PPP361: Practice Only on Days that End in Y
"Practice only on days that end in Y." It's playful, it's catchy, and it makes you laugh at first. But when we dig deeper, this phrase offers a profound truth about growth, mastery, and commitment. It’s a reminder that the journey to excellence doesn’t happen just on the days we feel motivated, or only when things are convenient. It happens every day. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Join the FREE practice challenge at www.PIANOVEMBER.com. Get your PIANOVEMBER practice tracker here. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at…
PPP360: Ten Ways to Handle Teacher Absence
On the podcast, we've talked about what to do when you have to miss a lesson but we've never talked about how to respond when your teacher needs to take an extended absence.Using my family's circumstance from this past year, here are ten ways my students responded when I had to take a two-week break during the semester. Listen to the full episode here Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare…
PPP359: Find the Joy in Little Things, a parent interview with Crystal Boyack
Crystal Boyack is a leader in early childhood violin pedagogy and the best selling author of Wee Violin: Music for Young Violinists Preparatory to Twinkle. She currently teaches at the University of New Mexico’s Lab School and runs a private studio teaching Suzuki Violin and Music Together in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She loves spending her time gardening, doing yoga, and spending time with her husband and four young children. On today's show, Crystal shares some of the joys and frustrations of parenting four musical children. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Connect with Crystal: Crystal Boyack Music Studio website Learn more about Crystal’s Wee Violin books. Follow Crystal on Instagram Listen to the other interviews mentioned on today’s show with Christine Goodner and Andrea Miller Listen to Crystal's teacher…
PPP 358: Helping Parents Frame Music as a Gift, Not a Chore with Crystal Boyack
Crystal Boyack is a leader in early childhood violin pedagogy and the best selling author of Wee Violin: Music for Young Violinists Preparatory to Twinkle. She currently teaches at the University of New Mexico’s Lab School and runs a private studio teaching Suzuki Violin and Music Together in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She loves spending her time gardening, doing yoga, and spending time with her husband and four young children. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Connect with Crystal: Crystal Boyack Music Studio website Learn more about Crystal's Wee Violin books. Follow Crystal on Instagram Listen to the other interviews mentioned on today's show with Christine Goodner and Andrea Miller Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to…
PPP 357: Teacher Chat with Becki Laurent and Clinton Pratt: Artful Dodges in Piano Lessons
What's your best deflection technique? Sometimes I'll answer a question with another question to avoid giving an uncomfortable answer.What's your piano kid's best deflection technique? Do they try to memorize all their music to avoid sight reading? Do they blame the metronome when they aren't able to play along with it?Learn some common "artful dodges" in today's teacher chat with Becki Laurent and Clinton Pratt.Click here to find other teacher chats. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in the show Notation resources for arranging and orchestration:SibeliusNotionNoteflightMusescoreMetronome resources:Sound BrennerSpeakbeatSuperMetronome Groove BoxBecki shared these stickers from Trevor and Andrea Dow's Teach Piano Today website:Hand Position Labels Keyboard Labels Key Labels Practice Routine LabelsTo find hundreds of other printable resources visit www.TeachPianoToday.com. Connect with ... Reach out to Becki Laurent atStudio…
PPP 356: The Groundhog Day of Piano Lessons
Do you ever feel like you're living the same piano lesson week after week?Listen to today's show to learn some reasons why music is re-assigned at the lesson and how you can help your piano kid keep moving forward. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show History of Groundhog DayLessons from the Screenplay: Groundhog DayI Got You Babe music at SheetMusicDirect.com Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question…
PPP 355: Take Inventory of Your 168-Hour Week
Listen to the full episode here 24 hours each day, 7 days every week.We all have 168 hours each week. If we're not careful, those hours will get filled with other people's agendas. Now is the time to take inventory of your schedule and make time for the things that are important to you. Resources mentioned in today's show Watch the companion video:https://youtu.be/8fgP4Z3L3_Q 168-Hours Worksheet Complete the form below to get your own copy of the 168-Hours Worksheet in either printable or digital from. Download the FREE168 Hours WorksheetUse this handy tool to get a clear picture of your weekly calendar so you can schedule time to practice on the days between lessons. Your teacher will be so proud!Send me the worksheet!Built with ConvertKit Social Sharables Click an image to…
PPP 354: “No Book Beginners” with author and TopMusic.co Founder, Tim Topham
In today's episode, author and international teacher of piano teachers, Tim Topham shares his approach to music learning in his new book, "No Book Beginners". Rather than stifling your piano kid's enthusiasm for piano by slowing down music-making with foreign terminology and symbols and expecting them to learn to read music before they expore the interesting sounds the piano can create, Tim's book offers a different approach. Get your piano kid creating music and exploring sounds right from the first lesson! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Listen to previous conversations between Tim and Shelly: TTV066: The Piano Parent Podcast with Shelly Davis PPP 121: Helping Students Learn to Create Music for a Lifetime with Tim Topham TC 248: Building Community with Piano Parents and…
PPP 353: What To Do When You Don’t Practice
Listen to today's episode to hear my suggestions for what you and your piano kid can do about your piano lesson when you've gone the whole week without spending time at your own piano. Listen to the full episode here Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! 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: Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast player. Leave an honest review…
PPP 352: What to Expect in the First Year of Piano Lessons
Welcome new Piano Parents! If you and your piano kid are new to the wonderful world of piano lessons, you may be wondering what kinds of things they will be learning during this first year. Today's episode gives you a few things to expect. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! 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…
PPP 351: The Value of Reading to Your Piano Kids with Author, Vicky Weber
Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for children’s literature. All her current titles are based on her background in music education or her heritage. While she has taught a variety of grade levels, primary-level education is where her passion lies. It has long been a dream of hers to teach children through the magic of books and she hopes you love reading her works as much as she loved writing them. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Find Vicky's books everywhere books are sold!Amazon Vicky Weber BooksVickyWeber.comConnect with Vicky on Instagram(I started my Vicky Weber collection with the three books Vicky highlighted on today's show: Lazlo Learns Recorder, The Song Garden, and Rhythm Rescue.) Social Sharables Click an image…
PPP 350: 10 Ways to Scare Your Piano Teacher
'Tis the season for all things orange, yellow, brown, and a little scary. Today's list offers ten things that are likely to scare your piano teacher. Some are silly and some are serious, but all are things you might encounter with your piano kid. Listen to the full episode here Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo help out the show:Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast…
PPP 349: How to Make Your Piano Kid Fail Proof
We do everything we can, as parents, to set our kids up for success at the piano. We pay for lessons, drive them to their lesson, provide them with an instrument to practice. What steps should we take to help our piano kids overcome failure? How can we make their piano journey "so simple, plain, or reliable as to leave no opportunity for error, misuse, or failure"? Learn how in today's episode. Click the play button below. Listen to the full episode here Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast.…
PPP 348: Find the ‘1’ – Helping students feel the steady beat and find the downbeat in music
Today's episode offers help for those piano kids who have a difficult time feeling the steady beat of music. Some children can feel the beat but they aren't yet able to discern the downbeat, the start of a new measure.If a child has trouble feeling the steady pulse of music they listen to, they will have even more trouble trying to reproduce a steady beat in the music they play. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show iReal Pro App - "Master your art by practicing with the world’s most versatile virtual band, tirelessly accompanying you in any style, tempo or key."From the PPP Archives:Episode 029: Steady Beat vs RhythmPPP269: Music Maker – RhythmPPP212: The Importance of Note Values – Musical Speech Patterns Social Sharables Click…
PPP 347: Brock Chart with My-Melodies Publishing (sometimes our trajectory changes with the flip of a coin)
Enjoy this delightful conversation with Kansas piano teacher, award-winning composer, and founder of My-Melodies Publishing, Brock Chart.Brock Chart is a composer and studio owner in Kansas. Brock composes in many genres and mediums including jazz, pop, educational piano, and film music. He is a proud alumni of KU and was 2022 Composer of the Year by Kansas Federation of Music Clubs.Brock was awarded twice in DownBeat Magazine for composition in large jazz ensemble writing, and small group writing. He was an honorable mention in the 2017 NY Youth Symphony Commissions for his piece, “Down to the Wire”. Brock also composed music for the MoMA’s short film series, “How to See” which was in BFI’s “Best Video Essays of 2019”. Since 2020, Brock composed and published six books through his company, My-Melodies Publishing: Five-Finger Jazz!…
PPP 346: ICYMI Replay Musical Mystery Opus 1, No. 1 “Wishful Thinking”
200 episodes ago, I published my first musical mystery. I'm sharing it again today to prepare for the upcoming 200th anniversary of one of this composer's greatest hits! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Visit the original show notes for PPP 146 here. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo help out the show:Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast player. Leave an…
PPP 345: Time to Clean Off Your Piano
As we gear up for a new school year and a new semester of piano lessons, this is a great time to declutter your piano or keyboard. Let's do it together! You can clean off your piano while you listen to this episode! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show PPP 329: Spring Cleaning Our Music BagsPPP 003: Piano Geography (How I use the little dogs and cars to teach the names of the piano keys)Note Speed Card GameTheory Time Wacky 8ths Card Game Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great…
PPP 344: “Make Space for Your Child’s Experiences” A Parenting Do Over with Ashlee Young
Back in March, I interviewed Ashlee Young (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/324). When the official interview was over, I asked Ashlee if I could ask her one more question."Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a 'Do Over'?"So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…
PPP 343: “Navigating Different Perspectives” A Parenting Do Over with Thomas Grayston
Back in February, I interviewed Thomas Grayston (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/321). When the official interview was over, I asked Thomas if I could ask him one more question.“Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a ‘Do Over’?”So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…
PPP 342: “Extend Compassion….to your children and to yourself” A Parenting Do Over with Dr. Fernanda Nieto
Back in October, I interviewed Fernanda Nieto (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/314). When the official interview was over, I asked Fernanda if I could ask her one more question.“Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a ‘Do Over’?”So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…
PPP 341: “Avoid Misinterpretations” A Parenting Do Over with Stephen Hughes
Back in August, I interviewed Stephen Hughes (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/304). When the official interview was over, I asked Stephen if I could ask him one more question.“Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a ‘Do Over’?”So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…
PPP 340: Ten Takeaways for Piano Parents from My Recent TMTA Conference Experience
Every June, our Texas Music Teachers Association hosts a conference for teachers, students, and parents. It is one of my favorite weeks of the year!I thought I would use this tenth episode to bring you along with me to the conference and share a few parent takeaways.Click here for more tenth episode lists. Listen to the full episode here Free Ear Training ResourceCameron Dennis (from PPP 208 and PPP 275) shared his free online ear training site.You can check it out at www.LionTheory.com.National Endowment for the ArtsDr. Jane Chu presented our opening key note address. She was the chair of the NEA from 2014-2018. Her key note was a great reflection on the accessibility of the arts these days compared to the pre-internet days.How are you being intentional about offering…
PPP 339: “Before you leap…” A parenting do over with Cher Kretz
Back in September, I interviewed Cher Kretz (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/309). When the official interview was over, I asked Cher if I could ask her one more question."Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a 'Do Over'?"So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…
PPP 338: “Amazing Doesn’t Have to Be Hard” – My TEXtalk Presentation at the annual TMTA Conference, June 2023
Each year at our Texas Music Teachers Conference, we host our version of the well-known TEDtalks. We call them TEXtalks. I was honored to have been invited to be included in this year's presentation, "Amazing Doesn't Have to Be Hard." Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Susan Connor and Sherry Frush belong to Abilene Music Teachers AssociationTeresa CrawfordDarcy Radcliffe's Revolution Strings' videoTexas Music Teachers AssociationDr. Hisashi NikaidoHypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your…
PPP 337: My First Piano Sheet Music with Author, Emily Norris
One of the best ways to help a child learn to play an instrument is to get them singing familiar tunes. When your piano kid is able to sing a song, playing it on an instrument is exponentially more successful.On today's show, we meet with an author who understands this fact very well. Emily Norris has written a new book of piano sheet music to help young children begin learning to sing and play familiar songs on the piano and she is here to tell us all about it. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Pre-Order Emily's books: https://ebnmusic.com/books/Penguin Randon House: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2285112/emily-norris/Connect with Emily:On Instagram @ebn.musicOn YouTube Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in…
PPP 335: Piano Parent Summer Survival Kit (My first book on Amazon!)
Hot off the presses....I just released my first book on Amazon and I'll tell you all about it in today's episode.Sum·mer ˈsəmər/ nounthe warmest season of the year, in the northern hemisphere from June to August and in the southern hemisphere from December to February.the time of year when many piano students backslide with their hard-earned piano skills. Sur·viv·al sərˈvīvəl/ nounthe state or fact of continuing to live or exist, typically in spite of an accident, ordeal, or difficult circumstances.how piano parents feel when struggling to prevent the aforementioned backsliding.Kit kit/ nouna set of articles or equipment needed for a specific purpose.this book: a source of rescue and ideas to help aforementioned piano parent when struggling to help aforementioned backsliding piano kid. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Get…
PPP 334: Chrissy Ricker’s Summer Piano Review Challenge Calendars
Keeping in line with last week's episode about summer reading, this week we get to hear from Chrissy Ricker who has developed summer piano review challenge calendars. Listen as Chrissy shares some of the highlights from her summer activity calendars and how they can help keep your piano kid musical engaged this summer. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Get Chrissy's Summer Review Challenge Calendars HERE.Check out Chrissy's website and blog and other resources at www.ChrissyRicker.com.Listen to Chrissy's first appearance on the podcast: PPP 264: Level Up Your Video Game Music with Composer Chrissy RickerThese two books were hits at my spring recital this year!Easy Rocking the ClassicsRocking the ClassicsChrissy's latest releases on www.PianoPronto.comHere is Chrissy's www.MusicNotes.com catalog, including "Peaches" from the Super Marios Bros…
PPP 333: Summer Reading
Summertime is a great time to take a much-deserved break! It's also a great time to catch up on reading or, at least maintain your reading capabilities. The same tactics that help new readers to read library books will also work for piano kids learning to read new music. Find some helpful tips for reading both kinds of literature on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Social Shareables Click an image to share directly to your Pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image is not branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment…
PPP 332: Leveling Up from Accidentals to Key Signatures
Making the jump from accidentals which mark each note that needs to be altered to key signatures placed at the beginning of each staff can be difficult for some students.Learn how you can help your piano kid level up on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show To find previous episodes about key signatures click here.PPP 249: Music Maker - ScalesPPP 162: Enharmonics - the There, Their, They're of Music Notation Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To…
PPP 331: Technique is a tool that serves performance with Ken Thompson
In today's show, Ken Thompson shares valuable insight into piano technique. "Technique is a tool that serves performance. If you use the tool in performance, you are able to be free musically, to express yourself, and to send a musical message to your audience. In order for that to happen, the tool needs to be reliable." Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Music Studio Startup - Ken's interview with Andrea Miller, Snapshot 001Beethoven's "Moonlight" Sonata, 3rd movement. I thought you would enjoy this compilation of 24 pianists performing the iconic piece Ken mentioned in his piano journey. See if you can notice the different ways the performers use their full bodies to make such a large, expressive sound.Thomas Mark's book, "What Every Pianist Needs to Know…
PPP 330: Ten Things for the Day of the Recital
Keep this list handy for any time your piano kid participates in a studio recital or piano event. These are wonderful things you can do to make this important day as stress-free and calm for your piano kid (and your whole family) as possible. Listen to the full episode here Download your free Recital Checklist! Send me the Recital Checklist!Subscribe to get the checklist plus our latest content by email.SubmitWe respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.Built with ConvertKit Social Shareables Click an image to share directly to your Pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image is not branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks…
PPP 329: Spring Cleaning Our Music Bags
I am amazed at the things students collect in their music bags. I've seen everything from books and music that was completed long ago to old theory tests and worksheets to candy wrappers from my prize box. Once I even found a banana that was well past its expiration!So many odd items creep into my own music bag. Exactly why do I have three types of breath mints, two lip balms, and seven hair ties?!?On today's show, let's clean out our music bags together. Listen to the full episode here Watch the companion video https://youtu.be/rWHBkQ6MPkISee more videos on the Piano Parent YouTube channel. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please…
PPP 328: This mom did everything right and they still quit
Sometimes, no matter how much you want your piano kids to enjoy their lessons and learn to make music, they just don't get it. Sometimes, even if you've done everything right, they still end up quitting.That's the topic of today's show. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Spring 100 practice trackersPPP 002: The Parent/Teacher Relationship Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo…
PPP 327: Teacher Chat: Hobbyist vs. Career Musicians with Joellyn Andrews and Janna Williamson
Your musical goals have a big impact on the teacher you select and how that teacher will go about teaching you to play the piano.Some of our piano kids are doing lessons for a season, without the intention of pursuing music in college or as a profession while others have different long-term plans.To join me in this chat, I invited two well-respected teachers - Joellyn Andrews and Janna Williamson - with vastly different teaching styles to offer parents a teacher's perspective on how to help students meet their musical goals.Click here to find other teacher chats. Listen to the full episode here. Joellyn AndrewsJoellyn Andrews is a popMATICS instructor and owner of PianoHub. She has been teaching piano for 24 years with a focus on interest-led learning. Janna WilliamsonPianist Janna…
PPP 326: Musical Mystery Opus 4, No. 2 “Turn out the lights, the party’s over!”
In the style of Mike Rowe’s podcast “The Way I Heard It” and Paul Harvey’s radio show “The Rest of the Story”, this episode of the Piano Parent Podcast brings you the backstory of a musician or song or a moment in music history. I use these musical mysteries to tell you something you might not know about someone or something that is somewhat familiar.I’m sure you’ve heard the expression, “Where words fail, music speaks”- a quote by Hans Christian Andersen. Today’s musical mystery will tell you the story of an occasion where words could have gotten you fired so music was the only way to communicate.In this instance, an even more timely quote might be Victor Hugo’s “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.”…
PPP 325: “We need to leave early from the recital.”
This is a busy time of the year. To avoid schedule conflicts and the urge to do all the things, parents need to be proactive, set priorities and make difficult decisions for their piano kids.Listen to today's show to learn how. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show FREE Spring 100 Practice Trackers are HERE.March 29th is the 88th day of the year - PIANO DAY!! Join me for a fun PIANO DAY Project. Check it out HERE. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank…
PPP 324: Work Smarter, Not Harder with Ashlee Young
Ashlee Young is a piano teacher with a passion to help musicians plan more effective and efficient practice sessions. In today's interview, she shares how you can move from reading individual notes to more lengthy phrases in the same way we progress in reading letters, words, and sentences. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show This is the reel that sparked our conversation today:https://www.instagram.com/reel/CmlsjBRgnek/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linkFollow Ashlee Young:Ashlee Young InstagramAshlee Young YouTubeAshleeJYoung.com Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave…
PPP 323: PIANO DAY Project and Music Cryptography
March 29 is the 88th day of the year - PIANO DAY!!To celebrate one of our favorite days of the year, we are going to do a fun Piano Day Project where we will encrypt a secret name in our special, one-of-a-kind melody.Learn how in today's show! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show PIANODAY.orgYouTube videos you might enjoy:Musical Espionage and the BACH motifMusical Cryptograms: the Easter eggs of classical musicHow Beethoven accidentally contributed to free Europe in WWII Download the first step of our PIANO DAY Project here Plot your own cryptographic melodyDownload the Alpha-numeric code to create a melody using your name or a fun secret message.Send me the worksheetWe respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.Built with ConvertKit Social Sharables Click an image…
PPP 322: The Grand Staff and a Ta11 Tale
Once upon a time, I read or heard a story about the grand staff. I share it with my students and today I'll share it with you. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Clefs in Gregorian ChantOrigin Tales about the Grand StaffPPP 004: Understanding the Grand Staff Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo help out the show:leave an honest review on Apple…
PPP 321: Note Rush, 2nd edition with App Developer, Thomas Grayston
We first met Thomas Grayston, the genius developer behind the popular note identification app, Note Rush, back in 2017. (You can listen to that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/065)Today, he is back to share some exciting updates to the app including new themes, customized decks of notes, and helpful hints while playing the app. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Thomas Grayston's previous PPP interview: www.PianoParentPodcast.com/065Note Rush App website: https://www.noterushapp.com/Note Rush on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noterush Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share…
PPP 320: Ten Things Piano Parents Love About Piano Lessons
Every episode that ends with a 0 includes a list of ten somethings.Since tomorrow is Valentine's Day, this list gives you 10 things piano parents love about piano lessons.Listen to other tenth-episode lists here.What else would you add to the list? Listen to the full episode here Foster a love of music Learning to play the piano fosters a love of music that they can have the rest of their lives because they were exposed to how it was put together and understand it. Cognitive growth Playing the piano and reading music aids in cognitive growth.Spatial reasoningAbstract conceptsHand-eye coordinationHand-hand coordination A gateway to other instruments One mom responded this way, "Learning piano is a gateway to other instruments. It helps them understand rhythm, and piano is the basis for all…
PPP 319: Reflections on last week’s episode
I really enjoyed talking with Winston Hall last week. One of the things he said really struck me and I've been thinking about it ever since. He said, "Reading music is the most analytical way to make music." and that wasn't how his brain was wired.My brain actually feels safer and more confident with the music, in fact, I feel frozen if I don't have music in front of me; I don't know what to play! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Winston Hall's interview: PPP 318: Wrong Note Right: The Story of an Accidental Piano Man Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link…
PPP 318: “Wrong Note Right: the Story of an Accidental Piano Man” with author, Winston Hall
Winston Hall is a self-proclaimed "below-average piano student" who was able to overcome obstacles that might have stopped most people - the inability to read music, his own self-doubt, and debilitating stage fright. Winston is now one of the most popular entertainers in the Northwest Lousiana area.This is an episode that you will bookmark and listen to again and again and share with your piano parent friendswe Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Get Winston's e-Book "Wrong Note Right: The Story of an Accidental Piano Man" on AmazonWinston Hall Music on YouTubeFollow Winston on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/winstonhallmusic/From the PPP Archives:PPP 091: Learn about musical career possibilities with Piano Teacher and Composer, Lisa Donovan LukasPPP 065: A Chat with Note Rush App Developer, Thomas GraystonPPP 275:…
PPP 317: Preparing to Start Piano Lessons
If you're waiting to start piano lessons, this is the episode for you! Potential students reach out to me for lessons but I often don't have a space available. Many times, they opt to wait for my short-term summer session and start the process of waiting for piano lessons to begin.In today's show, I'll share three things that piano parents can do to make good use of this interim time: think about your goals, build anticipation, and start a regular practice habit - NOW. Listen to the full episode here Think about goals What do you want to learn through learning to play the piano?A stronger connection to music - appreciation and creationPPP 205: Marvin Blickenstaff talks about Shaping the SoundPPP 204: Dr. Kathy Koch shares your piano kid's "8…
PPP 316: Make Regular Practice Part of 2023
In last week's episode I quoted Art L. Williams Jr. “Remember, before you can be great, you’ve got to be good. Before you can be good, you’ve got to be bad. But before you can even be bad, you’ve got to try.”Today, let's focus on the trying aspect of learning to play the piano. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show James Clear's book, Atomic HabitsUse my 168 Hours chart to plot out your schedule and make an appointment with yourself and your piano. Complete the form below. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all…
PPP 315: Allowing for Miskates, er, Mistakes
My list of 22 for 2022 turned out to be a list of things I failed to do. When I look back on it, I don't celebrate the things I was able to finish, I just feel defeated by the areas where I missed the mark.Rather than aiming for perfection, I think it is good for our children to see us make mistakes and move on, gracefully. Our mistakes shouldn't devastate us and our kids need to learn to give themselves the same kind of mercy.In this P3 episode, we talk more about helping our piano kids to allow for mistakes in their piano practice. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Ten Ways to Overcome PerfectionismPPP 272: My List of 21 for 2021 (recaps 2021…
PPP 314: Mindfulness and Breathing with Dr. Fernanda Nieto
After dealing with everything we have over the last two years, our brains have gotten really good at facing problems and anxiety - maybe too good. We might have accidentally trained our brains to be hyperresponsive to uncomfortable circumstances. On today's show, Dr. Fernanda Nieto shares some wonderful ways to help our brains and our bodies to relax and breathe. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Reach out to Fernanda on her website for a copy of her presentation notes and additional resources.www.FernandaNietoPiano.comConscious DisciplineBig Life JournalMoovlee videosGoNoodle Flow"Growing Up Mindful" book by Christopher Willard Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this…
PPP 313: It’s okay to have fun!
Inspired by a quote from Agatha Christie, this episode reminds us all to enjoy the journey and allow ourselves to be a little ridiculous. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Blooming Bluegrass FestivalHere's the page from my daily inspirational calendar with the quote from Agatha Christie. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo help out the show:leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.…
PPP 312: Music Alphabet – Counting by 1s, 3s, and 5s
Everything your piano kid has to do with music: reading music, finding the correct piano keys, eventually building scales and chords, and putting chords together in a sequence, all of that stems from understanding the basic seven notes of the music alphabet.Learn some fun activities you can do with your piano kid to help them master this concept. Listen to the full episode here From the PPP Archives PPP 003: Piano Geography (aka Do not, under any circumstances, buy those cheesy music alphabet stickers!)PPP 004: Understanding the Grand StaffPPP 013: Magic Wand Part 1 (a much better name than "Linear Circle of 5ths")PPP 132: How to Build Chords and InversionsPPP 172: Scale Degree Names Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to…
PPP311: Rock Climber, Kelley Yuan Talks About Facing Challenges
So much of the time, we focus on dealing with anxiety and performance jitters with the assumption that everyone has them. It was so refreshing to have this conversation with someone who actually enjoys facing challenges and learning how to overcome obstacles.Kelley Yuan is a software developer by day but she is also a pianist and enjoys a very interesting and challenging hobby: rock climbing.Listen to her inspiring outlook on life and how she views challenges with interest and curiosity. Listen to the full episode here See Kelley in action on the rocks Videos like this one made me cheer for Kelley and groan at every failed attempt.Kelley's Instagram reel of "fails"I'm so glad she shared a success video too!She reached the top! See Kelley in action at the piano…
PPP 310: Ten Things I Learned Through Acquiring My New-to-me Piano
My studio was recently gifted with a Baldwin Hamilton baby grand piano and I am thrilled! Going through this new experience taught me a few things that I think you might enjoy learning as well. Listen to the full episode here Hire a piano technicianLike you would ask a trusted auto mechanic to evaluate a used car before you buy it, it is a good idea to hire a trusted piano technician to inspect the piano before you make such a large purchase.They can 'check under the hood' and let you know about possible issues the piano might have. This information will help you make an informed choice.Make sure you have plenty of spaceMy baby grand piano is 5'4" long and about 5' wide. Five foot by five foot square…
PPP 309: Author, Cher Kretz, shares her GPS Life System
Returning to the show from her previous appearance in PPP209, author, and counselor, Cher Kretz is back to share more helpful insight for parents. On today's show you will hear about her latest book release, "30 Days to Higher Hopes" and her GPS Life System. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Connect with Cher:Website: TheFocusedMindset.comPodcast: Parenting with the Focused MindsetNew Book: 30 Days to Higher HopesFrom the PPP Archives:PPP110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano Kid Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank…
PPP 308: Why do Olympic athletes need a coach?
Why would a world-class athlete, someone who is at the top of their physical abilities, need a coach? Find out on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Olympics.com coaches webpageFinding a good coach (a great document for piano parents)Qualities of a Great Sports Coach (a great document for piano teachers)From the PPP Archives:PPP110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano KidPPP 194: You're Awesome, But... Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note…
PPP 307: Break the Cycle (How to Reprogram Negative Communication with Your Piano Kid)
Have you ever found yourself having a negative reaction to someone else's negative reaction?Do your defenses or emotions kick into the situation, making the conversation even more tense?On today's show, we will talk about how to disrupt your brain's reactionary routine and reprogram the cycle of communication. Listen to the full episode here How about this scenerio? You know your piano kid needs to practice their assignment before their piano lesson next week.Below are two possible habit routines that you and your child could be creating.On the left, is a negative spiral that leaves everyone frustrated and minimal practicing done.On the right, is a possible alternative where you disrupt the defensiveness, both your child's and your own, and create a much better environment in your home. CUE You are the…
PPP 306: Musical Mystery (coming soon!)
New Musical Mystery Coming Soon! I am excited to share the next Musical Mystery with you! The story is still in the works. Please check back soon.In the meantime, follow this link to download the Podbean Podcast Player and listen to previous Piano Parent Podcast episodes. Be sure to hit the subscribe/follow button so you will be notified each time a new episode drops.Thanks for your patience! Listen to previous mysteries You can find the whole catalog of previous Musical Mysteries here.Piano Parent Podcast Musical Mysteries
PPP 305: Stephen Hughes – Jazz Piano, Part 2
Stephen Hughes, shares practical tips and strategies for that moment when your high school band director recruits you to play keyboard in the school jazz band.In part 2, Stephen will talk about core triads and 7ths to focus on, how to decipher chord symbols, and how to practice chord voicings. Listen to the full episode here In part 1 we talked about being proactive, focusing on chords, and listening to Jazz Classics.You can listen to Part 1 at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/304. Connect with Stephen Hughes Website: Online Piano StudiosHe put together a resource page for first-year jazz pianists. Thanks, Stephen! Click here to go to Stephen’s resource page.YouTube: Stephen Hughes’ Virtual Piano Studio Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If…
PPP 304: Stephen Hughes – Jazz Band, Part 1
Stephen Hughes, shares practical tips and strategies for that moment when your high school band director recruits you to play keyboard in the school jazz band.In part 1, we'll talk about being proactive, focusing on chords, and listening to Jazz Classics. Listen to the full episode here Be Proactive Ask for clarification about your role in the Jazz bandAsk your piano teacher for help with the chartsListen to various recordings of the music Focus on Chords Learn how to build chords (more on this in PPP 305 - coming soon)Create a vocabulary of "stock voicings"If you are given fully written notation, it's still a good idea to study the chords and edit out some of the notes Listen to Jazz Classics Listen to the rhythm and styleStart with theseCharlie ParkerCount…
PPP 303: WWYD – Attending the Lesson
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey.Just as your child can only learn independence through experience, this summer series will give you ideas about whether or not you should attend the piano lesson with your child. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping LessonsPPP 297: WWYD - Practice TimePPP 298: WWYD - Letter NamesPPP 299: WWYD - Practice SpacePPP 301: WWYD - No PracticePPP 302: WWYD - Schedule ConflictsPPP 303: WWYD - Attending the Lesson From the PPP Archives PPP 007: Should I Stay or Should I…
PPP 302: WWYD – Schedule Conflicts
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey.Just as you put appointments on your calendar to avoid double booking, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle scheduling conflicts with piano events. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping LessonsPPP 297: WWYD - Practice TimePPP 298: WWYD - Letter NamesPPP 299: WWYD - Practice SpacePPP 301: WWYD - No PracticePPP 302: WWYD - Schedule ConflictsPPP 303: WWYD - Attending the Lesson From the PPP Archives PPP 012: What About Makeup Lessons and Schedule Conflicts?PPP 102:…
PPP 301: WWYD – No Practice
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey.Just like you wouldn't skip a dentist appointment if your child forgot to brush their teeth, today's session will give you ideas about what to do if your piano kid goes the whole week between lessons with no practice. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping LessonsPPP 297: WWYD - Practice TimePPP 298: WWYD - Letter NamesPPP 299: WWYD - Practice SpacePPP 301: WWYD - No PracticePPP 302: WWYD - Schedule ConflictsPPP 303: WWYD - Attending the Lesson From the PPP…
PPP 300: Ten Episodes for New Listeners
Happy Anniversary!! The podcast is celebrating its sixth year and the milestone of 300 episodes!If you are a new listener, this episode is the perfect place to start. On today's show, I am highlighting ten of the different types of episodes you can expect to hear. Listen to the full episode here Every episode that ends in the number ZERO is a list of ten somethings.You can search the full archive and listen to any previous episode any time you want.Click this link to find other lists of ten.One of the most popular lists of ten somethings is PPP 110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano Kid. Most episodes that end with the number one are teacher interviews. A great one to start with in this category is PPP…
PPP 299: WWYD – Practice Space
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as your child puts their backpack by the door the night before school and you have your car keys in a bowl on a table in the entry hallway, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP…
PPP 298: WWYD – Letter Names
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as you have drilled your phone number and address in your kid’s memory and you have ICE contact information on your cell phone, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP 302: WWYD - Schedule Conflicts PPP…
PPP 297: WWYD – Practice Time
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as your child has a set bedtime and you set the bathroom clock ahead 5 minutes to avoid being late, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP 302: WWYD - Schedule Conflicts PPP 303: WWYD -…
PPP 296: WWYD – Stopping Lessons
This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as your child practices fire drills at school and you have a backup plan in case it rains on the day of their birthday party, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP 302: WWYD - Schedule…
PPP 295: Why Should Your Piano Kid Get SMART With Their Music?
My teaching method of getting SMART with your music is a nice middle ground between being fully committed to the written score and trying to create music from scratch. In this episode, you will hear how other piano kids are getting SMART with their music. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Texas Music Teachers Association Blackwell House Museum Get SMART Chart From the PPP Arvhives: PPP 036: Getting SMART with Your Music PPP 039: Getting SMART with Your Music...Again Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano…
PPP 294: The Journey to Musical Mastery
A few days ago my friend and fellow piano teacher, Kristin Yost, posted a document from her music school. She called the document "Journey to Musical Mastery" and in it, she offers parents a basic guideline of expectations for each phase of learning to make music.With Kristin's permission, I am sharing the document with you today. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Centre for Musical Minds, Frisco, TexasCMM's Journey to Musical Mastery documentFrom the PPP Archives:PPP036: Get SMART with Your MusicPPP039: Get SMART with Your Music ... Again Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the…
PPP 293: Don’t Confuse Basic with Easy
"...some of the most basic things are the most important to master, but most of us won't do it because it seems too simple." Vanessa Lau Listen to the full episode here Piano Basics Communicate with your teacher. Learn their expectations.Set up a practice routine - then follow it!Learn to read the staff and read lots of music.Use your hands and fingers efficientlyListen as you play Resources mentioned in today's show This episode was inspired by @vanessalau's Instagram post.James Clear's article, "Lessons on Success and Deliberate Practice from Mozart, Picasso, and Kobe Bryant".Men's Health YouTube video of Patrick Mahomes' workout with a medicine ball.Interview with 2022 Van Cliburn winner, Lim Yunchan. Key Signatures Unlocked COURSE I am excited to build a new online course to enable pianists to be able…
PPP 292: Three Ways to Use the Circle of Fifths
The Circle of Fifths is a valuable tool for musicians. If you aren't familiar with it; however, it can look very overwhelming.On today's show, I will share three basic ways you can use the Circle of Fifths. Listen to the full episode here Three Ways to Use the Circle of Fifths Primary TriadsLocate any letter on the circle. That is your tonic (I chord)The letter to the right is the dominant (V chord)The letter to the left is the subdominant (IV chord)Many tunes can be harmonized with only these three chords. Secondary TriadsLocate the letter under each primary triad.These are relative minor chords.Minor chords are a fun way to substitute harmonies for melody notes.These six chords are the most often used chords in most popular music.Outside of the three primary…
PPP 291: Commencement: Congratulations, Graduates!
I am loving the word commencement this year. The graduation ceremony may mark the end of a season - a finish line, but commencement marks the beginning of a new and exciting adventure. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show "Hold Fast Your Dreams" book by Carrie Boyko and Kimberly ColenBilly Joel gives the commencement address at his New York high schoolBilly Joel's commencement speech at Fairfield University Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note…
PPP 290: Ten Teacher Gift Ideas for Summer (or graduation)
With the end of another school year just around the corner, you may be thinking of a way to let your teacher know how much you appreciate the knowledge and relationship they share with your piano kid.On today's show, you will hear what kinds of gifts piano teachers enjoy receiving. Listen to the full episode here Since I am only one person with my own specific opinion, I decided to ask my piano teacher friends what kinds of gifts they enjoy receiving.Most of the items fell into two basic categories: personal gifts and gifts for the studio. Enjoy! Personal Items Hand CreamGift cards to restaurants, groceries, gas, AmazonJewelry or perfume (here is an atomizer one teacher shared)Handwritten cards and notesHome-grown flowers/homemade baked goods. Items for the Studio Post-it notesMusic-themed mugs, shirts,…
PPP 289: Mindset is More Important Than Strategy
Henry Ford said it best, "Whether you think you can or think you can't, either way, you're right."Learn why mindset is so much more important than strategy on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Mindset is More Important Than Strategy Preston Pugmire says in his wonderful TED Talk, "If information was all that is necessary, we'd all be millionaires with six-pack abs."He goes on to explain that mindset comes in three phases:It's possible... for someone elseDoes your piano kid feel like everyone else can play piano except them? If they don't believe they can do it, the strategy doesn't matter. Piano teachers can "make piano fun" and break challenging music down into manageable steps but the student must believe and DO.It's possible for me... but how?Some people think…
PPP 288: The Advantage of Listening
Listening is just as important as reading or touching the piano keys.Today's show gives you a hands-on (or should I say ears-on) experience of actively listening to music. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Today's music samples were taken from HookSounds.com."I hope" https://www.hooksounds.com/royalty-free-music/i-hope/2057180/"Drama Trailer" https://www.hooksounds.com/royalty-free-music/drama-trailer/2188939/"Dear Mama" https://www.hooksounds.com/royalty-free-music/dear-mama/2165682/"Born to Become" https://www.hooksounds.com/royalty-free-music/born-to-become/135345/ Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo help out the show:leave an…
PPP 287: Teacher Chat Summer Piano Lessons
Whew! You are about to cross the finish line of another school year and another year of piano lessons. Congratulations!What's next?Should your piano kid take a break from lessons all summer?Should you keep going, full steam ahead?Are there options somewhere in the middle between 'all or nothing'?In today's chat, you will hear several different perspectives on summer piano lessons.Click here to find other teacher chats. Listen to the full episode here. Melissa Slocum has been teaching for 28 years, the past 13 from her own private studio. Her passion is to provide individualized, quality piano lessons in a positive environment. She is the creator of Music Lesson Pathways, a course to help other music teachers LOVE teaching again by using Differentiated Instruction strategies to create musical pathways for their students.…
PPP 286: Musical Mystery Opus 3, No. 4 “One Hit Wonder”
In the style of Mike Rowe’s podcast “The Way I Heard It” and Paul Harvey’s radio show “The Rest of the Story”, this episode of the Piano Parent Podcast brings you the backstory of a musician or song or a moment in music history. I use these musical mysteries to tell you something you might not know about someone or something that is somewhat familiar; in this case, you will hear the story of a very famous "One Hit Wonder". Resources used to write this musical mystery Carnegie Hall William Burnet Tuthill Archives –William Burnet Tuthill Collection - surveys and data William Burnet Tuthill Collection - drawings Video “The Birth of Carnegie Hall” Video “Opening Night 1891” Video “Tchaikovsky, New York, and Carnegie Hall” Five Facts About Opening NightWebsites –Acoustic…
PPP 285: Three Students, Three Strategies
It's been a while since I gave you details about some of my students and the real-world struggles they face in their piano studies. If you would like to hear previous student case studies, you can find them here.If you followed Ray's story from those older case studies, you will be happy to know that he is doing very well. He is continuing to advance in piano and this year started playing in his school band program.Today, I will share three snapshots of students who have started lessons within the last year. Each student has her own unique strengths and weaknesses. While I am the same teacher for all of them, the way they receive and process information is vastly different. I am enjoying learning from all of them. Listen…
PPP 284: Piano Day 2022
March 29 is the 88th day of the year. Happy Piano Day!! I have a few ideas of how you can celebrate this special occasion with your piano kid. Find out on today's episode. Listen to the full episode here You might enjoy listening to these previous episodes dedicated to the PIANO! (By the way, I would LOVE to invite you to join me as a guest on the show. CLICK THIS LINK to apply today!) Additional resources to help you celebrate Piano Day: Piano Day website Piano Day playlist on Spotify Every day can be a holiday! Visit the NationalToday website to see what else we can celebrate today. Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below Ask a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.com Share…
PPP 283: Spring Fever
Sometimes in the spring, I start getting a feeling of overwhelm and wish I didn't have all the responsibilities that I have. Do you feel that way? Do you ever get Spring Fever? I wonder if your piano kid feels the same way. Let's talk about Spring Fever and how to overcome it on today's show... Listen to the full episode here Social Shareables Click an image to share directly to your Pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn’t branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below Ask a question…
PPP 282: Relative Pitch
You may have heard about perfect pitch and learned that if you don't have it there is a small likelihood that you will develop it at this stage in your life. Fortunately, you can develop your relative pitch at any time. The sooner you can help your piano kid hone their skill of listening and hearing relative pitch, the better. Learn how in this week's episode. Listen to the full episode here Resources Mentioned in this episode: PPP264: Level up your video game music with composer, Chrissy Ricker PPP275: Cameron Dennis talks about ear training Thanks for listening and, especially, thank you for sharing the podcast with your friends.
PPP281: Setting Up Your Space for Online Lessons with Stephen Hughes
Stephen Hughes, NCTM is a professional pianist, online piano teaching specialist, and music technology trainer. His vast musical training & experience ranges from classical, composition, church, jazz, to pop music. His unique approach to teaching is a hybrid blend of various pedagogies, with an emphasis on creativity & strategic practice. His online teaching studio, Virtual Piano Studio, is a growing community of students & music teachers of all ages & skill level, who take private instruction via Live Online Lessons. He teaches students in the U.S., China, UK, & Australia. Stephen was teaching online long before it became a necessity in 2020. Today, he shares how parents can help their piano kids set up their home practice space for optimal online piano lessons. Listen to the full episode here A picture…
PPP280: Ten Subtle Musical Milestones
Sometimes it's hard to notice the tiny improvements your piano kid is making in their piano studies. Playing harder music isn't the only sign that they are growing as a musician. On today's show, I will share ten subtle changes that are easy to miss but are definite signs they are making good progress on their musical journey. Listen to the full episode here Finger Independence So many things we do with our hands involve our whole hand: throwing a ball, using a fork and spoon, etc. Playing the piano requires the ability to use individual fingers or specific groups of fingers together. How is your piano kid doing with independent fingers? Playing Hands Together Not only is it a challenge to play with two hands at the same time,…
PPP279: An “Original” ELVIS Impersonator
Recently, my husband and I took his parents to a concert. Though I was glad to spend time with them, I was not looking forward to seeing another Elvis Presley impersonator. What I experienced at the concert was something completely unexpected so I thought I'd share it with you on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show While this is not a commercial for either of these performers, I am happy to share their websites: Moses Snow - Elvis Presley Tribute Artist Bennie Wheels - Johnny Cash Tribute Artist Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us…
PPP278: Training Elephants – Learned Helplessness vs Limiting Beliefs
I heard a new term the other day, "Learned Helplessness".According to Psychology Today, "Learned helplessness occurs when an individual continuously faces a negative, uncontrollable situation and stops trying to change their circumstances, even when they have the ability to do so. For example, a smoker may repeatedly try and fail to quit. He may grow frustrated and come to believe that nothing he does will help, and therefore he stops trying altogether. The perception that one cannot control the situation essentially elicits a passive response to the harm that is occurring." Listen to the full episode here I've heard about elephant trainers who trained baby elephants to stay in one place by tying a chain around their feet. No matter how much they struggled and pulled at the chain, they…
PPP277: Finger Numbers and Hand Positions, a teacher chat with Dawn Ivers and Shelly Davis
One of the trickiest things about learning to play the piano is mastering how to use your hands and fingers. We use our fingers independently and in all kinds of combinations. Coordinating that movement while simultaneously reading unfamiliar symbols and keeping a steady pulse is a lot! In today's teacher chat, Dawn Ivers and Shelly Davis discuss some of the obstacles piano students encounter when it comes to finger numbers and hand positions. We will share tips for piano parents to be on the lookout for potential problems and coping skills while offering suggestions for overcoming the tricky bits of piano playing. Click here to find other teacher chats. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Click here to enjoy Dawn Ivers' previous appearances on the…
PPP276: Musical Mystery Opus 3, No. 3 “Arriving and Reviving”
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 how one young musician convinced his older and wiser teacher to try something new by singing something old. Listen to the full episode here Every January 1 my husband's family gathers, not only to bring in the new year but to celebrate my father-in-law on his birthday. It's always a nice post-Christmas, pre-back-to-normal celebration. This year, among the many various topics of conversation, my daughter and nieces were talking about the recent passing of Betty White. They, like many others of their generation, were cheering for Betty to reach her 100th birthday on January 17. They were sincerely saddened that she died…
PPP275: Cameron Dennis talks about Ear Training
Cameron Dennis is an amazing fusion of music and technology. While continuing to pursue graduate degrees in performance and music theory he is combining his musical knowledge with his skills in technology to create wonderful online resources for music students of any skill level.On today's show, Cameron shares his new Ear Trainer. This resource is extremely valuable to help piano kids learn to identify and notate the sounds they hear. Listen to the full episode here Resources Mentioned in this Episode Listen to Cameron's first appearance on the podcast: PPP208Check out Cameron Dennis' online theory platform - Lion TheoryThe newest iteration of Lion Theory's Ear Trainer can be found here.Cameron would love to book a one-on-one call with you. Click here to schedule a time to visit. Social Shareables Click…
PPP274: Janna Williamson talks about our historic heritage of piano music
Janna Williamson, NCTM, is a pianist, educator, and collaborator. Janna enjoys high retention in her independent piano studio in the suburbs of Chicago as well as the rewards of students who have gone on to enjoy a lifetime of music.Janna joins us on the show today to discuss our rich heritage of piano music. Listen to the full episode here Connect with Janna Williamson Janna's website: JannaWilliamson.comJanna's YouTube ChannelAs a special gift for our piano parent listeners, Janna has compiled a list of Piano Pieces Every Piano Student Should Know. (Click here to see the list. Use the code: pianoparent.)Piano teachers, there is a list for you as well! Click here. Social Shareables Click an image to share directly to your Pinterest account. Download an image to share in your…
PPP273: Rami Bar-Niv discusses The Art of Piano Fingering
RAMI BAR-NIV (RAMee Barneev) is one of Israel's most acclaimed and sought-after pianists. He travels extensively and has become an international citizen, concertizing all over the world. Rami has performed on every continent with the exception of Antarctica (I suppose we'll excuse him from that one).In addition to concertizing and lecturing, Rami also composes and has written two books. On today's show, Rami will share insights from his first book, The Art of Piano Fingering. Listen to the full episode here Connect with ... Rami Bar-Niv websiteThe Art of Piano Fingering bookBlood, Sweat, and Tours: Notes from the Diary of a Concert Pianist bookFollow Rami's YouTube Channel here Resources Mentioned in this Episode Rami generously shared two articles he has written for students and performers:Performance Anxiety Notes PDFReading Music as…
PPP272: My List of 21 in 2021
Whether you are great at setting goals or stay up well past midnight on January 1 making New Year's Resolutions, it's a good idea to make plans and have things to aim for. Last January I made a list of 21 things I'd like to accomplish in the year 2021. Listen to hear which ones I finished, which ones I will move to my 22 for 2022 list, and which ones I decided weren't that important afterall. Listen to the full episode here A few years ago I was listening to Gretchen Rubin's "Happier" podcast. It was the close of 2018 and she and her sister, Elizabeth were reviewing their list of 18 things for 2018. I enjoyed hearing their lists - even the things they didn't quite accomplish. This…
PPP271: Anna Fagan takes travel teaching to a whole new level
Piano teacher, Anna Fagan is a native Floridian who has been sharing music for over 50 years. She has a BM in Piano Performance from the University of Central Florida, and currently has an online studio with about 35 wonderful pianists! She has been the organist and pianist at the Church of the Lakes in Orlando for 30 years and recently served as President of the Florida State Music Teachers Association. Most recently, she and her husband downsized from a 2700-square-foot house to a 300-square-foot Class A motorhome, so she can travel and teach from…anywhere! Listen to the full episode here Travel teaching like no other! Anna's husband transformed a bunk bed sleeping area into a state of the art piano teaching studio. Before – this space began as a…
PPP270: Ten Wintery Pieces
Every tenth episode of the podcast, I offer you a list of ten somethings. On today's show, I present to you a list of Ten Wintery Pieces. Maybe your piano kid doesn't enjoy playing holiday music. Maybe your piano kid has been playing Christmas since October and your whole house is ready to hear something different. This list of ten pieces and songs has something for everyone at every skill level. Listen to the full episode here 1. "I Hate to Wear a Coat" by Wendy Stevens late elementary 2. "Winter Winds" - Chriss Ricker early intermediate Chrissy joined me on the show in episode PPP264. 3. "Icy Winds" by Christopher Oill - elementary Chris was my podcast guest in episode PPP265. 4. Snowfall - Dawn Ivers a collection of…
PPP269: Music Maker – Rhythm
Music Maker series Trying to decipher all the unusual symbols and find their matching sound on the piano is a complex endeavor, especially if you are 5-6 years old and simultaneously learning the symbols of the alphabet and trying to read books. Because of the vast amount of information, mistakes are common, which leads to missed notes, terrible sounds, and frustrated piano kids. What if we reverse engineer the process? What if children are guided through a process of writing the notes themselves so they can begin to notice the direction and distance from one note to the next? What if, instead of trying to be instant music interpreters they are able to become music MAKERS? That is the goal of today’s show and the free download you can snag…
PPP268: Christopher Oill shares the value of sight reading
A textbook definition of sight-reading would be the ability to read a piece of sheet music on the spot and to be able to play it as you're reading it. Another aspect of sight-reading is the ability to use your eyes to track the music on the page while your hands find the notes without having to look at them. On today's show, Christopher Oill talks about sight-reading - it's value and how to improve this skill. Listen to the full episode here What is a good definition of sight-reading? A textbook definition would be the ability to read a piece of sheet music on the spot and to be able to play it as you're reading it. Another aspect of sight-reading is the ability to use your eyes to…
PPP267: Thankful for Piano Parents (and a confession)
In today's special Thanksgiving episode, piano teachers share stories of gratitude for the families in their studio. Listen to the full episode here A few weeks ago, in preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday, I invited several piano teacher friends to share a message of gratitude for their studio families. Here are their inspiring messages... Marti from Texas I’m Marti from Texas. I’m ever thankful for The Khurana Family who has hosted our Studio December Recital from 2007 until 2019 (until COVID). Their grand piano – and home/decorations – are GRAND! Many of my piano parents go the extra mile to encourage their kids in ALL musical endeavors – including the very time-consuming commitment to marching band in High School. I ALWAYS thank my parents for providing lessons and trusting me…
PPP266: Musical Mystery Opus 3, No. 2 “Down in History”
In the style of Mike Rowe’s podcast “The Way I Heard It” and Paul Harvey’s radio show “The Rest of the Story”, this episode of the Piano Parent Podcast brings you the backstory of a musician or song or a moment in music history. I use these musical mysteries to tell you something you might not know about someone or something that is somewhat familiar.In this case, I will tell you the story of a young author who never wrote the great American novel but still managed to go "Down in History". Here is his story: Listen to the full episode here First, a word from our sponsor... Robert grew up in Long Island, New York with his brother and two sisters. One of Robert's sisters was Margaret. Remember that name because it will be…
PPP265: You Know More Than You Think You Know with Christopher Oill
Christopher Oill is a concert pianist, composer, and teacher, who leads performance and pedagogy into the future, perfecting “what is” and experimenting with “what could be.” Through his teaching business, the Oill Piano Universe, he helps open up the minds of creative musicians around the world, and he gives them the tools to succeed in their own niche way. In addition to teaching, he also assists in production work for the Faber Piano Adventures and publishes pedagogical piano music through the FJH Music Company, inc. His piano compositions have been described as “unique” and “refreshing,” so they make a nice addition to any piano teacher’s sheet music library.Christopher holds an MM in Piano Performance Pedagogy from Arizona State University, and a BM in Piano Performance and Music Education from the…
PPP264: Level Up Your Video Game Music with composer Chrissy Ricker
Chrissy Ricker, NCTM, is a pianist, teacher, and composer from North Carolina. Chrissy holds a Master’s degree in piano performance and pedagogy and has been teaching piano for 23 years. Chrissy specializes in creating exciting original music and arrangements for pianists of all ages and skill levels. She has published over 30 collections of piano solo and duet music for students, and her piano music is featured regularly on the contest lists of teaching associations across the United States and Canada. A prolific arranger, Chrissy has also arranged hundreds of pop, classical, video game, and anime titles and is a Signature Artist for the digital music retailer Musicnotes. You can learn more about Chrissy at her website, chrissyricker.com. Listen to the full episode here "When I got to about middle school…
PPP263: Building Rapport Between Student and Teacher
I recently received this question from a listener: Hey Shelly, have you done an episode about how parents often mistake chattiness as being “off-topic” and “wasting time” when it’s actually mega-important bonding time for teacher/student relationships? Listen to the full episode here Thank you for this great topic suggestion, Christina! Do you have a suggestion for an episode or a question about piano lessons? I would love to hear from you @pianoparentpodcast. Resources: PPP007: Should I stay or should I go Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you!…
PPP262: Operation MGC (Make Grandma Cry….in a good way!) aka A fun practice project to close out 2021
Your secret mission, should you choose to accept it, is to Make Grandma Cry…in a good way by performing a meaningful song for them at the next family gathering. Find out how in today's episode. Listen to the full episode here Accept your mission by completing the form below. The FREE version of Operation MGC will be available through December 31. During that time, please download the top-secret dossier and help me improve the objectives.Let me know if your piano kid had any failed objectives. What was the problem? How can I help you complete your musical mission for your special person?Thanks! I really appreciate your help! Yes! I accept this missionYour Operation MGC dossier will be delivered to your email inbox in 5.....4.....3.....2...SubscribeBuilt with ConvertKit Social Sharables Click an…