How do you get rid of stage fright? Well, you may never be rid of it 100% — a small amount of stage fright is actually not a bad thing! Well into his 60s, the renowned Duke Ellington used to say he enjoys a happy jolt of stage fright every evening. That being said, Duke […]
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By Alison Chiang With online lessons now the norm, it is important to show parents that you are able to continue teaching their children over a virtual setting. That being said, students that are already rowdy during in-person lessons are likely a nightmare to teach online! Here are some tips to manage overactive kids in […]
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What is a piano recital dress code? It might seem like a tricky question at first with a dizzying array of considerations: “Are my clothes too casual or are they unfashionable?” “What is the piano recital dress code of the venue and what are the expectations of the audience?” By reading the following tips you […]
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There is no failure, only feedback. Giving and receiving constructive feedback is one of the most challenging aspects of teaching and learning. As a teacher, it is part of your job to guide your music students and help them improve in their musical practice. Within that guidance, you should be giving constructive feedback that helps […]
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By Alison Chiang 2020 has been a tough year for everyone around. The shift to online teaching is particularly challenging for musicians, and both teachers and students have had to adjust to new challenges as we navigate this new norm. While working from home does have its advantages (family time, no need for traveling, more […]
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“I refuse to be THAT old lady piano teacher.” You know who I’m talking about. Maybe you were her student a long time ago. As for me, I have been teaching piano since my sons were in diapers; I have uttered this statement from the very beginning. Sorry, Mrs. Sack. You were a fine teacher, […]
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Ever heard of first impressions? For music teachers meeting with a student for the first music lesson, it is particularly important to make a great first impression. If this is a trial lesson, even more so!! The job market for music teachers is tough, so once you’ve successfully scheduled the first music lesson, it is […]
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In general, learning music is very hands-on, but of course, technology can and should enhance the learning and teaching experience for teachers, students, and parents. With the right online music education tools, education has no limits! The tools that we’re going to mention are great for both teachers and students when it comes to assigning […]
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By Marilyn Floyd Lesson plans can save stress for you, the teacher, and your student. If you know what’s coming next, you can relax, be in the moment and do what you do best - teach! And, because children don’t perceive time the way adults do, a reliable weekly lesson plan can help a younger […]
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When you want to start taking music lessons, often the hardest part is trying to decide which teacher is right for you. As Thomas Edison said, “Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” And we’ve all heard the quote that “failing to plan is planning to fail.” So let’s talk about how […]
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