Few people would argue with the statement that “piano lessons are good for you”. A quick ChatGPT check confirms that Piano lessons are good for you because they: Strengthen the …
What makes piano lessons so challenging for students and parents?
Enthusiasm
Some parents assume that it is normal and to be expected for children not to like lessons because *they* grew up with the idea that learning is supposed to be …
General Practitioner vs. Specialist
Every pre-college piano teacher—whether they say it or not—has a specialty. Some of us are generalists, but most of us develop particular strengths and preferences over time and have a …
Shrinking the Gap Between Practice and Performance
The following article was found on Violinist.com “Why can’t I play as well in performance, as I do in the practice room?” Many people find themselves in that situation, and …
Diamonds are formed under pressure
. “Diamonds are formed under pressure.” And bread dough rises when you let it rest. “The same boiling water that softens the potato will harden the egg.” We are all …
Changing Teachers
During the first couple weeks with a new transfer student, they will often exclaim when I say or demonstrate something, “Wow – I didn’t know that! My old teacher never …
Expectations
Recently, a disgruntled parent complained that my expectations were unclear. I scoffed. To me there is not much that’s more important in the teacher – student – parent triangle than …
Dealing with Performance Anxiety
Most of us who grew up learning an instrument and therefore performing at recitals were offered various pieces of advice on how to deal with performance anxiety. They ranged from, …
Covid-19 and other challenges
Yesterday, the Kansas State Department of Education clarified that “Governor Kelly didn’t cancel school for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year due COVID-19. She closed school buildings. Schools will …
On the subject of pianos
I own a piano studio. I teach people how to play classical piano. Acoustic pianos have several unique properties that allow them to produce music that is richly textured, has …