Creative Piano Teaching Podcast

Joe Harkins is a new piano teacher who came to piano teaching (like many of us do) from a mixed background of playing and performing. He got inspired to return to further pedagogy studies when he saw the gaps in his own knowledge, and joined the La Mont Piano Prepatory Program. For a brand new piano teacher, Joe is wise beyond his years. He shares some amazing nuggets and insights that he’s learned, including how to remember to look at the “big picture” when you’re teaching. Joe’s desire to learn and improve his teaching is truly inspirational. I know you’re going to get a lot out of today’s episode – whether you’re a brand new teacher yourself or not. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * How Joe got his start with playing jazz and other styles * What inspired Joe to start teaching piano * How he came to find the value of further pedagogy studies * The biggest worries for a brand new piano teacher * Why classical music gradually became more important for Joe * The benefits and drawbacks of working in a music school * What Joe was doing wrong in his own practicing * The most valuable lessons from his graduate studies * How to begin to incorporate technology in your teaching Links Mentioned * iReal Pro * Flashnote Derby * Tenuto * La Mont Piano Prepatory Program Today’s Sponsor “I am thrilled to be the brand ambassador for these incredible, dynamic, game-changing instruments developed by Casio – the Celviano Grand Hybrid pianos. If a person desires the qualities of a grand piano (or even more than one) but doesn’t own a manor house to place it in, the Celviano Grand Hybrid is your answer.” – Simon Tedeschi The Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid range is the perfect combination of innovation and tradition. Developed in collaboration with C. BECHSTEIN, Casio has introduced a game changer – offering an acoustic grand piano action, response and feel, with the benefits of a digital piano. Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid features at a glance: * Natural Grand Hammer Action Keyboard developed by C.Bechstein and Casio Made with full-length wooden concert grand piano keys, using the same materials and processes as the C. Bechstein concert grand pianos. * AiR Grand Sound Source (Three 9’ acoustic concert grands to choose from Berlin§  Berlin (C. Bechstein) *  Hamburg (Steinway) *  Vienna (Bosendorfer) * 32 other sounds (23 on GP300) * Grand Acoustic Sound System *   6 x speakers, 2 amps *    Arrayed vertically (up/down) for acoustic grand piano soundboard-like experience and sound-field * Record direct to a USB flash drive for sharing and editing * Dual headphone capability * Piano duet mode For more details about the Casi...

Lucinda was trained in a traditional classical system, but when she realised that she couldn’t even play Happy Birthday at a party (without sheet music) she felt a little cheated. Why couldn’t she do something so simple after all these years of study? She wished that someone who had these playing by ear skills would write down the formula, so that we could all learn to do it. As Lucinda began to teach students herself she gradually developed this step-by-step process and eventually put it all together in her book: Piano by Ear. Lucinda has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to teaching aural skills – and how to play Happy Birthday – in a way that’s digestible for students. She makes playing by ear accessible to even the most by-the-book teacher. I’m so excited to share this interview with you today, I know you’re going to take away a lot of great tips and ideas. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * What sparked Lucinda’s interest in playing by ear * Why we got out of the habit of teaching ear training * What most people want from piano lessons * The balance between reading, ear and improvising * How to encourage more singing in your studio * Why you should sing the chord numbers as you play * How Lucinda teaches Happy Birthday with chords * How Lucinda approaches modes Links Mentioned * Lucinda’s website * Piano by Ear * Piano Teachers’ Course UK * A five day course to inspire and refresh instrumental and vocal music teaching, learning and performing Today’s Sponsor “I am thrilled to be the brand ambassador for these incredible, dynamic, game-changing instruments developed by Casio – the Celviano Grand Hybrid pianos. If a person desires the qualities of a grand piano (or even more than one) but doesn’t own a manor house to place it in, the Celviano Grand Hybrid is your answer.” – Simon Tedeschi The Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid range is the perfect combination of innovation and tradition. Developed in collaboration with C. BECHSTEIN, Casio has introduced a game changer – offering an acoustic grand piano action, response and feel, with the benefits of a digital piano. Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid features at a glance: * Natural Grand Hammer Action Keyboard developed by C.Bechstein and Casio Made with full-length wooden concert grand piano keys, using the same materials and processes as the C. Bechstein concert grand pianos. * AiR Grand Sound Source (Three 9’ acoustic concert grands to choose from Berlin§  Berlin (C. Bechstein) *  Hamburg (Steinway) *  Vienna (Bosendorfer) * 32 other sounds (23 on GP300) * Grand Acoustic Sound System *   6 x speakers, 2 amps *    Arrayed vertically (up/down) for acoustic grand piano soundboard-like experience and sound-field * Record direct to a USB flash drive for sharing and editing

Depending on where you got your musical start, solfa might be an integral part of your musicianship – or it might be a foreign language. If you didn’t learn solfa growing up or never felt like you had a”good ear” it can be intimidating to launch into solfa exercises in your teaching. It’s tempting to just pick up a book of exam ear exercises and practice those before the big day. But you’ll be missing out on so much goodness, and your students will be too. Ear training with solfa can be fun, practical and above all truly musical.  Christopher Sutton has some fantastic tips to share with us today all about using solfa in your piano teaching. Many of these ideas were new to me – and are things I’m definitely going to be using going forward. Take a listen and see if you’re persuaded by the power of solfa too. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member?   In this episode, you’ll learn * Why Christopher is so passionate about aural * What solfa or solfege is * Why solfa is such a powerful musical tool * How it can be used in your teaching * The difference between movable and fixed solfa * How to get started with achievable solfa exercises * How solfa can help with chord theory Links Mentioned * Musicality podcast episode 9: About perfect pitch * Facebook video about aural tests in exams * Making Aural Fun Webinar Today’s Sponsor “I am thrilled to be the brand ambassador for these incredible, dynamic, game-changing instruments developed by Casio – the Celviano Grand Hybrid pianos. If a person desires the qualities of a grand piano (or even more than one) but doesn’t own a manor house to place it in, the Celviano Grand Hybrid is your answer.” – Simon Tedeschi The Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid range is the perfect combination of innovation and tradition. Developed in collaboration with C. BECHSTEIN, Casio has introduced a game changer – offering an acoustic grand piano action, response and feel, with the benefits of a digital piano. Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid features at a glance: * Natural Grand Hammer Action Keyboard developed by C.Bechstein and Casio Made with full-length wooden concert grand piano keys, using the same materials and processes as the C. Bechstein concert grand pianos. * AiR Grand Sound Source (Three 9’ acoustic concert grands to choose from Berlin§  Berlin (C. Bechstein) *  Hamburg (Steinway) *  Vienna (Bosendorfer) * 32 other sounds (23 on GP300) * Grand Acoustic Sound System *   6 x speakers, 2 amps *    Arrayed vertically (up/down) for acoustic grand piano soundboard-like experience and sound-field * Record direct to a USB flash drive for sharing and editing * Dual headphone capability * Piano duet mode For more details about the Casio Celviano click here. Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign...

  Ear training can be dull. But it definitely doesn’t have to be. Kirstin Jensen is here to tell us about some super fun and effective aural activities you can do with your students in just a few minutes of lesson time. These ideas will even get your youngest most wiggly students excited to work on ear training. When it comes to ear training, a little goes a long way. Kirstin has seen a marked difference in musicality between her students that have done ear training from the start – and those that haven’t. So what are you waiting for? Jump in and listen to Kirstin’s great aural tips, your students will thank you. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? Today’s Free Download In this episode, you’ll learn * Why ear training is even better in group lessons * How to build up your confidence with aural * Creative ideas for making ear training fun and interactive * Activities for rhythmic dictation (with cheering!) * How ear training improves students’ playing in general * Why Kristin includes compositions and improvisations in every recital Links Mentioned * The Best Aural Activities for Absolute Beginner Piano Students * Even Young Kids Can Create at the Piano * Auralbook app * Beginner ear training games * Ear training worksheets * How to teach kids to play by ear Today’s Sponsor “I am thrilled to be the brand ambassador for these incredible, dynamic, game-changing instruments developed by Casio – the Celviano Grand Hybrid pianos. If a person desires the qualities of a grand piano (or even more than one) but doesn’t own a manor house to place it in, the Celviano Grand Hybrid is your answer.” – Simon Tedeschi The Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid range is the perfect combination of innovation and tradition. Developed in collaboration with C. BECHSTEIN, Casio has introduced a game changer – offering an acoustic grand piano action, response and feel, with the benefits of a digital piano. Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid features at a glance: * Natural Grand Hammer Action Keyboard developed by C.Bechstein and Casio Made with full-length wooden concert grand piano keys, using the same materials and processes as the C. Bechstein concert grand pianos. * AiR Grand Sound Source (Three 9’ acoustic concert grands to choose from Berlin§  Berlin (C. Bechstein) *  Hamburg (Steinway) *  Vienna (Bosendorfer) * 32 other sounds (23 on GP300) * Grand Acoustic Sound System *   6 x speakers, 2 amps *    Arrayed vertically (up/down) for acoustic grand piano soundboard-like experience and sound-field * Record direct to a USB flash drive for sharing and editing * Dual headphone capability

When it comes to teaching pop, sometimes the best approach is to learn it aurally. Working out a pop song by ear gives you more opportunities to teach your students theory, and creates a much more musical experience. In this episode I take you through step-by-step how you can teach your students a pop song by ear. I take the song Mockingbird by Eminem and break it apart just like I would with a student in a lesson. You don’t need to write off rap or hip hop songs like this – sometimes they can make great teaching material. Take a listen if you’re curious about this different approach to teaching pop. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? Today’s Free Download If you want to try teaching pop by ear but you’re finding it hard getting started, you need this cheat sheet. In this episode, you’ll learn * How to get a student started with a new pop song * The most important questions to ask when teaching pop * How to use pop as a valuable aural exercise * Why you need to get your students singing when playing by ear * What this can teach your students about key signatures * How to combine the chords, bass line and melody to create an arrangement * Why I don’t teach pop songs unless a student brings it to me Repertoire Rap Video Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Do you ever teach music completely by ear? Have you been nervous to try this kind of teaching? What’s holding you back from teaching your students to play by ear? When it comes to teaching pop, sometimes the best approach is to learn it aurally. Working out a pop song by ear gives you more opportunities to teach your students theory, and creates a much more musical experience. In this episode I take you through step-by-step how you can teach your students a pop song by ear. I take the song Mockingbird by Eminem and break it apart just like I would with a student in a lesson. You don’t need to write off rap or hip hop songs like this – sometimes they can make great teaching material. Take a listen if you’re curious about this different approach to teaching pop. Transcript

For piano students, working in keyboard ensembles is fantastic for so many reasons. They teach kids about rhythm, phrasing, working as a team, and so much more. When you’re playing with another musician – you have to actually listen. This is so valuable for young pianists and such a rare opportunity. All young pianists should be given this chance to round out their playing and musicality. Susan Ogilvy has worked for many years with keyboard labs and keyboard ensembles and she has some amazing ideas to share with us today. Learn how you can get started using ensembles in your studio more easily (and cheaply!) than you might think. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * How Susan got into group teaching and keyboard labs * What a keyboard ensemble looks and sounds like * How playing in a band helps pianists’ rhythm * How keyboard ensembles teach so many skills * Why you don’t always need to be a weighted key purist * What students can learn about the other instruments through keyboard ensembles * How imitating a wind instrument helps with phrasing Links Mentioned * SO Space * Ogilvy Music * Yamaha Clavinova * Hal Leonard ensemble books Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Have you taught keyboard ensembles? Are you looking to expand into more group work? Or put on a ensemble concert? For piano students, working in keyboard ensembles is fantastic for so many reasons. They teach kids about rhythm, phrasing, working as a team, and so much more. When you’re playing with another musician – you have to actually listen. This is so valuable for young pianists and such a rare opportunity. All young pianists should be given this chance to...

Debra Perez has helped teachers around the world to make the switch to a group teaching studio. She knows all the ins and outs of parent education, marketing and the best set up for your group piano lessons. Listen to this episode and you’ll learn why changing to a group teaching studio is getting such a buzz (for students and parents) and how you can change your studio over. Debra will also help you assess whether group teaching really is a good fit for you – it’s not for everyone! Tune in to hear from one of the masters of group teaching, and learn everything you need to know about this important transition. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * How Debra started her group teaching studio * Why she started mentoring and teaching other teachers * The mindset piece of the group teaching puzzle * How to learn not to micro-manage in your teaching * What are the biggest positives of group teaching for students and teachers * What parents really want from music lessons * How to make the switch to group lessons from private * How to educate your piano parents before changing over Links Mentioned * Way Cool Keyboarding Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Have you made the switch to group teaching? What was the biggest change for you? Is there anything you wish you had done differently? Debra Perez has helped teachers around the world to make the switch to a group teaching studio. She knows all the ins and outs of parent education, marketing and the best set up for your group piano lessons. Listen to this episode and you’ll learn why changing to a group teaching studio is getting such a buzz (for students and parents) and how you can change your studio over. Debra will also help you assess whether group teaching really is a good fit for you – it’s not for everyone! Tune in to hear from one of the masters of group teaching, and learn everything you need to know about this important transition. Transcript

Forrest Kinney and I have a lot in common. We both believe that modern classical music eduction is missing a step when it comes to teaching the creative arts. Somewhere along the way improvising, composing and arranging got cut out of the equation – and we’re fighting to get them back into piano studios around the world. Piano teachers can feel dizzy with all the different creative projects they could or should be doing. The way Forrest frames these as the four creative arts gives a lot of clarity to creative piano teaching. I’m delighted he was able to come on the podcast to explain his philosophy and approach to teaching these creative arts. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? Today’s Free Download Download the Four Arts of Music graphic and see how these creative arts are interrelated and connected. In this episode, you’ll learn * Why Forrest is so passionate about this way of teaching * Who’s fault it is that performers stopped improvising * How performing classical music can be creative…but usually isn’t * What the four creative arts are and which comes first * How these creative arts line up with how we use language * What to do with students who are afraid to improvise * Why it’s important to be musically literate too * How improvising duets create a “fail proof” environment Links Mentioned * Improvising and arranging books by Forrest Kinney Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Are you teaching all four creative arts? Were you encouraged or bolstered by Forrest’s way of looking at creative teaching? Share your inspirations from today’s show in the comments. Forrest Kinney and I have a lot in common. We both believe that modern classical music eduction is missing a step when it comes to teaching the creative arts. Somewhere along the way improvising, composing and arranging got cut out of the equation – and we’re fighting to get them back into piano studios around the world.

When Mayron Cole started teaching piano in groups, no one was doing it. She made up her own activities, learnt as she went, and gradually created her own curriculum which is now used in piano studios all over the world. Mayron is here today to share her wisdom from 38 years of group teaching. From transfer students, to headphones, to studio policies – she has heaps of tips for you. Learn about the ins and outs of teaching in groups and make your studio a success by listening to this episode. If you’re considering the switch to group teaching (or already teach in groups) then this is essential listening. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * How Mayron got started with group piano teaching * Why she thinks group lessons are far superior to individual * How and why Mayron first set up her strict studio policies * Why transfer students are much harder than brand new students * How Mayron handles transfer students and finds their level * Why a digital piano can be better than an acoustic * The place of headphones in group lessons * How to organise groups by age and ability * The format and structure of Mayron’s group lessons Links Mentioned * Mayron Cole Group Method website * How to Change to Monthly Billing for Piano Lessons Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Are you considering teaching in groups? What top tip will you be implementing from Mayron’s advice? Is there anything you disagree with her about? When Mayron Cole started teaching piano in groups, no one was doing it. She made up her own activities, learnt as she went, and gradually created her own curriculum which is now used in piano studios all over the world. Mayron is here today to share her wisdom from 38 years of group teaching. From transfer students, to headphones, to studio policies – she has heaps of tips for you.

When it comes to teaching modes, teachers can come across all sorts of stumbling blocks. For one thing, they may not have the in-depth knowledge they feel they need – or they may just be unsure of where modes fit in the piano curriculum. I get questions about modes all the time from teachers. How to identify them, when to teach them, and what their place is in our studios. So in this episode I thought I’d tackle teaching modes and how to have fun with them in your teaching. I’m talking about the characteristics of each mode and breaking down the mystique that surrounds modal pieces. Don’t forget to download the worksheet so you can follow along for maximum effect. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? Today’s Free Download Get the fantastic modes cheatsheet to take away the confusion for good and get to grips with modes. In this episode, you’ll learn * What exactly is a mode * The difference between a scale and a mode * Why I don’t reference modes based on white piano keys * Why we need to teach modes * The characteristics of each mode * How you can use the modes to improvise * How to tell if a piece is in a mode * What you can do to get better at identifying modes Links Mentioned * AMEB Piano for Leisure * Daniel McFarlane – Supersonics Piano * Robert Vandall – Modal Expressions * Robert Vandall – Modes and Moods * Anne Crosby Gaudet – Emoji Modes * Marilyn Lowe – Music Moves for Piano * Forrest Kinney – Pattern Play * Willard A. Palmer – Fun with Modes * Lisa Donovan Lukas – Duets a la Mode * Margaret Brandman – Contemporary Modal Pieces * Debra Wanless – In the Mood for Modes Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show,

Did you become a piano teacher because you LOVE music, but now struggle to handle the business side of things? Or perhaps you’re in a little bit of a teaching rut and need to find a way out? Well then today’s episode is for you. This is the second part of our 100th episode celebration and I’m sharing my favourite conversations so far about business and teaching transformations. These are the best snippets from the podcast so far that will help you level up your business game, and those minute details about your teaching that could change everything. Find out about multi-teacher studios, automation, teen retention and more in this awesome roundup episode. If you’ve enjoyed these extra special episodes with our favourite conversations then let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear what you think. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * How to have a life and run a business * Tips for travelling teachers * How to nurture new leads for potential students * When the right time is to hire another teacher * How to automate the new student enquiry process * Why you should try teaching non-legato first * The value and importance of rote teaching * How to set goals for students with special needs * How to keep teens in lessons through the rough patches Links Mentioned * Episode 7 with Carly McDonald * Episode 67 with Abraham Levitan * Episode 93 with Chantelle Duffield * Episode with 71 Julie Knerr and Katherine Fisher * Episode 79 with Amy Greer * Episode 57 with Susan Bessette * Episode 32 with Anita Collins Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to 

It’s the 100th episode of the podcast! To celebrate we’ve put together a two part special with the best clips from the past 99 conversations about creativity, business and teaching transformations. If you follow the blog and podcast, you’ll know that creativity in piano lessons is one of my great passions. That’s why I’ve dedicated this first part of our 100th episode special entirely to ideas about improvisation, composition and creative teaching. I’ve so enjoyed each and every conversation I’ve had on the podcast so far and I’m looking forward to many more. If you have a favourite episode (perhaps one I left out) make sure to leave it in the comments. Enjoy this extra special episode and stay tuned for part 2 all about the business of piano teaching. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * Why you should bring creativity into your studio * How to get started if you’re apprehensive about improv * How to bring a sense of curiosity into your teaching * What you can do with a pentatonic scale to inspire students * How to get students to explore music from the start * The difference between validation and feedback * Why the relationship come before anything else in teaching * What’s wrong with just saying everything was: “Great!” Links Mentioned * Episode 65 with Lyndel Kennedy * Episode 5 with Bradley Sowash and Leila Viss * Episode 35 with Lynette Barney * Episode 1 with Daniel McFarlane * Episode 26 with Nick Ambrosino * Unstructured Practice Giving Students Time to Doodle * Create First by Forrest Kinney Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to 

Pamela Wedgwood first started composing because her students wanted to learn pop…and yet they weren’t always ready to play the full pop music they wanted to. So she started experimenting to create music that would inspire them to practice. She now has all sorts of publications including the popular Jazzin’ About and Upgrade! series which have been loved by countless students and teachers across the globe. She’s also of course a fantastic teacher with a wealth of experience and in this episode she shares tips for everything from memorising to improving listening skills. You don’t want to miss this one – take a listen and get inspired. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * Why Pamela Wedgwood started composing for her students * How she goes about composing new music * How Pam gets students to listen when they’re playing * Pam’s composing method for a new piece * How to start a new composition from a title * What students can learn from composing music * The genesis of the Upgrade! series Links Mentioned * Jazzin’ About * Upgrade! * Olly’s Piano Sheets Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Have you used any Pamela Wedgwood books? Has any of Pam’s music inspired your students? What’s your favourite piece? Pamela Wedgwood first started composing because her students wanted to learn pop…and yet they weren’t always ready to play the full pop music they wanted to. So she started experimenting to create music that would inspire them to practice. She now has all sorts of publications including the popular Jazzin’ About and

One of the fantastic benefits that my Inner Circle members get access to is the opportunity to take part in a live mastermind call once a month. In these video calls we focus on hot topics for piano teachers, and members can ask questions of myself and our guest experts. These calls are so valuable and one of the many highlights of being part of my community for piano teachers. So I thought it would be fun to give you a sneak peak inside an Inner Circle mastermind in today’s show. In this snippet one of my members, Karen Lien (check out her member spotlight here), is asking about group teaching. Karen got some great advice here for marketing her studio and has gone on to fill several of her new group classes very successfully since this call. Take a listen to see what a mastermind is like – and get some great tips along the way. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member? In this episode, you’ll learn * What happens in our Inner Circle masterminds * The value teachers get out of these live calls * Marketing tips for starting a group class * How to introduce a referral program to get new students * How to reach out to homeschoolers * What else you can get out of the community Links Mentioned * Inner Circle community * Repertoire Raps Mastermind Video Recording Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Do you wish you could be on these live calls? What would you love help with that you could ask the community about? What questions did this discussion bring up for you? One of the fantastic benefits that my Inner Circle members get access to is the opportunity to take part in a live mastermind call once a month. In these video calls we focus on hot topics for piano teachers, and members can ask questions of myself and our guest experts.

Massimo Biolcati is the creator of my favourite app of all time, iReal Pro. This app is the best tool I’ve found for creating a band experience to practice pop and jazz music on the piano. Something that I believe very strongly should be included in more music teaching studios. When Massimo started the app it was something completely different. But through some time and a lot of coding magic it’s grown into the wonderful tool that I now use in my teaching. This app is like the best backing track ever…and so much more. Find out how it came about, what you can use it for, and some insider tips and tricks in today’s show. Transcript If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below. Inner Circle Members: You can access your PDF download now from the Resource Library. Not a member?   In this episode, you’ll learn * What iReal Pro is and why it was invented * How I use iReal Pro in my teaching * Where the name came from * How the app has evolved into a backing track treasure trove * What’s in store in the next version of iReal Pro * How the different styles in the app function * More sneak peaks at whats to come in the app * A special practice trick that you might not know about Links Mentioned * iReal Pro (iPad/iPhone) * iReal Pro (Android) * How to Plan and Run a Pop Piano Recital Get $100 off Annual Inner Circle Membership As a valued podcast listener, you’re eligible for a $100 discount on an annual Inner Circle Membership. This discount lasts for as long as you’re a member and whatever price you sign up for today is the price you’ll pay as long as you remain a member. Copy this coupon code to use when you see the “Coupon Code” box:  PIANOPODCAST. Thank you for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, and I’m grateful that you’ve chosen mine. Whether you’re at the gym, on the bike or in the car, I know that you and your students will get lots out of what you learn in the long run. Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons! If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it by using the social media buttons on the left of the page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes or on my Facebook page. Reviews are extremely helpful when it comes to show’s ranking and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally. Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live. Do you use iReal Pro? What’s your favourite feature? What unusual or interesting ways have you used this awesome app? Massimo Biolcati is the creator of my favourite app of all time, iReal Pro. This app is the best tool I’ve found for creating a band experience to practice pop and jazz music on the piano. Something that I believe very strongly should be included in more music teaching studios. When Massimo started the app it was something completely diff...