Musicality is what transforms notes on a page into expressive, engaging performances, yet many music students struggle to develop it naturally. In this solo episode, we're diving into practical strategies for helping students unlock musical expression from the very beginning. From following dynamic markings to using storytelling, visualization, and phrasing techniques, I'm going to share simple yet powerful ways to make every piece more musical. Whether you're working with beginners or advanced students, these tips will help bring their playing to life.

• Why  musicality is one of the most important skills students can learn, preventing robotic performances.
• Importance of following musical markings like dynamics and ritardandos from the very beginning.
• How using stories and imagery can help students connect emotionally with the music.
• How visualizations can also help students with performance anxiety.
• She recommended practicing musical elements like dynamics and articulation separately from pieces to build awareness.
• Using sound effect stories as a tool to teach dynamics and articulation in a fun and engaging way.
• How strategic use of timing can enhance musical phrasing and assist with technical challenges.
• How singing phrases can help students understand shaping and expression.
• Importance of teaching texture and helping students differentiate between melody and accompaniment.

Links Mentioned

• TopMusicPiano Podcast 001: Using Stories in Beginner Piano Lessons
• Max's Galactic Adventure Sound Effect Piano Story

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

• Visit her website at RachelEhring.com
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

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