The TopCast: The Official Music Teachers' Podcast

To keep our music students engaged and interested, we must evolve with the ever-changing musical landscape. Our guest, Samantha Carrasco, unpacks how the new ABRSM 2025 syllabus has been developed to capture the attention of today’s students. Rather than sticking with traditional repertoire, the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) is now drawing from a wide range of genres, including pieces from movies, films, and even arrangements of pop songs. As an examiner, trainer, reviewer, and presenter for ABRSM, Samantha is passionate about introducing more diverse music styles into exam syllabuses. As Head of Keyboard at Peter Symonds College, Samantha knows firsthand that teenagers have less time nowadays to practice for hours on pieces they don’t relate to.

Listen in as we discuss how the syllabus changes aim to inspire and challenge students, making classical music education more inclusive and relevant for today’s musical landscape.

Samantha discusses her role and responsibilities at ABRSM.

She also discusses her role as Head of Keyboard and involvement in various music programs.

Overview of the ABRSM Piano Syllabus, including it's structure and updates.

Different types of ABRSM exams and their requirements.

Changes and goals of the 2025 Series, focusing on diversity and inclusion.

Discussions around the inclusion of pop and contemporary music.

Importance of giving students choice in their musical repertoire.

How ABRSM examiners ensure fair evaluation of different music styles.

Samantha performs excerpts from various pieces in the syllabus.

Accessibility and availability of ABRSM music recordings on streaming platforms.

Final thoughts from Samantha and where to find more information and resources.

Links Mentioned

Samantha Carrasco Website

Find out more about ABRSM here.

Today’s Guest

Pianist Samantha Carrasco explores a diverse and flexible repertoire as a recitalist, concerto soloist, chamber musician and accompanist. Alongside her performing career, Samantha continues to pursue her commitment to education. She is an examiner, trainer, reviewer and presenter for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, working nationally and internationally in classical music, diplomas and jazz. She presents teaching and examining seminars on behalf of ABRSM in China, the USA and the UK and presented a number of practise and pedagogical videos over the lockdown. Samantha is the Head of Keyboard at Peter Symonds College, Winchester, and helps to run the Hampshire Specialist Music Course. Samantha participates in BSO Live! education projects and has made various performance presentation podcasts and videos. She coaches chamber ensembles and adjudicates music competitions as well as hosting masterclasses for pianists, accompanists and ensemble groups.

Today’s Sponsor

ABRSM is The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and a global music education charity. At the heart of everything we do is our belief that music enriches lives. Building on our heritage, we offer face-to-face and digital exams, sheet music, recordings, apps and courses for students and teachers across the world.

In partnership with four Royal Schools of Music, we carry on a long legacy of musical excellence. More than an awarding organisation, we support learners from the first note they play and empower teachers who help build musical skills and encourage progress around the world.

As a charity, we use all of the surpluses we generate to make significant donations towards music education initiatives and to develop our support for learners and teachers around the world. We advocate for music and its many forms, playing our part to ensure the future of music education and its place in society. Together with our partners, our teachers and others around the world, we’ve been nurturing the future of music since 1889 — to help people start or continue their journey

Find out more about ABRSM.

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

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Music is not just a profession; it's a calling, a lifetime of passion and dedication. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Brian Shepard, the newly appointed CEO of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA). With a musical and professional journey that mirrors this passion, Brian shares his early experiences with piano and voice, his swift rise within MTNA, and his transformative vision for the organization’s future. Outside MTNA, Brian enriches the music community through various leadership roles and continues to touch lives as a musician. Join us as Brian reveals how he plans to ensure that MTNA’s 150-year legacy remains vibrant and relevant in the 21st century.

• Brian shared a brief overview of his musical background, from studying violin to piano and voice.
• He talks about his roles at MTNA and his quick transition from working in retail to becoming Director of Marketing and Public Relations.
• His journey to becoming the CEO of MTNA and his responsibilities in this role.
• Insight into Brian's current musical activities, including community concerts.
• Overview of MTNA's mission and its focus on public awareness and support for music teachers.
• The decline of music programs in schools and MTNA's role in advocating for music education.
• Explanation of MTNA's structure, including state affiliates and local associations.
• Details about MTNA's annual conference and its significance.
• The new all-virtual conference, Tempo, aimed at creating greater access for teachers.
• Brian outlines his vision for MTNA, focusing on community development, cutting-edge programming, increasing access, and improving infrastructure.
• Increasing diversity and accessibility to attract teachers of other instruments.
• Importance of creating a welcoming community and support system for all music teachers.
• Details about the upcoming MTNA national conference in Minneapolis and the TEMPO virtual conference in April.

Links Mentioned

• Brian Shepard LinkedIn Page
• Brian Shepard Facebook Page
• Brian Shepard Instagram Page
• Music Teachers National Association Website
• Music Teachers National Facebook Page

Today’s Guest

Brian Shepard is Chief Executive Officer of Music Teachers National Association. Brian first began his career at MTNA in 2003 as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

In addition to his work at MTNA, Brian volunteers on several other nonprofit boards and committees. From 2009 to the present, Brian has served in multiple leadership roles with the American Classical Music Hall of Fame. He currently serves the Hall of Fame as Board President. Since 2013, he has been a member of the CCMpower Board at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Previously, Brian has served on the Cincinnati Opera Sales and Marketing Committee and was President of the Middletown Music Club.

Brian is also an accomplished musician who performs frequently for church and community programs as a pianist, vocal soloist and choral conductor. A graduate of Miami University of Ohio, Brian holds degrees in marketing and music education. He was named an MTNA FOUNDATION Fellow in 2010.

Today’s Sponsor

ABRSM is The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and a global music education charity. At the heart of everything we do is our belief that music enriches lives. Building on our heritage, we offer face-to-face and digital exams, sheet music, recordings, apps and courses for students and teachers across the world.

In partnership with four Royal Schools of Music, we carry on a long legacy of musical excellence. More than an awarding organisation, we support learners from the first note they play and empower teachers who help build musical skills and encourage progress around the world.

As a charity, we use all of the surpluses we generate to make significant donations towards music education initiatives and to develop our support for learners and teachers around the world. We advocate for music and its many forms, playing our part to ensure the future of music education and its place in society. Together with our partners, our teachers and others around the world, we’ve been nurturing the future of music since 1889 — to help people start or continue their journey

Find Out More about ABRSM.

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

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The beauty of music lies not just in its performance, but in the journey of learning and teaching it. In today’s episode, our guest, Emma Fajcz, shares her inspiring journey from being a reluctant piano student to becoming a YouTube sensation known for her practical and engaging piano tutorials. She transitioned from traditional one-on-one lessons to leveraging YouTube and social media to reach a broader audience. Emma discusses her creative process, how she balances multiple income streams, and offers invaluable advice to piano teachers looking to expand their online presence. Stay tuned as Emma reveals her top practice tips and insights into making piano practice both fun and efficient.

Emma shared a brief overview of her background and music teaching studio.

She shared about her transition from traditional teaching to YouTube.

Her current teaching approach and some actionable tips for piano students and teachers.

How she combined online business skills with piano teaching on YouTube.

Splitting content into niche channels for better growth.

Using Instagram for engaging with other piano teachers and students.

The importance of using email marketing to grow your email list.

Emma’s performance and personal practice tips and insights.

How to handle social media overwhelm.

Some tools and software that she uses, such as YouTube's built-in scheduler and Meta Business Suite for Instagram/Facebook.

Her monetization strategy and why she prefers organic growth over paid advertising.

She shared about her food blog that she co-runs with her mom.

Links Mentioned

Emma Blaire Piano Website

Learn Piano with Emma Blair YouTube Page

Emma Blaire Piano Instagram Page

Emma Blair Piano Facebook Page

Today’s Guest

Emma Fajcz (fights) AKA Emma Blair Piano, a pianist of fifteen years and a piano teacher for four, didn’t have a typical start to piano. She quit piano lessons after several years to focus on dance, but later found her passion for piano as a teenager. After a few more years of piano, Emma figured that there must be ways to streamline her practice routine so she could learn more in less time--and what she learned was too helpful to keep to herself! Through her social media and email newsletter, Emma shares piano practice tips that help piano students and teachers make practice both fun and efficient.

Today’s Sponsor

ABRSM is The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and a global music education charity. At the heart of everything we do is our belief that music enriches lives. Building on our heritage, we offer face-to-face and digital exams, sheet music, recordings, apps and courses for students and teachers across the world.

In partnership with four Royal Schools of Music, we carry on a long legacy of musical excellence. More than an awarding organisation, we support learners from the first note they play and empower teachers who help build musical skills and encourage progress around the world.

As a charity, we use all of the surpluses we generate to make significant donations towards music education initiatives and to develop our support for learners and teachers around the world. We advocate for music and its many forms, playing our part to ensure the future of music education and its place in society. Together with our partners, our teachers and others around the world, we’ve been nurturing the future of music since 1889 — to help people start or continue their journey

Find out more about ABRSM.

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Sometimes, life forces us to pause, reflect, and completely redefine our path. Dr. Edward Gifford’s story is a powerful testament to this truth. A former senior lecturer in music education, Dr. Gifford spent decades shaping future educators, developing innovative teaching methods, and inspiring students with his passion for music. But when burnout and a life-altering diagnosis struck, he was forced to pivot and reinvent his life. In this episode, Edward shares how he transitioned from academia to life coaching, how he fought back against stage four cancer, and the profound wisdom he's gained on balancing purpose, well-being, and the power of love over fear. Join us as we dive into the powerful lessons he's learned about living with purpose and finding peace amidst life’s greatest challenges.

• Edward shared about his background as a music teacher, using a mix of singing, movement, music games, and incorporating methods like Kodaly, Orff, and Suzuki.
• He emphasized whole-body learning and music immersion before introducing instruments.
• How he fostered deeper musical understanding by encouraging creativity through movement, instruments, and imaginative play.
• His backstory and connection with Bec Stewart, TopMusicPro’s community manager.
• How he faced burnout, which led him to step away from music teaching.
• His life coaching career, guiding people to discover their life purpose using techniques like asking meaningful questions.
• He shared about his life-altering diagnosis.
• The importance of breathwork, mindfulness, and meditation to maintain mental wellness.
• His perspective on life and how he views life as seasons.
• Edward encourages living with purpose daily, seeing it as the key to peace and fulfillment.
• He shared about his book, "Broken to Whole: How to Put Humpty Together Again”.

Links Mentioned

• Dr Edward Gifford's website
• Dr Edward Gifford's book: Broken to Whole: How to Put Humpty Together Again
• TopCast 388: Tim and Bec React to a Creative Piano Lesson from 1984!

Today's Guest

Prior to starting his life coaching business today’s guest was a senior lecturer in Music Education involved in undergraduate and post graduate teacher education within the University sector for some 20 years in WA, Tasmania and QLD. He’s also author of children’s music books - Read and Play the Singing Way.

In 1991, Edward completed his PhD in Music Education, also at the University of London. He took up his first tertiary education teaching post in Tasmania in 1982 and moved to Griffith University in 1987. In 1998, due to a significant life changing event which brought his academic career to a sudden end, Edward reinvented his career to become a coach, trainer, speaker and author. Much of this period was also taken up in business coaching for small business owners.

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREELeave us a voice message

If you would like to leave the Podcast Team a voicemail and have your burning questions answered on a future show or YouTube video, visit this link to leave us a voicemail today. Tim also accepts requests for his Pop Song Solutions videos if you have a pop song you’d like help teaching a student.

Today, we’re chatting with our very own Rebecca Stewart, a talented piano instructor and the Community Manager and Head of Certification at TopMusic. With a professional journey that includes over two decades of teaching with Yamaha Music Education Centres, Rebecca brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. We dive into a nostalgic video from 1984, showcasing Rebecca's childhood piano lessons with Dr. Edward Gifford. This episode highlights their discussion on creative teaching techniques like whole-body learning, solfège, and transposition. We also reflect on how these innovative methods shaped Rebecca's approach to music education and their relevance in today's teaching environment. Tune in to explore the intersection of past memories and modern advancements in music pedagogy.

• Rebecca shared a brief overview of her work background and her roles at TopMusic.
• She introduced a video of her childhood piano lessons with Dr. Edward Gifford.
• Discussion of various teaching techniques seen in the video, including movement and physical interaction and they highlight the novelty and effectiveness of Dr. Gifford’s methods.
• Tim shares his own music lesson experiences.
• Rebecca reflects on her accent and undiagnosed ADHD during her childhood.
• Importance of whole-body learning and physical movement in music education.
• Discussion on sensory memories contributing to learning experiences, usage of solfège and sneaky repetition in lessons.
• The importance of teaching transposition to children.
• Benefits of singing and playing simple melodies for enhancing sight-reading skills.
• Tim and Rebecca reflect on physical and imaginative engagement in music.
• Edward’s impact on Rebecca’s teaching methods.
• How a blended approach to music teaching contributes to long-term appreciation and understanding.

Links Mentioned

• Click here to watch the YouTube video of this interview
• Link to Tim's childhood piano lesson YouTube video
• TopCast Episode 387: A New Pathway to TopMusic Teacher Certification

Today's Guest

Rebecca grew up listening to her three older sisters practice their musical instruments. She delighted in her childhood music lessons and wanted to teach young children in a fun and creative way. Her piano teacher at Melbourne University recommended the Yamaha method, and Rebecca taught with Yamaha Music Education Centres from 1998 to 2018. She loved being a national teacher trainer with Yamaha, and enjoyed opportunities to travel to Toronto and Tokyo for Yamaha teacher development events. In 2016 Rebecca went to Jakarta where her 8-year-old Yamaha student performed his original composition at the Asia Pacific Junior Original Concert. Her first book "Sight Reading Secrets Grade One" was published in 2004, and there are now nine books in the series. In 2023, Rebecca worked with Tim Topham in developing the TopMusic Certification program.

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREELeave us a voice message

If you would like to leave the Podcast Team a voicemail and have your burning questions answered on a future show or YouTube video, visit this link to leave us a voicemail today. Tim also accepts requests for his Pop Song Solutions videos if you have a pop song you’d like help teaching a student.

As a music teacher, have you ever wished for a clear, guided path to professional recognition? In this episode, we're exploring a new pathway to TopMusic Teacher Certification program, exclusively available through our new Studio Plus membership. Today, I'll be sharing my own teaching journey, reflecting on the challenges of navigating the early years without a clear guide, and how this new certification is designed to empower music teachers with confidence and professional credibility. Whether you're looking to refine your pedagogy, improve your business skills, or gain recognition as a certified instructor, this episode is packed with insights into how you can elevate your teaching studio and career.

• Becoming TopMusic Certified and how it can transform your teaching studio.
• Overview of TopMusic Certification, now part of the Studio Plus membership.
• Tim reflects on his struggles and the lack of a clear guide in his early teaching career.
• Why get TopMusic certified  and why choose TopMusic Certification?
• The PRESTO Framework.
• 10 key learning objectives, including creative teaching strategies, curriculum design, studio management, and marketing.
• Who is TopMusic Certification for?
• How to join TopMusic Teacher Certicication?
• Assessment process and renewal.

Links Mentioned

• TopMusic Teacher Certification
• TopMusic 12-Week Studio Transformation
• Join TopMusicPro or Upgrade to Studio Plus now
• TopCast Episode 386: Introducing Our Studio Plus Membership!
• Register for the The 6 Cores of Music Teaching and Studio Business Success Workshop

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

Leave us a voice message

If you would like to leave the Podcast Team a voicemail and have your burning questions answered on a future show or YouTube video, visit this link to leave us a voicemail today. Tim also accepts requests for his Pop Song Solutions videos if you have a pop song you’d like help teaching a student.

 

Every teacher reaches a moment when they crave deeper connection, personalized guidance, and the tools to truly elevate their craft. Today, we’re unveiling Studio Plus, a membership designed to meet that exact need. In this episode, we’ll explore how this new membership goes beyond the basics, offering one-on-one coaching, advanced courses, and an empowering community to help you take your studio to the next level. Join me as we dive into the transformational impact Studio Plus can have on your music teaching journey.

• Alfred Music Update: New Alfred Music publications now available in Australia through local stores supplied by Encore Music Distributors.
• Tim announces Studio Plus, a brand-new membership level in TopMusicPro.
• Key features of Studio Plus, including 1-on-1 coaching, private messaging channel, twice-monthly group check-ins, exclusive courses, etc.
• Extra perks include teaching video assessments and website audits.
• Who’s Studio Plus for?
• Update on the Evolution tier of TopMusicPro.
• Sneak peek on Multi-Teacher memberships launching in early 2025

Links Mentioned

• Join TopMusicPro or Upgrade to Studio Plus now
• TopMusicSheets
• TopMusic Certification
• Music Teacher StartUp - Evolution Membership
• TopCast 383: Introducing Fresh New Music from Alfred!
• Encore Music Distributors
• Email us at [email protected]

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREELeave us a voice message

If you would like to leave the Podcast Team a voicemail and have your burning questions answered on a future show or YouTube video, visit this link to leave us a voicemail today. Tim also accepts requests for his Pop Song Solutions videos if you have a pop song you’d like help teaching a student.

 

Today, we're exploring the journey of Will Suit, the TopMusicSheets composer for October. Will is a native of North Georgia whose lifelong love for music has profoundly shaped his career. Starting piano and singing at the tender age of five under the guidance of his musically inclined parents, Will's talents flourished in a nurturing environment. We discuss the importance of integrating lyrics into teaching, a technique that helps students connect more deeply with music. He shares stories of student interactions, his methodical yet creative approach to composing, and his influences from various musical traditions, including bluegrass, gospel, and classical. Join us as we listen to Will's incredible journey and gain insights into his unique approach to music education.

Discussion on Will Suit's piece "Dance," aimed at early intermediate level students.

Will shared a brief overview of his background and his music studio.

Conversation on pedagogical composition and writing for specific student needs.

Importance of lyrics in teaching, especially for engagement and memory.

How he writes methodically for students and improvises to meet student needs.

Discussion on elementary pieces like "Busy, Buzzy, Fuzzy Bumblebee" and "Night of Halloween," which introduce chromatic scales early on.

Will's varied musical influences, including bluegrass, southern gospel, and classical.

His inspiration from historical composers, like Gustav Holst, Samuel Barber, and Verdi.

Importance of using improv with students using left-hand accompaniments, and connecting songs to different learning paths.

Links Mentioned

Learn more about TopMusicSheets here

Will Suit Website

Will Suit Music at Music Teacher Resources

Watch Tim playthrough this TopMusicSheets Collection here!

Today's Guest

Will Suit is a native of North Georgia. His involvement in music is a lifelong love. He owns a small music school near Atlanta. Will began singing and playing piano at age 5. His dad was a church pastor and his mom the pianist. So, needless to say, his talents were developed and pursued in that setting. Upon graduation from college, he spent more than twenty years as a church music director. After leaving that profession in 2005, Will continued his love for writing as well as providing private music instruction.

He worked as an independent contractor until 2018 when he opened Pedal Point Music where he continues to maintain a full studio of students, as well as a myriad other activities. He loves blogging, writing poetry, and, of course, composing music. Will’s love of music is not lost on his young students, who eagerly look forward to lessons with “Mr. Will”.

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Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

 

Welcome to this special episode, recorded live during my 2020 Piano Pivot Live event—a piano teachers’ conference unlike any other! Nicola and I dive deep into my journey from being a university student studying audio engineering to becoming a full-time music educator and entrepreneur. We explore the pivotal moments in my career, including why I returned to music after a decade, how I built my blog and courses, and what led me to coaching and organizing events. We also discuss the challenges of managing time between family, teaching, and growing a business. For anyone curious about my evolution from a regular teacher to launching successful online ventures, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.

Tim and Nicola began an open fireside chat where audience members could ask questions.

Impact of Tim's first piano teacher, Ms. Mac, who was crucial to his music journey.

The importance of non-traditional teaching methods.

How to handle students who express interest in learning pop music but don’t provide specific requests.

Using improvisation in piano teaching.

Handling parental concerns on improvisation.

Musical mashups for beginners and teens.

Tim shared some business and marketing insights, particularly online marketing strategies and how they apply to music studios.

Why Tim returned to music after exploring other entrepreneurial ventures.

How he balance family, piano teaching, blogging, and other ventures.

His journey from teacher to entrepreneur.

The launch of his initial online course, which made $30,000 in revenue.

Tim's most valuable advice for a teacher starting their journey.

TopMusicPro Members' Link

Fireside Chat with Tim and Nicola at Piano Pivot Live

Today’s Sponsor

Alfred Music, the leader in music education for over 100 years, produces educational, reference, pop, and performance materials for teachers, students, professionals, and hobbyists spanning every musical instrument, style, and difficulty level. Alfred Music is located in Colorado, with offices around the world, including Germany, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

Since 1922, Alfred Music has been dedicated to helping people learn, teach, and play music. Alfred Music currently has over 150,000 active titles and represents a wide range of well-known publications —from methods like Alfred’s Basic Guitar, Alfred’s Basic Piano Library, Premier Piano Course, Sound Innovations, and Suzuki, to artists like Bruce Springsteen, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones, to brands like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, The Wizard of Oz, and Billboard.

In addition to its own titles, Alfred Music distributes products from over 150 companies, including Advance Music, Belwin, Edition Peters, The FJH Music Company Inc., Faber Music, Jamey Aebersold Jazz, and LudwigMasters Publications. Alfred Music is now also paired with MakeMusic, which is part of Peaksware Holdings, LLC portfolio of companies, to transform how music is composed, published, taught, learned, and performed by bringing together the leaders in educational music publishing and music technology.

Visit their website at www.alfred.com.

Exclusive Discount for Podcast Listeners

Exclusively for TopCast listeners, go to alfred.com/podcast and use code TopMusic at checkout to save 30% on these titles and everything else on alfred.com.

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly.

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Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with three talented composers from Alfred Music: Elizabeth Swift, Connor Chee, and Angela Marshall. Join us as we delve into their unique backgrounds, explore their latest compositions, and discover how they are bringing fresh, engaging, and culturally rich music to students and teachers worldwide. Connor Chee, a renowned Navajo composer, celebrates his cultural heritage with his collection, Sand Paintings, blending traditional Navajo melodies with classical techniques. Angela Marshall, an educator and author, introduces Take the Stage, a collection designed to make young beginners the stars of their recitals with fun, performance-oriented pieces. Elizabeth Swift takes us on an adventure with Saga Land, inspired by video game music, aiming to captivate and motivate teenagers to play expressively. This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and beautiful music you won't want to miss.

Tim introduces three composers whose new collections are being released by Alfred Music.

Discussion with Connor Chee about his new collection, Sand Paintings.

Connor shared about his background, being a renowned Navajo composer, blending classical music with traditional Navajo elements.

How "Sand Paintings" was inspired by the healing nature of traditional Navajo sand paintings.

Angela Marshall shares her journey as a composer, author, and educator, discussing her collection, Take the Stage, designed for young beginner pianists.

Her creative process and how she integrates creativity and variety into her compositions.

Goals of Take the Stage: Create an engaging, performance-oriented pieces for young students.

Elizabeth Swift discusses her new collection "Saga Land," inspired by video game music and aimed at motivating teens to play the piano.

She shared a brief overview of her background and her transition from classical training to composing engaging, expressive music for students.

Goals of Saga Land: Immerse students in a storytelling experience through music.

Using titles and narratives to enhance students' engagement and creativity in learning.

Importance of providing accessible, diverse, and engaging musical resources for students and teachers alike.

Guests' Links Mentioned

Connor Chee Website

Connor Chee Facebook Page

Connor Chee YouTube Channel

Angela Marshall Website

Angela Marshall Facebook Page

Angela Marshall Instagram Page

Elizabeth Swift Website

Elizabeth Swift Facebook Page

Elizabeth Swift Instagram Page

Today’s Guest

 

Connor Chee

Connor Chee is a renowned Diné (Navajo) composer and pianist celebrated for his evocative blend of classical music with traditional Navajo elements. His compositions often draw inspiration from his cultural heritage, seamlessly weaving together Diné melodies and classical piano techniques. A recipient of multiple awards, Connor's work has been featured in prestigious concert halls and festivals across the globe. His albums, praised for their emotional depth and technical mastery, showcase his unique ability to tell stories through music. Beyond his performances and recordings, Connor is dedicated to music education and cultural preservation, sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation of musicians

Angela Marshall

Angela Marshall has built a multifaceted career as a composer, author, and educator. She has published a range of works, including educational piano solos, instructional music books, and numerous novels written under the name A.G. Marshall. Angela's extensive teaching experience spans online and in-person instruction at private studios, universities, public schools, and charter schools, where she has taught piano, composition, and voice. Angela holds a Master of Music Education with an emphasis in piano pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma. Her Alfred solo "Romanza" won the prestigious Lynn Freeman Olson Composition Award and was an NFMC Federation Festivals Bulletin selection. When she’s not writing or teaching, Angela enjoys dancing and traveling the world.

Elizabeth Swift

Elizabeth Swift is a composer and piano teacher based in greater Cincinnati, Ohio. While rooted in classical training, Elizabeth integrates a variety of musical styles in her compositions, fostering a rich and eclectic musical experience for a diverse range of students. Elizabeth studied Piano Performance and Music Education at the University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music. In addition to composing, she is passionate about teaching her students to compose, improvise, and interpret music in a way that reflects their unique creativity and individuality. Drawing inspiration from her adventures in travel and camping alongside her husband, four children, and two dogs, Elizabeth infuses her teaching and composing with a sense of adventure and exploration.

Today's Sponsor

Alfred Music, the leader in music education for over 100 years, produces educational, reference, pop, and performance materials for teachers, students, professionals, and hobbyists spanning every musical instrument, style, and difficulty level. Alfred Music is located in Colorado, with offices around the world, including Germany, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

Since 1922, Alfred Music has been dedicated to helping people learn, teach, and play music. Alfred Music currently has over 150,000 active titles and represents a wide range of well-known publications —from methods like Alfred’s Basic Guitar, Alfred’s Basic Piano Library, Premier Piano Course, Sound Innovations, and Suzuki, to artists like Bruce Springsteen, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones, to brands like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, The Wizard of Oz, and Billboard.

In addition to its own titles, Alfred Music distributes products from over 150 companies, including Advance Music, Belwin, Edition Peters, The FJH Music Company Inc., Faber Music, Jamey Aebersold Jazz, and LudwigMasters Publications. Alfred Music is now also paired with MakeMusic, which is part of Peaksware Holdings, LLC portfolio of companies, to transform how music is composed, published, taught, learned, and performed by bringing together the leaders in educational music publishing and music technology.

Visit their website at https://www.alfred.com/.

Exclusive Discount for Podcast Listeners

Exclusively for TopCast listeners, go to alfred.com/podcast and use code TopMusic at checkout to save 30% on these titles and everything else on alfred.com.

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