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3 Online / Virtual Piano Lesson device tips

11/18/2021

 
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1. The HEIGHT of the device matters a lot
It's important for the piano teacher to see the posture, hand position, and foot placement during the lesson. This is often best achieved by using height adjustable phone/device stands which can be ordered online.
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Why this is important
A thorough piano lesson will address hand movement, finger positions and the proper height and distance from the keys. If the camera is too close, too low, or too high, it will need to be adjusted so that the proper technique is taught and observed.

If a teacher is unable to observe basic piano lesson elements such as hand positions, foot movement, and posture, then the student may develop bad habits and a delay in technical proficiency due to practicing incorrectly.

​Keep things easy by maintaining the best height for the student. The teacher will guide you through the set-up process.
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2. A CHARGED device matters a lot
A fully charged device will help ensure that the lesson is not abruptly interrupted due to low battery. Consider using charging stations throughout the day of the lesson is necessary

Why this is important
The purpose of the lessons are education, expression, technique, mindfulness and calm. Sensitive students may be prone to frustration if they are suddenly cut off due to a phone dying in the middle of the lesson. The more tools we use to keep students feeling fulfilled without unpleasant surprises, the better they will feel.

3. Maintain a CONSISTENT set-up
Make a note on how to angle and support the device.
Try to set up before the lesson starts. The teacher will guide you and confirm that the set-up is good. 
​A solid set-up will ensure that the device is stable, at the perfect distance, charged, and ready to go.

Why this is important
Students appreciate getting straight to their lessons without being concerned with spending too much time on the device positioning and set-up. It is also comforting when the phone or other device is reliable, sturdy, and stable throughout the lesson.

Students are going through more than enough in various areas of their lives and can get a sense of relief, peace, calm, and security during their piano lessons. The littlest things may affect some students in great ways so let's make sure we do what we can to ensure smooth, reliable, and peaceful online/ virtual lessons.

Piano Lessons as a tool for overcoming anxiety

10/1/2021

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Playing the piano can be a powerful tool for overcoming fear. Whether you're afraid of failure, public speaking, or just trying something new, the piano can help you build confidence and resilience. Here are some ways that playing the piano can help you overcome your fears:
  1. Mastery: Learning to play the piano requires time, effort, and dedication. As you progress, you'll start to see improvements in your playing, and this sense of mastery can help boost your confidence and reduce your fears. By setting achievable goals and working towards them, you'll develop a sense of control and empowerment.
  2. Mindfulness: Playing the piano requires focus and concentration, which can help you stay present and in the moment. This mindfulness practice can help you overcome fears related to anxiety and worry, as you learn to focus on the task at hand and let go of distracting thoughts.
  3. Expression: Music is a powerful form of expression, and playing the piano can help you express your emotions and feelings in a healthy way. By channeling your fears and anxieties into your playing, you can release negative emotions and find a sense of catharsis.
  4. Performance: Performing in front of others can be a daunting task, but playing the piano can help you build confidence and overcome stage fright. By practicing performing in a safe and supportive environment, you can develop the skills and resilience needed to perform in front of larger audiences.
  5. Creativity: Playing the piano can be a creative outlet, allowing you to explore different styles and genres of music. This creativity can help you overcome fears related to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone.
  6. Connection: Playing the piano can be a social activity, allowing you to connect with other musicians and audiences. By building connections with others, you can find support and encouragement, which can help you overcome your fears.
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Piano lessons During a Pandemic

9/14/2021

 
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1. Remember that health comes first
This includes the health of your family, teachers, and community.
Follow the necessary guidelines to keep yourself and those around you as healthy as possible. Be patient in taking good care of yourself. Use music as a tool for self-care and emotional wellbeing.

2. Enhance your creativity by approaching pieces in new ways
Use this opportunity to revisit old pieces. You may add new interpretations, dynamics, phrasings and anything that makes you feel happy and expressive.

3. Explore new pieces with familiar sounds
Think of your favorite theme songs, or great classics that you adore. Put your energy into the sounds and feelings that you would like to connect with and express at your instrument.

4. Share your music with others
Use this opportunity to uplift others in your home by playing for them. You may also touch the hearts of those in the greater community by playing online.

5. Monitor how you feel and reach out for help
Depression, anxiety, and other conditions can affect you and your loved ones immensely. This is also a time in which you must be patient with yourself in order to avoid exhaustion, burn-out or over assertion. Balance your time and energy as you see fit and be sure to have as much professional and emotional support as possible.

4 Mental Health Benefits of Having a Good Piano Teacher

8/15/2021

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Having a good piano teacher can provide many mental health benefits for students. Here are some ways in which a good piano teacher can support mental well-being:
  1. Accountability and motivation: A good piano teacher can provide a sense of accountability and motivation for students. Knowing that someone else is invested in their progress can help students stay committed to their practice, even when they may not feel motivated.
  2. Personalized support: A good piano teacher can provide personalized support based on the individual needs and goals of each student. This can help students feel more confident and capable, which can in turn boost their overall mood and well-being.
  3. Positive feedback and encouragement: A good piano teacher can provide positive feedback and encouragement, which can help students build self-esteem and confidence. This can be particularly important for those who struggle with self-doubt or perfectionism.
  4. Coping skills: Learning to play the piano can also provide coping skills for dealing with stress and anxiety. Through practice and performance, students can learn to manage their emotions and channel them into their music.
Overall, having a good piano teacher can provide a supportive and positive environment for students to develop their skills and well-being.
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5 wAYS that Learning The Piano Together can enhance Your Marriage

6/19/2021

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Playing the piano together can bring couples closer and create a stronger bond. Here are some ways that learning to play the piano can enhance your marriage:
  1. Shared Interest: Learning to play the piano can give you and your partner a shared interest to pursue. This common goal can help to bring you closer together and give you a new activity to enjoy as a couple.
  2. Communication: Playing music together requires a high level of communication between partners. As you learn to play together, you'll need to listen to each other and work together to create beautiful music. This can translate into better communication in your relationship outside of music as well.
  3. Patience: Learning to play the piano requires patience and persistence. As you work through challenges and overcome obstacles together, you'll develop a deeper sense of patience and understanding with each other.
  4. Bonding: Playing music together can create a unique bond between partners. It allows you to share a creative experience and work towards a common goal. This bond can translate into a stronger emotional connection outside of music.
  5. Stress Relief: Playing music is a great way to relieve stress and unwind. By playing together, you can create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere that can help to ease tensions and promote feelings of happiness and contentment.
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5 benefits of Jazz Piano Lessons

6/9/2021

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1. Mastering Piano Technique
Learning jazz piano can bring several benefits for pianists who want to improve their skills. Jazz piano requires a high level of technical proficiency, particularly when it comes to playing complex chord progressions and fast runs. It can help you improve your finger dexterity and strengthen your muscles, which will make it easier for you to play more complex pieces in any genre.
2. Complex Harmonies and Musicality
Jazz piano is known for its complex harmonies, rhythms, and melodies, which can help you develop your musicality and improve your ability to play with feeling and expression. Jazz pianists often experiment with different voicings and chord substitutions, which can help you learn to think outside the box and play more creatively.
3. Self-Expression Through Improvisation
One of the hallmarks of jazz piano is improvisation. Jazz pianists are expected to be able to improvise over any chord progression, which requires a deep understanding of music theory and the ability to think on your feet. By learning jazz piano, you'll improve your ability to improvise and become more comfortable playing in a variety of musical contexts.
4. Exploring Jazz Sub-Genres and New Musical Styles
Learning jazz piano will expose you to a wide variety of musical styles, from traditional jazz standards to more modern fusion and contemporary styles. This will help you expand your musical horizons and give you a deeper appreciation for the rich history of jazz music.
5. Social Connections and Collaboration Opportunities
Jazz music is a social art form, and learning jazz piano can help you connect with other musicians and performers in your local music scene. This can lead to new opportunities for gigs, collaborations, and other musical projects, which can help you grow as a musician.
Overall, learning jazz piano can be a rewarding and enriching experience for any pianist looking to improve their skills and broaden their musical horizons.
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5 Ways That April Showers Bring Piano Inspiration

4/1/2021

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April showers bring May flowers, as the saying goes. But did you know that April showers can also inspire beautiful music on the piano? The sound of raindrops hitting the ground, the pitter-patter of drops on rooftops, and the calming rhythm of a gentle downpour can all serve as inspiration for piano compositions. Here are some ways that April showers can relate to the piano:
  1. Mood Inspiration: The sound of rain can evoke different moods, from peaceful and calming to melancholic and contemplative. Many piano pieces have been inspired by the mood of rain, such as Chopin's Prelude in D-flat Major (also known as the "Raindrop" Prelude), which captures the sound and mood of a gentle rainstorm.
  2. Rhythmic Inspiration: The rhythm of rain can be complex and varied, with different patterns and intensities. Composers have used the rhythm of rain as inspiration for their piano pieces, such as Debussy's "La Cathédrale Engloutie" ("The Sunken Cathedral"), which uses a steady, rhythmic motif to evoke the sound of waves crashing against a submerged cathedral.
  3. Technical Inspiration: The piano can be used to imitate the sound of raindrops through various techniques, such as staccato playing and using the pedal to create a sustained sound. Pianists can also experiment with different articulations and dynamics to create the effect of a gentle or heavy rainstorm.
  4. Improvisational Inspiration: Jazz pianists have been known to use the sound of rain as inspiration for improvisation. The improvisational nature of jazz allows pianists to capture the mood and rhythm of rain in real-time, creating a unique and spontaneous musical experience.
  5. Collaborative Inspiration: April showers can also inspire collaborative piano compositions. Pianists can work with other musicians, such as vocalists or instrumentalists, to create pieces that incorporate the sound of rain in a creative and innovative way.
April showers can serve as a rich source of inspiration for piano compositions. Whether you're a classical pianist, jazz musician, or a composer, the sound, rhythm, and mood of rain can inspire beautiful music on the piano. So the next time it rains, take a moment to listen and let the inspiration flow.
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6 ways that learning to play the piano can promote wellness:

3/3/2021

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  1. Stress Reduction: Playing the piano can be a great way to relieve stress and tension. The act of playing music requires focus and concentration, which can take your mind off of worries and help you relax. In addition, playing music can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals.
  2. Improved Brain Function: Studies have shown that playing the piano can have a positive impact on brain function. Learning to read music, memorizing songs, and coordinating your hands can all help improve cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.
  3. Increased Finger Dexterity: Playing the piano requires a high level of finger dexterity and strength. Regular practice can help improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which can be beneficial for people with arthritis or other conditions that affect mobility.
  4. Enhanced Emotional Well-Being: Playing the piano can be a form of self-expression and can help improve emotional well-being. Music has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression and can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
  5. Social Connections: Playing the piano can also provide opportunities for social connections. Whether it's playing with friends or joining a music group, playing music with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  6. Improved Posture: Sitting at the piano and playing for long periods of time can help improve posture and spinal alignment. Proper posture can also reduce the risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
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4 ways that playing the piano cultivates love

2/4/2021

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Playing the piano can be a transformative experience, not just for your musical skills but also for your emotional well-being. One of the most powerful emotions that can be cultivated through playing the piano is love. Here are some ways that playing the piano can cultivate love:
  1. Self-love: Practicing the piano can be a form of self-care, allowing you to take time for yourself and cultivate a sense of self-love. By dedicating time and energy to playing the piano, you are investing in yourself and your own happiness.
  2. Love of music: Playing the piano can help you develop a deeper appreciation and love for music. As you explore different genres and styles of music, you may discover new artists or composers that speak to your heart, allowing you to connect with the emotions and feelings expressed through the music.
  3. Love for others: Music has the power to bring people together, and playing the piano can be a way to connect with others and cultivate feelings of love and connection. By sharing your music with others, you can create a sense of community and foster deeper relationships with those around you.
  4. Love of learning: Learning to play the piano can be a challenging but rewarding experience, allowing you to cultivate a love of learning and personal growth. By setting goals and working towards them, you can develop a sense of achievement and satisfaction, which can boost your self-esteem and cultivate feelings of love for yourself and your abilities.
  5. Love of beauty: Playing the piano can be a way to appreciate and create beauty in the world. By creating beautiful music, you are contributing to the world in a positive way and cultivating feelings of love and appreciation for the beauty around you.
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5 ways you can support your child in their piano lessons

2/1/2021

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As a parent, there are many ways you can support your child in their piano lessons. Here are some additional ways to help your child excel in their piano studies:
  1. Listen to their pieces: Take the time to actively listen to your child's pieces and ask them to play specific pieces that they are learning by name. This can show your child that you are interested in their progress and can help them build their confidence.
  2. Order necessary supplies: Ensure that your child has all the necessary supplies, such as sheet music, a metronome, and other accessories. Order these supplies on time so your child can use them in their lessons and practice.
  3. Create a practice space: Create a designated practice space in your home for your child to practice. Ensure that the space is quiet and free from distractions so your child can focus on their practice.
  4. Encourage consistent practice: Encourage your child to practice consistently, even on days when they may not feel like it. Consistent practice can help your child build their skills and make progress.
  5. Praise their efforts: Praise your child's efforts and progress, no matter how small. This can help build their confidence and encourage them to keep working towards their goals.
By actively supporting your child's piano studies, you can help them develop their skills and achieve their musical goals.
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Piano Tips for Mental Health

1/1/2021

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Mental Health Awareness in Music mindful piano teacher online
As we enter a new year, it's important to prioritize our mental health and well-being. Playing the piano can be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety, and there are many resources available to help support our mental health. In this post, we will explore some piano tips for mental health as well as some mental health resources that are available.
Piano Tips for Mental Health:
  1. Play for pleasure - Playing the piano can be a great way to relax and unwind. Take some time each day to play for pleasure, without any pressure to perform or achieve anything in particular.
  2. Focus on your breath - When playing the piano, focus on your breath and the physical sensations of playing. This can help to ground you in the present moment and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress.
  3. Choose calming pieces - When selecting pieces to play, choose calming and soothing pieces that help to create a peaceful atmosphere. This could be anything from classical music to modern piano pieces.
  4. Experiment with improvisation - Improvisation can be a great way to let go of any expectations or pressure and simply enjoy playing. Experiment with different chord progressions and melodies, and let your creativity flow.
Mental Health Resources:
  1. Therapy - Talking to a mental health professional can be a great way to work through any mental health challenges you may be facing. Many therapists offer virtual appointments, which can make it easier to access care from the comfort of your own home.
  2. Meditation and mindfulness - Practicing meditation and mindfulness can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. There are many resources available online, including apps like Headspace and Calm.
  3. Support groups - Joining a support group can be a great way to connect with others who may be going through similar challenges. Many mental health organizations offer virtual support groups, which can make it easier to access from home.
  4. Exercise - Exercise can be a great way to improve mental health and reduce stress. Whether it's a yoga class, a run outside, or simply taking a walk, make time for physical activity in your daily routine.
In conclusion, prioritizing our mental health and well-being is crucial, especially during these challenging times. Playing the piano can be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety, and there are many mental health resources available to support us. By incorporating piano tips for mental health and utilizing mental health resources, we can work towards a healthier and happier future.
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Benefits of Learning Piano Online

12/3/2020

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Are you considering learning how to play the piano but don't have the time or resources to attend traditional piano classes? Online piano lessons could be the solution you're looking for! With online piano lessons, you can learn to play the piano from the comfort of your own home, on your own schedule. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pianist, online piano lessons can offer numerous benefits such as flexible scheduling, personalized instruction, and access to a variety of learning resources.
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Virtual Piano Lessons

9/4/2020

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Although times are very different, learning and teaching virtually has been active for many years.
Students are able to learn using a wide array of resources and structured instruction provided by the teacher. We use music as a tool of comfort, growth, and expression for students of all ages.
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Mindful Student-Teacher Proximity During In-Person Piano lessons

6/30/2020

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For centuries the teaching of the piano has been in a state of evolution. Given that the COVID-19 Pandemic has changed the nature of education, this is an excellent reflective piece regarding student comfort, health, and technique at the piano.

1. Student Comfort Level
Students need ample personal space, and their comfort level can be significantly affected if a teacher is not mindful of their proximity. Even beloved teachers are often close enough for the student to smell what they had for lunch; This can be distracting or uncomfortable during a lesson. Ample space will bring greater joy and comfort to students who are eager to learn.

2. Health and Wellness
Close student-teacher proximity in piano lessons may result in a high transmission rate of contagious illnesses. For this reason, many piano teachers have strict cancellation policies that insist that students stay home if they are sick. Some piano teachers frequently get sick as students often directly cough and sneeze on the keys in their face or direction without remembering to cover their mouths. 

​3. Effective Teaching and Observation Skills
​Some teachers sit incredibly close to students throughout the lessons, often placing their students' hands on their own as they play to demonstrate a particular feeling or movement. The effectiveness of such a demonstration is up for debate. Some teachers guide students through visualization and imitation prompts without the use of physical touch. Styles and approaches vary by philosophies, regions, and how a teacher was trained in their own educational journey.

From a pedagogical standpoint, a proximity that is too close would limit the visibility of a student's posture, full-body technique, and movement. Some great teachers often teach from various locations in a single lesson; This may be standing up, switching sides, and listening and watching from multiple distances. Advanced teachers can identify what is going on with their eyes closed and need not be in extremely close proximity to the student throughout the duration of the lesson. 

Best practice means that teachers have their own seats and only share a bench temporarily or if necessary. It is of utmost importance for students to have comfort and independence on sitting on their bench unless they are very young and require seating support and supervision. The priority must always be the comfort and safety of each and every student.
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Princeton NJ : Piano Teacher

6/1/2020

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PIANO TEACHER PRINCETON, NJ: FINDING THE PERFECT INSTRUCTOR
If you are looking for a piano teacher in Princeton, NJ, you are in the right place. Princeton is renowned for its rich academic heritage and vibrant arts community. Home to the prestigious Princeton University and Westminster Choir College, the town exudes a cultured atmosphere perfect for nurturing musical talent.

5 Tips for hiring a Piano Teacher in Princeton, NJ 

1. When searching for a piano teacher in Princeton, prioritize instructors with strong academic backgrounds and connections to local cultural institutions.

2. It's a plus if they have connections to Westminster Choir College or Westminster Conservatory.

3. Look for teachers who emphasize a blend of classical training and contemporary techniques, ensuring a well-rounded musical education that aligns with Princeton's sophisticated environment.

4. Whether you're seeking classical piano lessons, private instruction, or specialized training from Princeton University piano teachers, finding the right instructor involves considering their academic credentials and community involvement.

5. An instructor's active participation in local cultural events and recitals can enrich their connection to the local music scene, providing students with a broader perspective and deeper musical engagement.

6.​ Sign up early! Many studios start filling up for fall sessions now, so securing your spot in advance is recommended.
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The Difference Between Playing, Practicing, and performing at the piano

2/4/2020

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Playing
Playing the piano is simply sitting down at the instrument and recreating what you were already able to do. It is often for relaxation, enjoyment, and exploration.


When playing the piano, the focus is on the joy of music rather than technical improvements. When playing, it is common for pianists to start from the beginning and to gloss over mistakes without making meaningful corrections due to the emphasis on being easy going, playing up to speed, and being expressive and free-spirited,

Playing is good for your wellbeing, your heart, and your mind. It is the essence of being a musician. Seasoned musicians who constantly only practice are encouraged to make room for play. Enjoy your skill level and your victories through play. Remember how important it is to appreciate what you can do at your current skill level through play. 

Practicing 
Practicing involves working on specific technical or musical challenge in a methodical and deliberate way a certain number of successful times before moving on to the next goal.


Practicing means breaking a piece of music down into small sections, starting from different parts in the music, playing with one hand at a time, playing way under tempo, studying the dynamics and finger numbers, learning the form, the theme, the keys, the chord progressions or other concepts and patterns in the music.

Practice means having the piece sound very taken apart instead of put together. Because of this reason, a lot of musicians are self-conscious when practicing because it may sound very elementary and deconstructed to anyone listening in. The deconstruction of the music is just a part of the process of learning in a way that is technically efficient, meaningful and can result in an impressive level of understanding, expression, and mastery in a short amount of time.

Performing 
Performing at the piano is the act of presenting a piece of music to an audience with the goal of entertaining, inspiring, or moving them emotionally.


Performing involves a heightened level of stage presence, expression, and interpretation. The focus is not only on technical precision but also on conveying the emotions and meaning behind the music. This type of playing requires a great deal of preparation and practice, including working on dynamics, phrasing, and musical interpretation.

​It is important to note that performance skills are developed through practice and include some very exciting and fun ways of being on stage, breath control, how to mess up, how to hold and interpret music, and more. 
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The Musical Selection Process

1/20/2020

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Music selection is a collaborative process.
 
1. Some pieces selected by the teacher are pedagogically geared to develop certain skill sets and can be the foundation upon which other pieces will be more easily learned.
 
2. Some pieces can be fun, flashy or dramatic sounding while being easy to moderately hard, and are taught using the various technical skills you've already developed.
 
3. Other pieces may appear to be quite hard - although it is certainly within your reach if it is assigned to you. Such pieces are broken down into small achievable steps and are incredibly rewarding when completed. 
 
Having a varied repertoire is such a great part of enjoying music that you can successfully and easily play while learning pieces that bring you to another level of expertise. The nuance of repertoire selection is a delicate and major part of developing students who feel love and accomplishment for their musical achievements while feeling inspired to learn even more.
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the benefits of Learning Through a Piano Teacher in One-on-oNE lESSONS

12/3/2019

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The role of a piano teacher is crucial in the development of a student's skills and abilities. While it's possible to learn the piano on your own through online tutorials and instructional materials, a good piano teacher offers many benefits that can't be replicated through self-teaching.

Personalized Guidance
One of the primary advantages of having a piano teacher is the personalized guidance they can provide. Every student is unique, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. A good piano teacher can assess a student's abilities and tailor their teaching approach to match the student's individual needs. They can provide feedback, identify areas for improvement, and offer solutions to overcome challenges.

Detailed Technical Progress
When a student is working independently, it can be easy to get off track, lose motivation, or develop bad habits. A piano teacher can help to keep a student on track, providing structure and consistency to their learning process. They can set goals, assign tasks, and monitor progress, providing a sense of accountability that can be difficult to replicate on one's own.

Encouragement and Support
A good piano teacher can also offer inspiration and motivation. Learning the piano can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating process, particularly for beginners. A teacher can provide encouragement, support, and positive reinforcement, helping students to stay motivated and engaged. They can also share their own passion for music, inspiring students to continue practicing and pushing themselves to new heights.

Valuable Expertise
Additionally, a piano teacher can offer valuable insight and knowledge about music theory, technique, and performance. They can help students to develop a strong foundation in these areas, which is essential for becoming a skilled pianist. A teacher can also provide guidance on selecting appropriate repertoire, developing a practice routine, and preparing for performances or auditions.

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Siblings learning to play the piano : a lifelong gift

11/19/2019

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1. Listening and Playing Together
Learning the piano with siblings can also foster a sense of collaboration and teamwork. They can work together to practice pieces, offer feedback, and support each other's progress. Playing duets or ensemble pieces together can improve their communication skills, musicality, and ability to listen and respond to others. It can also create a stronger bond between siblings and provide a shared hobby and interest.

2. 
Creative expression
Music can be a wonderful outlet for creative expression, allowing siblings to explore their individuality and develop their own unique voices. This can help build confidence and self-esteem, which can be beneficial for siblings as they navigate the challenges of growing up.


​3. Lifelong gift
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Learning to play an instrument is a lifelong gift that can bring great memories, joy and enrichment to a person's life for years to come. Unlike sports, which may be more time-limited, music can be a passion that siblings can continue to pursue and enjoy together for the rest of their lives.
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How Music Transcends Time : celebrating pianists age 70 and up

10/14/2019

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Music has the power to transcend age and time, and many professional composers and pianists have continued to create and perform well into their old age. Here are just a few examples of musicians who proved that age is no barrier to making great music:

  1. Elliot Carter: Carter was a composer who continued to compose music until his death at the age of 103 in 2012. He was known for his complex and challenging works, and won two Pulitzer Prizes for his compositions.
  2. Menahem Pressler: Pressler is a pianist who founded the Beaux Arts Trio in 1955, and continued to perform with the group until it disbanded in 2008. He is still active as a performer and teacher at the age of 98.
  3. Gunther Schuller: Schuller was a composer, conductor, and horn player who continued to create music until his death at the age of 89 in 2015. He was known for his work in both classical and jazz music, and won a Pulitzer Prize for his composition, "Of Reminiscences and Reflections."
  4. Pierre Boulez: Boulez was a composer and conductor who continued to create music and conduct orchestras until his death at the age of 90 in 2016. He was known for his avant-garde style and was a leading figure in the classical music world.
  5. André Previn: Previn was a prolific composer and conductor who continued to perform well into his 80s. He even won a Grammy Award for Best Classical Instrumental Solo at the age of 82.
  6. Chick Corea: Corea was a jazz pianist and composer who performed and recorded music up until his death at the age of 79 in 2021. He won 23 Grammy Awards throughout his career and is considered one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time.
  7. Philip Glass: Glass is a composer who is known for his minimalist style and has continued to create music well into his 80s. He has composed numerous operas, symphonies, and film scores, and shows no signs of slowing down.
  8. Martha Argerich: Argerich is a world-renowned pianist who has performed with some of the most prestigious orchestras and conductors throughout her career. She continues to perform at the age of 80, and her recordings are still highly sought after.
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Welcome Back!

9/7/2019

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Welcome Back! I hope everyone had a wonderful summer.
Here are some reminders for lessons for this new fall season.
 
1.Be sure your piano is tuned - this is very important for ear training and pitch accuracy.
2.Be mindful of changes in your students' growth as this affects positions at the piano.
3.Be engaged in the discussion of goals including repertoire, competitions, national music exams, or other possible performances and milestones.
4.Set a memorable practice schedule. Remember quality over quantity is FIRST. Once good practice habits are established, the length of practice may increase.
5.Revisit repertoire lists from the past in order to maintain memorization, technique and performance skills.
 
Your teacher will help you with all of these tips!
Have fun!
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How to Cope with Having to Un-learn and re-learn the piano

8/2/2019

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Learning to play the piano with proper technique is crucial to avoid the need for unlearning and re-learning in the first place. It can be a frustrating journey when you realize that you've been playing with bad technique or incorrect habits. This can happen when you first learn the piano without a teacher, or when you've been taught by someone who may not have been experienced enough to correct your technique. Fortunately, it's never too late to unlearn and re-learn the piano with the right guidance.

The process of unlearning and re-learning the piano requires patience, discipline, and a willingness to let go of old habits. It's important to maintain a qualified piano teacher who can identify the mistakes you've been making and guide you towards the correct technique. This may involve starting from scratch with basic exercises and scales to build proper finger and hand positioning, or breaking down complex pieces into smaller sections to focus on specific technical skills.
Unlearning and re-learning the piano can be a humbling experience, but it's also an opportunity to develop a stronger foundation for your playing. As you work with your teacher to correct your technique, you may find that you are able to play with greater ease and fluidity. This can also prevent injury or strain on your hands and wrists, which can occur when playing with incorrect technique over a long period of time.
It's important to remember that unlearning and re-learning the piano is a process, and progress may not happen overnight. Consistent practice and a positive attitude can help you overcome any frustration or setbacks along the way. By embracing the process of unlearning and re-learning, you can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the piano, and achieve your goals as a musician.
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3 Ways to Maintain Your Piano Skills Over the Summer

7/19/2019

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1. Take Lessons/Practice
Pausing any new skill that requires practice may result in slipping backwards and having to review or repeat past lessons. Continuing to take lessons is the most effective way to retain old and current skills as well as to build new ones. If you can’t find a teacher in person, online lessons are also great. If you can't do online lessons either, gently practice on your own and follow the instructions in your notes. 

2. Watch Your Videos
Video clips that you have recorded of yourself should be kept in a folder where you can watch and review all of the pieces that you’ve learned to play. Imagine playing along as you listen. When you’re unable to take lessons or practice much, the videos will help to boost your memory.
 
3. Read Your Music 
Reading music away from your instrument is a great way to retain information regarding the notes and dynamics. Students who visit repertoire or music books outside of the lesson develop a heightened sense of awareness regarding notation, patterns, hidden melodies, or other musical gems.
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9 bENEFITS OF DOING STRETCHES BEFORE PIANO PRACTICE

6/5/2019

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  1. Increases Comfort and Safety
    Stretching before practicing the piano can help increase comfort and safety. As playing the piano requires precise hand movements and control, stretching can help warm up the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your hands, wrists, and arms.
  2. Improves Flexibility
    Stretching can help improve flexibility in your hands, wrists, and arms. This can make it easier to play difficult pieces and perform challenging techniques, such as arpeggios and fast runs.
  3. Increases Range of Motion
    Stretching before practicing the piano can help increase your range of motion. This can make it easier to play with fluidity and expressiveness, as you'll be able to move your hands and fingers more freely.
  4. Enhances Blood Flow
    Stretching can enhance blood flow to your hands and arms. This can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, improving their overall function.
  5. Reduces Muscle Tension
    Stretching can help reduce muscle tension in your hands, wrists, and arms. This can help you play with more ease and comfort, and reduce the risk of developing hand and wrist pain or fatigue.
  6. Boosts Energy and Focus
    Stretching can help boost your energy and focus before practicing the piano. It can help increase circulation and oxygen flow to your brain, improving your mental clarity and focus.
  7. Improves Posture
    Stretching can help improve your posture while playing the piano. Good posture is important for playing with ease and preventing strain or injury.
  8. Enhances Performance
    Stretching can enhance your performance by helping you play with greater ease, accuracy, and control. It can also help reduce nervousness or anxiety before a performance.
  9. Promotes Relaxation
    ​Stretching can promote relaxation and reduce stress before practicing the piano. This can help you enjoy the process of playing and prevent burnout or fatigue.
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Piano Lesson in New york

6/3/2019

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piano lessons park slope, piano lessons brooklyn piano teacher new york
 In New York City, with its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant arts scene, finding the perfect piano teacher can be an exciting journey. Finding the right piano teacher in New York City means discovering someone who aligns with your musical goals and has a lot to offer whether you're looking to learn as a hobby or to achieve professional goals. Here are some tailored tips to help you locate the right piano instructor:
  1. Academic Excellence and Local Connections: Seek instructors with strong academic backgrounds and ties to prestigious local music institutions like Juilliard or Manhattan School of Music. These connections can often be found in neighborhoods such as the Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, Williamsburg, and other musical hubs across the city.
  2. Flexible Learning Options: Look for instructors who offer flexible learning options such as in-studio lessons, home visits, virtual lessons, or a combination of these. Whether you're in Midtown Manhattan, Park Slope in Brooklyn, Astoria in Queens, or elsewhere in the city, you can find instructors willing to accommodate your location and schedule.
  3. Musical Neighborhoods: Manhattan's Upper West Side boasts a rich musical history with proximity to Lincoln Center and Juilliard, while Brooklyn's Williamsburg is known for its thriving indie music scene and artistic community. In Queens, Astoria's diverse cultural landscape and access to local music venues make it a vibrant hub for aspiring musicians. Each borough offers unique opportunities to immerse yourself in music and find a teacher who resonates with your musical aspirations.
  4. Comprehensive Approach: Choose teachers who offer a blend of classical training and contemporary techniques, reflecting the diverse musical interests of New Yorkers.
  5. Early Registration Advised: In-demand studios and instructors in New York City can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Secure your preferred lesson times by registering early.
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    Jodi Ann Russell, Ed.D., M.M., B.M., N.C.T.M. brings a warm emphasis on mindfulness, relaxation, creativity and technique in personalized piano lessons and master classes 

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