tends to have a more creepy, spooky spin on it and it seems like that’s what I enjoy talking about on the podcast. Last year I talked about how young children tend to respond to music in a minor key. Episode 066 was about the powerful effect music can have on our emotions.I also interviewed Marcia Vahl (like wall), president of the Minnesota Music Teachers Association, in episode 067. On the episode, Marcia talked about the three forms of minor scales. I encourage you to go back and listen to both those episodes.In the past I’ve also talked to you about how I…
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22Oct 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP115: PIANOVEMBER Practice Challenge 2018

PPP115: PIANOVEMBER Practice Challenge 2018

Podcast, Practice Challenge, Practicing and Motivation
Many of you participated in our last Practice Challenge, Fall Into Music back in September. In fact, some of you are using the challenge for the remainder of the fall season. It’s been a lot of fun seeing your piano kid’s pictures on Instagram. Now that November is just around the corner, it’s time to start our next practice challenge. What do you get when you combine piano with November? PIANOVEMBER! Here’s how it works. Students, you will tally one point for every piece you play, every time you play it. You can play review pieces, old pieces, new pieces, memorized pieces, songs by ear, original compositions, or even songs on piano apps. Older students may count smaller sections of larger pieces they are studying.Count tally points when you play…
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15Oct 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP114: Find Your Musical Voice with author Lisa Donovan Lukas

PPP114: Find Your Musical Voice with author Lisa Donovan Lukas

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation, Teacher Interviews
It is a delight to welcome Lisa Donovan Lukas back to the podcast. You can catch her previous interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/091.During that interview Lisa mentioned her book, "The Young Musician's Guide to Songwriting: How to Create Music & Lyrics" and today we get to dig into the details of her book even more. Who is this book designed for? Tweens and teens. Students of this age a making big leaps in their emotional development. They are discovering who they are. They have social challenges at school.Music is a creative and safe way for them to work through emotions: joy, love, relationships, trials. "The Young Musician's Guide to Songwriting" gives them tools to use and learn to work through all the ups and downs of the teenage years. How did the book…
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08Oct 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP113: The Legacy of Van Cliburn, presented by Annette Morgan

PPP113: The Legacy of Van Cliburn, presented by Annette Morgan

Music HIstory, Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Today's guest, Annette Morgan, is a former student of Rildia Bee O'Bryan Cliburn. In today's interview, Mrs. Morgan shares her experiences in Mrs. Cliburn's studio as well as the story of Van Cliburn's rise to fame after he won the first Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, in 1958. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Ann Saslav, a well-respected pianist herself, who was the catalyst for Annette Morgan's presentation to East Texas Music Teachers Association and for today's interview. Ann Saslav interview with Tyler Morning Telegraph Ann Saslav obituary Mrs. Cliburn, piano teacher Rildia Bee O'Bryan was born October 14, 1896. She was a student of Arthur Friedheim who was a student of Franz Lizst. She could have has a successful musical career but she gave up that opportunity at…
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01Oct 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP112: Down in Front! (and other concert etiquette rules)

PPP112: Down in Front! (and other concert etiquette rules)

Podcast
Attending a live, stage performance is different from going to a movie or sporting event. One is casual with a come and go atmosphere, the other is more formal with certain rules you need to know and follow if you don’t want to embarrass your piano kid or yourself. Before the Concert Performance Preparation - make sure you are ready to present a nice gift to the audience. I tell my students the performance is not for them, it is a gift for the listeners. Sometimes this helps relieve some of their performance anxiety. If you are prepared and know your piece inside and out, you will feel more confident to give your audience a beautiful performance. Does your teacher require your recital piece to be memorized? Work diligently to…
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24Sep 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP111: Start With What You Know For Sure, Andrea Miller

PPP111: Start With What You Know For Sure, Andrea Miller

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
I first met Andrea Miller on Instagram when I started following her page, Music Studio Startup. She was announcing the launch of her new podcast so I direct messaged her. Later, she called me, we met face to face when she presented a workshop at the Texas Music Teachers Association Convention last June, and now I consider her a friend. I am grateful to have her on the podcast. Tell us your piano story. We had a piano in the living room when I was growing up and I was a very determined and curious kid, so I tried to figure out how to play it. My mom gave me one piano lesson, where she explained how the grand staff worked and I took it from there. I taught myself…
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17Sep 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano Kid

PPP110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano Kid

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
My kids know when I’m not really listening to them because I will nod and say, “That’s great!” in the wrong places. Sometimes my husband will add crazy made-up details to a story to see if I’m paying attention. We all know what it feels like to be ignored or, worse, to be complimented insincerely. Saying “That’s Great!” or “You’re Awesome” requires little effort on our part and doesn’t really give the confidence boost we think it does. Today I’d like to share with you some compliments I’ve received and that I try to share with my students. I hope they will give you some ideas of how you can put in a little more effort to genuinely compliment your piano kid. 1. "That is my favorite piece" This morning,…
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10Sep 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP109: Practical Tips for Practicing WITH Your Young Piano Kid

PPP109: Practical Tips for Practicing WITH Your Young Piano Kid

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
This week’s show is my answer to a recent question from a piano parent. Beth writes, “What is the best way to help a kindergarten student practice?” Thank you for the great question, Beth!Kindergarten is a wonderful time for students be begin learning to play piano. They are excellent learners, eager to soak up any information we give them. This is a great blessing and a great responsibility for parents.Young children have not yet learned responsibility and discipline or time management and self control. Unless you are actively involved in their home practice, they will not make progress and both of you will become frustrated.Today I’d like to share some things to consider when practicing with your young piano kids. Notice, I said WITH your piano kid. Just like personal hygiene, household…
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03Sep 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP108: Breaking Up is Hard to Do

PPP108: Breaking Up is Hard to Do

Communication, Podcast
Sometimes, through social media, we only see the perfectly positive perception that others portray. On this podcast and on my social media channels, I hope to be honest and upfront with you.A piano family broke up with me last week. I can only speak from my point of view and I will do that in the kindest way possible because... I want to learn. I want to help you (piano teacher and piano parent) avoid common mistakes. I want to resume a relationship with this family if they choose to. Anything I say here I will be very careful to give them the respect and kindness they deserve. I would not be ashamed if this mom heard this episode. Listen to the full episode here Three lessons I learned: 1. I need to nurture…
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27Aug 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP107: The First 24 Hours – Teacher Chat with Dawn Ivers and Becki Laurent

PPP107: The First 24 Hours – Teacher Chat with Dawn Ivers and Becki Laurent

Podcast, Teacher Chat
PPP107: The First 24 Hours - Teacher chat with Dawn Ivers and Becki Laurent Today's episode brings you not one, but two teachers! Today, Becki Laurent, Dawn Ivers and I chat about the topic of practice and the value students receive when they practice within 24 hours of their piano lesson.Becki and Dawn are not strangers to the podcast. You can hear their previous episodes here:Becki LaurentEpisode 037: Teacher Interview with Becki LaurentEpisode 046: Our Favorite Music Education Apps with Becki LaurentDawn IversEpisode 061: The Importance of a Good Practice Environment with Piano Teacher, Dawn IversEpisode 080: Ten Books to Read with Your Piano Kid Listen to the full episode here Today's topic idea came from Becki's session at TMTA Becki presented a session at the Texas Music Teachers Association…
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20Aug 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP106: How to Develop Fluency in Music Reading

PPP106: How to Develop Fluency in Music Reading

Music Theory, Podcast
Today’s topic is specifically musical. The last several episodes have had to do with getting the new school year off to a strong start. We’ve talked about the non-musical benefits of studying piano, being careful not to overbook our child’s schedule, and last week was all about setting up routines. Today, let’s talk about the nuts and bolts of reading music.For a more detailed description of the staff and it’s history, listen to Episode 004. Listen to the full episode here Reading music is like reading any other language I’ve tried to learn Spanish here and there. I know a few words but I always associate them back to English. When I try to read something in Spanish, I’m looking for English clues or associations to help me understand. I…
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06Aug 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP104: Children Need Their Parents To Help Them Through Challenges with Tracy Selle

PPP104: Children Need Their Parents To Help Them Through Challenges with Tracy Selle

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
PPP104: Tracy Selle Piano teacher, Tracy Selle, has been an independent piano teacher in North Texas for 16 years. Listen to the full episode here Tell Us Your Personal Piano Story Started playing in 3rd grade. Became the pianist of my church when I was 13th. Continued that job through high school. Graduated from VA Tech. I did study some music, but ended up focusing on science and became a TV Meteorologist. But still worked at a church pianist on the side. Once my son was born, I knew I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. That’s when I transitioned to teaching piano. Were You A Good Student? Define “good.” Haha! I was REALLY busy with dancing and other activities. I could have practiced more. (Although my mom made sure…
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30Jul 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP103: Manipulation VS Inspiration

PPP103: Manipulation VS Inspiration

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Listen to the full episode here Definitions Manipulation -        handle or control (a tool, mechanism, etc.), typically in a skillful manner.      control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly, unfairly, or unscrupulously.Causing the child to believe that he or she will only be loved by complying with the parent’s wishesCausing the child to feel excessive guilt for failing to live up to the parent’s expectations/demandsWhat does this look like with piano lessons or practice? Shouting at your child to practice or punishing them for not practicingCoaxing them to practice with false praise or excessive “If you loved me you would play that song for me.” “If you practice you can buy…. Or eat…”Comparing your child to others in a way that makes them feel less about…
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23Jul 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP102: Is Squirrel Syndrome Driving You Nutz!?

PPP102: Is Squirrel Syndrome Driving You Nutz!?

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Can you believe that it's already the middle of July?  As we get ready to head back to school and all the opportunities that are offered, I'd like to talk about squirrel syndrome or being too easily distracted. In terms of parenting, I think of Squirrel Syndrome as being compelled to sign our children up for every extra-curricular activity we are aware of. My fear, instead of giving them the opportunity to be successful at any activity, we are causing them, and ourselves, to be pressured and stressed out and stretched too thin. Listen to the full episode here Parents want the best for their children As parents, we want what is best for our children. We want to be able to give them opportunities that we didn't have. We…
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16Jul 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP101: Encouragement for Piano Parents with Cortney Toumayan

PPP101: Encouragement for Piano Parents with Cortney Toumayan

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
PPP101: Encouragement for Piano Parents with Cortney Toumayan Listen to the full episode here Cortney's personal piano story When Cortney was three years old, she discovered her love of music through a popular musical - "The Phantom of the Opera". As she listened to the music over and over, she eventually began to pick out the melody on the piano and her parents decided to try out piano lessons. Over the years, Cortney learned from four different music teachers. She began to seriously consider music as a career when she was 16. However, after being told that music wouldn't be as sustainable, Cortney went into the dental field for a few years before quickly returning to her first love - music.For many, there is a mindset that music is just…
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09Jul 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP100: Ten Non-Musical Benefits of Studying Music

PPP100: Ten Non-Musical Benefits of Studying Music

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
Listen to the full episode here Today, the Piano Parent Podcast is celebrating it's 100th episode!The Piano Parent Podcast has been downloaded 28,821 times from people all around the world. Thank you for listening and thank you for sharing the podcast with you piano parent friends.While this is a podcast milestone, it is also our 10th "10 musical somethings" episode. So today, I would like to give you 10 non-musical benefits of studying music!Over the years I’ve spoken to lots of teachers; some would argue that music is worthwhile simply for the beauty of music. I don’t disagree with them. When teachers at the schools where I teach approach me about using music to enhance their subjects, I get territorial. I encourage them to use music in their classroom for…
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02Jul 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP099: How to know if your teacher is effective, and what to do it they’re not.

PPP099: How to know if your teacher is effective, and what to do it they’re not.

Communication, Podcast
On this day: July 2, 1956 Elvis Presley records "Hound Dog" and "Don't Be Cruel" Every piano teacher is as uniquely different as each child they teach. Teaching methods, learning styles, personalities and more all interact and impact the effectiveness of your piano teacher, your piano kid, and the lessons that they share.Today, I want to talk about a few ways you can determine if your piano teacher is the most effective for your piano kid. Listen to the full episode here Goal Setting as a Tool for Gauging Effectiveness Last week, we discussed "exit strategies". Now that you've had a chance to think your exit strategy for piano lessons, what are some goals you have in mind for you child? What does effective mean to you? Are piano lessons recreational,…
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25Jun 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP098: What is your Exit Strategy?

PPP098: What is your Exit Strategy?

Communication, Podcast
According to the dictionary, the term "Exit Strategy" has three definitions:A method or plan for extricating oneself from an undesirable situationA plan and timetable for withdrawal from a military engagementThe method by which an investor intends to cash out of an investment.Today, I would like for your to consider your "Exit Strategy" or plan for piano lessons?Once you start piano lessons, how long will they last? What will be the reason you decide to stop? If your child seems uninterested, how will you know it is time to quit? Career Strategy Considering what the end will look like determines the decisions we will make and the actions we will take.Once we determine what we "want to be when we grow up" we can set our course to achieve that goal…
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18Jun 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP097: A Jazzy Conversation with Wade Cottingham

PPP097: A Jazzy Conversation with Wade Cottingham

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
PPP097: A Jazzy Conversation with Wade Cottingham Piano teacher, Wade Cottingham, owner of Lakewood Piano Lab near Dallas, Texas. According to his website, he uses his lab as "a place of discovery and growth". He is more than the typical piano teacher who interacts with their students in the traditional sense, Wade creates jam sessions where each student learns to use their musical voice. Listen to the full episode here Wade's personal piano story... While there was a baby grand piano in Wade's childhood home, his mother was reluctant to enroll him in lessons because of the negative experience she had in lessons. He convinced his mom to sign him up for piano lessons but they only lasted three years because he quit to run a paper route. In high…
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11Jun 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP096: On Birth Order & Piano lessons

PPP096: On Birth Order & Piano lessons

Communication, Podcast
The theory of birth order and the impact it has on our children is an interesting thing to consider. I believe it is something to consider regarding piano study as well. Two different points of view These are the two articles I refered to on the podcast:Parents.com article "How Birth Order Affects Your Child's Personality and Behavior"PsychologyToday.com article "Is Birth Order a Myth?"The idea of birth order is simply a theory, it is not a definitive statement of what to expect from your child depending on their placement in your family.More important than the order that your children are born in, your parenting style and your family dynamic will have a greater impact on their personality and their behavior and their success. My experiences with my own children My husband…
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04Jun 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP095: Repetition – Remapping Your Brain

PPP095: Repetition – Remapping Your Brain

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Image source Disclaimer: I am not a neurologist or a brain expert. (My family can testify!) These are simply my observations about what I've read concerning the way our brain makes neural connections and how that applies to piano lessons for our children. Repetition is a very valuable part of learning. This is true for anything you learn and it is especially true for our piano kids learning to play the piano and learning new music. Is once enough? Many students think they are successful if they can make it through to the end of their piece....ONCE! When I was learning to play piano and working on a new piece, I would start at the beginning of the piece and play until I made a mistake. I wouldn't study the…
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28May 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP094: Music is Theraputic with Jeanine Wheeler

PPP094: Music is Theraputic with Jeanine Wheeler

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
Jeanine Wheeler is a piano teacher and music therapist serving the Lubbock, Texas and Abilene, Texas communities. Jeanine's Musical Journey Jeanine comes from a very musical family. Her father plays bassoon, her mother learned cello, her older sister studied violin. Naturally, Jeanine wanted to play an instrument too. Her parents didn't enroll her in lessons immediately but Jeanine was persistent and begged for lessons for over a year. They finally allowed piano lessons to begin then Jeanine was nine years old. Growing up in Michigan, close to Michigan State University, the first college in the country to offer a music therapy program. When Jeanine was twelve, her mother took her to a lecture presented by Dr. Deforia Lane. She also got Dr. Lane's book, Music as Medicine, for Christmas which…
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21May 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP093: What Should You Practice Between Sessions?

PPP093: What Should You Practice Between Sessions?

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
I love taking a break from the routine. Crossing the finish line of one thing and catching a breather before I start the next thing. Even as I type this, I've had a bit of a break from my routine over the weekend.  My older children left for their summer jobs at Pine Cove Camp in the City and Allaso Ranch and my husband was out of town on business. This left my youngest daughter, Tracy, and me to enjoy a girls weekend together.  We were able to focus on our relationship in a different way that we can when everyone else is home. I think the same is true with breaks in piano lessons. Taking a short break offers students a chance to use the skills they are learning.…
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15May 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP092: Post-Recital Reflections

PPP092: Post-Recital Reflections

Podcast
This episode was recorded the day after my 2018 Spring Recitals. My Spring Recitals are held the first Monday and Tuesday of May each year. Now that recitals are done, I've declared this day, "International Post-Recital Lazy Day" and you are welcome that I at least changed out of my pajamas to record this week's show! :) You would think after 28 years of annual spring recitals, I would have this down and wouldn't have any issues or problems. No matter how many times I've done recitals, there is always some new variable and this year was no different. The Problem with Procrastination This year's recital was held in a new venue, First Presbyterian Church, Tyler, Texas. While I've attended many other musical events at FPC, I had never held…
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07May 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP091: Learn about musical career possibilities with Piano Teacher, Lisa Donovan Lukas

PPP091: Learn about musical career possibilities with Piano Teacher, Lisa Donovan Lukas

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
Lisa Donovan Lukas has been a teacher in the Los Angeles area for 15 years. Tell us your personal piano story as well as how you chose piano teaching as a career. I started formal piano lessons when I was about 5 ½, almost 6 years old, and studied classical music with the same teacher until I graduated from high school.  His name was Ed Willumsen and he was an excellent pianist and teacher, and he was also a composer and played popular, contemporary music as well as classical repertoire. As I advanced through classical repertoire, he would also have me play a pop song or a show tune or a standard at the end of the lesson, and he taught me to compose my own original music as well.…
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30Apr 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP090: 10 Positive Messages You Give Your Child When You Attend Their Piano Events

PPP090: 10 Positive Messages You Give Your Child When You Attend Their Piano Events

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
Every tenth episode is a list of ten music-y things Previous lists of ten music-y things include 10 things to watch for when you sit at the piano, 10 books to read with your piano kid, and 10 ways to encourage a love of music. To see the full list of tenth episodes, click here. Every year private piano teachers host piano recitals My studio recital is the cherry on top of the previous school year. I use it to recognize all the accomplishments my students have achieved throughout the year. To learn more of what I value in annual spring recitals, read this blog post. Recitals offer students an opportunity to showcase their newly acquired skills, listen to other students play interesting music, and share their love of music with…
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22Apr 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP089: Making Music Together

PPP089: Making Music Together

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Here is the link to the Facebook live stream from the 2018 Helen Elbert Chamber Music Festival hosted by East Texas Music Teachers Association. The bulk of piano study is isolating for piano students. They practice alone and take their lessons alone.  Finding opportunities to collaborate with other musicians can be a big benefit to piano students. A few ways you can collaborate with other musicians: Boomwhackers Duets with other piano players (siblings should proceed with caution LOL) Piano ensemble Playing with other instrumentalists: piano/violin, piano/flute, piano/guitar, piano Even playing the same piano piece with another student takes a great deal of coordination and concentration. When you play with other musicians.... you must keep a steady beat. Solo pianists often slow down or stop to fix mistakes. you learn to…
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16Apr 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP088: This One is Dedicated to the Piano, of course!

PPP088: This One is Dedicated to the Piano, of course!

Podcast
How could Episode 88 be about anything other than the instrument that brings us together every week? The piano! Listen to the full episode here Resources on the history of the piano: We first told you about a book explaining the history of the piano in Episode 080: Ten Books to Read with Your Piano Kid"The Music of Life: Bartolomeo Cristofori & the Invention of the Piano" by Elizabeth Rusch.The Metropolitan Museum: The Pianos of Bartolomeo Cristofori  Resources on the design of the modern piano:Steinway & Sons About Page"Every STEINWAY & SONS grand and upright is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and a consummate work of art. Each STEINWAY piano, consisting of more than 12,000 individual parts, has its own musical character and is as unique as the individual who plays it."Steinway & Sons Artists Profiles I am not a piano expert but I found…
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09Apr 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP087: Practice Until You’ve Practiced

PPP087: Practice Until You’ve Practiced

Podcast
A Wise Puritan Proverb A few weeks ago my pastor shared a quote from John Bunyan, the author of The Pilgrim's Progress. "You can do more than pray, after you have prayed, but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed." Over time that quote has been condensed to "Pray until you have prayed." How do you know if you've prayed enough? Pray until you have prayed. With the idea of piano practice - How do you know if you've practiced enough? Practice until you've practiced. Practice until there is marked improvement. One quick side note: Episode 87?? My how time flies! Let's hear it for the Canton High School Class of 87!! I didn't mention this on the podcast (so this is a special treat only for…
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25Mar 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP085: Looking at the Big Picture with Piano Teacher, Nicole Douglas

PPP085: Looking at the Big Picture with Piano Teacher, Nicole Douglas

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
PPP085: Looking at the Big Picture with Piano Teacher, Nicole Douglas Piano teacher, Nicole Douglas, has learned how to look past the symptoms of children not wanting to practice or try new music. She looks deeper and searches for the underlying causes, which may surprise most people. Resources mentioned in this episode Coursera Piano Teacher Institute with Joy Morin National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy (NCKP) Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Episode 042 with Piano Parent, Beth Hughes Piano Pronto Series with Jennifer Eklund NinGenius Nicole recommends listening to the 3rd Movement of Beethoven's "Moonlight" Sonata https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqSulR9Fymg Nicole recommends listening to Chopin's Nocturne Op. 9, No. 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDSxPiFOrEY Connect with Nicole Douglas Nicole Douglas Music Nicole's Blog "Connected Life Learning" Facebook Twitter Instagram
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19Mar 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP084: The Power of Dynamics

PPP084: The Power of Dynamics

Music Theory, Podcast
The Power of Dynamics In addition to all the other concepts your piano kid learns when they study piano - Piano Geography, Understanding the Grand Staff,  and Rhythm Patterns - they must also learn how loudly and how quietly to play each note. (more…)
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26Feb 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP081: March Photo Challenge

PPP081: March Photo Challenge

Podcast, Practice Challenge, Practicing and Motivation
March Photo Challenge - but first, an introduction Being a podcaster, I'm sure it comes as no surprise to you that I enjoy listening to lots of podcasts. Lately, I've been bingeing on James Clear. Although James is not a podcaster, (he's a blogger and you can find him at JamesClear.com AFTER you finish listening to my podcast!) he is invited to guest on many podcasts, especially those about productivity, habits, fitness, and entrepreneuring. One podcast I listened to the other day focused on one of James' blog articles, "The Difference Between Professionals and Amateurs." You can read the whole article here. He starts the article with this paragraph: I've started to notice (partially because of my own failures), that there is one skill that is so valuable that it…
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12Feb 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP079: Hear Music, Play Music, Read Music

PPP079: Hear Music, Play Music, Read Music

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Hear Music, Play Music, Read Music I was reading this article on Psychology Today about whether music is a universal language or not. Here is the checklist I found at the National Institute of Health. You can compare your young child's development with the typical progression of skills. Music is a language in the sense that it helps convey emotions by changing pitch, rhythm, and tempo.  Like any language, it can be learned by hearing and experiencing before it is read or written. Piano lessons often get this progression backward. We, teachers, tend to gravitate toward reading music, using books. Here is the episode I mentioned, Episode 075: Piano Doodling. Tips for Supplementing Hearing and Playing Music Listen to music in the car Sing in the car Listen to Episode 010:…
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22Jan 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP076: Helping Your Child Deal with Anxiety

PPP076: Helping Your Child Deal with Anxiety

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
 How can you help your child when they are dealing with anxiety, particularly performance anxiety?Part of the learning experience for musicians is performing before an audience. We might sign our piano kid up for a piano recital, playing for grandparents, a piano audition or festival, a talent show at school or even playing for church. Anytime there is a performance opportunity, it stands to reason that your child will be a little anxious. Listen to the full episode here In fact, public speaking or performing is one of the top fears for most adults. You can read more about this in this article.As parents, how do we know how far to push our children? Are we asking them to do more than they are capable of doing? How do we strike…
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15Jan 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP075: Piano Doodling can be more beneficial than you might think

PPP075: Piano Doodling can be more beneficial than you might think

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
[caption id="attachment_1133" align="alignleft" width="800"] #pianodoodles[/caption]  Listen to the full episode here Giving your child freedom to doodle at the piano is more beneficial than youmight thinkThe next time you hear your piano kid creating and improvising on the piano keys consider giving them more time to do that before you redirect them back to their assigned pieces.Creativity & DiscoveryLearning to read a piece of music begins externally. Creating sounds on the piano begins internally.Stumble upon familiar melodies and play pieces by ear - melodies at first and then harmonies to go along with the melody.Create your own fun and you'll never be boredImprovementListening - creating original sounds at the piano helps your piano kid develop a stronger sense of listeningHand efficiency - students learn to use their hands more efficiently when…
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08Jan 2018 by Shelly Davis
PPP074: Music Makes Beautiful Children

PPP074: Music Makes Beautiful Children

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Welcome back and Happy New Year 2018! This is the time of year when we evaluate our lives and see where there is room for improvement. It is also a great time to set goals or set a new determination to reach goals we've already set. Listen to the full episode here My goal for my children as they grow and mature and become independent adults is for them to be happy, healthy, and contributing members of society. Learning to play the piano and make music was a big factor in achieving that goal. (more…)
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04Dec 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP071: Is There Hope for Your Non-practicing Piano Kid? Piano Teacher, Nicola Cantan, says Yes!

PPP071: Is There Hope for Your Non-practicing Piano Kid? Piano Teacher, Nicola Cantan, says Yes!

Podcast, Teacher Interviews
Is there hope for your non-practicing piano kid? Are they going through a season of no motivation to practice?Are they needing some new music that they are passionate about learning?Nicola Cantan shares the value of great music and encouraging parents in today's show.Nicola Cantan is a piano teacher from Dublin, Ireland.Nicola readily admits that there was a time in her younger years as a piano student that she didn't practice as much as she should have. This should be music to the ears of piano parents with children who are struggling to get to the piano. Help them get through this season and spur them on with engaging music and positive feedback. Listen to the full episode here In addition to being a passionate piano teacher, Nicola is also a…
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27Nov 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP070: Ten Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Piano Teacher

PPP070: Ten Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Piano Teacher

Podcast, Tenth Episode List
[caption id="attachment_1048" align="alignnone" width="410"] 'Tis the season for gift-giving and letting your teacher know how much you appreciate the influence they are having on your child's life.  On this 70th episode of the Piano Parent Podcast, I will share with you some of my favorite Christmas gifts and why some piano teacher might prefer something else. Listen to the full episode here (more…)
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13Nov 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP068: When it Comes to Piano Practicing, the Best Defense is a Good Offense

PPP068: When it Comes to Piano Practicing, the Best Defense is a Good Offense

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
Newsflash: Parenting is hard Piano Parenting doesn't make things easier. When it comes to piano practicing, a good piano parent is prepared when their piano kid puts up an argument. The next time your piano kid tries to get out of piano practice, give these offensive maneuvers a try. State the Facts Because you've listened to past episodes, you know that it's best to schedule piano practice ahead of time. When practice time rolls around, simply tell your piano kid, "It's time to practice." There is no need for argument, no need to negotiate. Expect them to push back and try to get you to wait until later. Don't fall for it. You know that "later" will only bring more complaints and stalling. Do the practicing now and enjoy other activities…
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30Oct 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP066: Major and Minor – The Powerful Effect Music has on Our Emotions

PPP066: Major and Minor – The Powerful Effect Music has on Our Emotions

Music Theory, Podcast
Music is everywhere and it has a powerful affect on our emotions This time of year, unusual sounding music is all over shopping malls, television shows, and even commercials. Those sounds can be frightening for young children. While I am not a child psychologist, I do want to share, mom to mom, some of my experiences working with children and music. Parents are the filter for their children First of all, you must decide what types of music you allow your child to hear. Protect them from sounds and lyrics that will be too frightening for them. Even when you share music that you feel is safe for your child to hear, they may still shudder at eerie and unusual sounds. They will take their cues from you. If you…
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23Oct 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP065: A Chat with Note Rush App Developer, Thomas Grayston

PPP065: A Chat with Note Rush App Developer, Thomas Grayston

Music Theory, Podcast, Practicing and Motivation, Technology
[caption id="attachment_951" align="alignleft" width="660"] Graphic created by Dawn Ivers[/caption] Thomas Grayston is a software developer from Tasmania, Australia. He has produced an excellent app to help piano students learn to associate notes on the staff with specific keys on the piano.   Tell us a bit about your background. Are you a musician or a teacher? Thomas plays piano and was a music director for church. His wife, Kylie, teaches piano and Thomas helps in her studio from time to time. (more…)
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09Oct 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP063: PIANOVEMBER Practice Challenge

PPP063: PIANOVEMBER Practice Challenge

Podcast, Practice Challenge, Practicing and Motivation
#3020 September Practice Challenge Recap Before I jump into our next piano practice challenge, I wanted to share the ups and downs of the September Practice Challenge. Ups: There was a lot of positive feedback from parents and teachers alike. I received wonderful videos and photos of students working toward their practice goals. 27% of my own students met the challenge with success! I even met the challenge myself!! (I wouldn't have if I hadn't taken time to plan my practices and put them on my schedule.) Downs: Several of my students not only missed the goal of 20 days practice, they hardly practiced 10 days for the whole month. No wonder they're not progressing like they could. Some students were traveling and had other family outings that made getting all their…
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11Sep 2017 by Shelly Davis

PPP059: The One With My Piano Tuner

Communication, Podcast
Dan Kessinger has been tuning my piano since 2000. Dan, who is completely blind, learned the Piano Technician trade during his high school years at a school for the blind in Little Rock, Arkansas. Listen to the full episode here Dan places red relt between the strings to prepare to tune. In addition to the felt, Dan also uses two sizes of wedges to be able to reach between the multiple strings. Dan uses a tuner lever (tuning hammer) to tune each of the approximately 230 strings. For maintenance of your acoustic piano, Dan recommends the following: Find a good, qualified tuner. Check the Piano Technician's Guild website for a tuner near you. Hire a tuner to check over a piano you are interested in purchasing. Clean the surface of the…
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04Sep 2017 by Shelly Davis
PPP058: Use Your Talent for the Good of Others (aka Hurricane Harvey Relief – How you can help)

PPP058: Use Your Talent for the Good of Others (aka Hurricane Harvey Relief – How you can help)

Podcast, Practice Challenge
Hurricane Harvey was a Category 4 hurricane that made landfall on the coast of Texas Thursday, August 24 In less than four days, the storm dropped 40 inches of rain in south Texas, whose average amount of annual rainfall is 49.72 inches. The resulting flooding has caused massive damage to the homes and businesses in that area. I am a proud Texan, born and raised. Texas is a BIG place and my home is many miles away from the storm and flooding. My family is safe. (more…)
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31Jul 2017 by Shelly Davis

PPP053: How to Choose Supplemental Music for Your Piano Kid

Podcast, Practicing and Motivation
If you do a search on Google for "Why to read piano sheet music" you will find lots of blog posts and websites telling you how to read music but not why reading lots of music is so important. On today's show, I will share my opinion of why reading music is so important for your child's musical development, what to look for when choosing supplemental music, and where to shop online for piano music. Listen to the full episode here Why reading sheet music is so important Build fluency - The more music your child encounters, the more opportunities they have to practice the musical skills they are learning. Become more independent - Students need to learn how to decipher and interpret music independently from their teacher. They need to learn to listen…
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24Jul 2017 by Shelly Davis

PPP052: Advice for Piano Parents from Piano Parents

Parent Interviews, Podcast
  Over the last year of producing this podcast, one of my favorite things has become the parent interviews. I have really enjoyed chatting with parents from my studio and other studios to learn how they motivate their children and help them face the challenges that come with piano lessons. One of the last things I ask them is to share their experience and offer words of advice for parents of new piano students. This week I've put together a compilation of all the answers from parent interviews so far. (more…)
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