This article is for piano teachers looking for ways to introduce improvisation into their students’ lessons and make the experience fun and successful. This week, I was very fortunate to be able to attend a program on the “Art of Improvisation” conducted by Jeffrey Chappell—a true expert on the subject. As a piano teacher who
This article has quick tips for piano students of any level to assess their posture at the piano and establish a sitting position at the instrument that encourages good technique. Piano Posture When I think back on elements of good posture at the piano, I remember many important tips given to me by different instructors,
If you’ve ever peeked at a sheet of music and felt like you were deciphering ancient symbols, you’re not alone. As a team of music teachers who work with beginners every day, one of the easiest tools we teach right away is how to use the acronym FACE treble clef spaces to remember which notes
Crab‑Hand Piano Technique Tips: Why It Matters for Beginners As piano teachers who frequently guide beginners in private lessons, we always emphasize hand posture. When students develop proper hand shape—including using their thumbs and curved fingers—they often end up looking like crabs walking sideways. That’s not just cute—it’s correct technique. Our crab-hand piano technique tips
When new students start lessons, one of the first questions we get from parents is: “What book will my child use?” And it’s a great question! Choosing the right method book is essential—it gives students a clear path to follow while allowing room to explore and be creative. As private teachers who specialize in beginner
Piano Method Books By Age, When And Why To Use Them This is for the parent of a beginning student who’s just starting piano. Many students have no idea where to start when it comes to finding a book to help them learn how to play piano. Fortunately, there are many books written on the
As teachers working with beginner music students, we know how nerve‑wracking auditions can feel. That’s why we emphasize how to prepare for your audition step by step—helping learners feel confident, organized, and ready to shine on stage. Whether you’re playing piano, guitar, drum, or any other instrument, this guide is tailored to support your musical
Piano Lesson Flash Cards Your children come home from school and need help with vocabulary, spelling, or math homework. That’s a no brainer for most of us. But what do you do when your child needs to practice piano and you have no idea if what they’re doing is correct or not? Like all of
When beginner students glance at sheet music and feel overwhelmed—just seeing dots on a page—it’s a signal that their eyes haven’t connected yet with musical meaning. That’s where lessons at home become so valuable: they allow a patient, customized approach that builds reading skills step by step until notation becomes familiar territory. Five-Step Approach to
Sometimes the most important learning experiences can be missed when we move too fast. Teaching Rubato to “Speedy Piano students” can really help them as a musician in the future, and in general. Here are a few helpful tips to make this learning process easier for you and the student. Acknowledge They Play Fast Kids
