The TopCast: The Official Music Teachers' Podcast

If you've ever felt unsure about how to teach chords or help your students create music from scratch, this episode is for you. Today, I’m sharing a deep dive into my all-time favourite course, 4 Chord Composing. I’ll walk you through why this framework works so well, how it connects theory and creativity, and how you can use it even if you’ve never composed a thing in your life. You’ll also hear from other teachers who’ve used this approach to transform their students' confidence and engagement.

Tim reflected on how most teachers weren't taught chords or lead sheets in their own lessons.

He explained how a chord-based approach improves sight reading, creativity, and understanding.

The benefits of teaching harmony through popular styles were emphasized.

Tim introduced his favorite course: 4 Chord Composing Course, offering a 10-week plan for introducing students to composing using just four chords.

He highlighted how the framework builds theory, form, and improvisation skills naturally.

How it simplifies teaching composition and makes learning feel intuitive.

The course videos show Tim teaching a real student, making the approach easy to follow.

Tim shared feedback from teachers who have used the course with great success and student engagement.

Links Mentioned

Four Chord Composing Course

Buy the course for only $49 using the coupon code CHORDS100

Blog: The Power of 4 Chord Composing

TopMusicPro Courses

TopMusic Competition Composition 2025

Today’s Sponsor

RSL Awards is leading the next generation of creativity. We are an international Awarding Organisation, creating qualifications in music, performing arts, and creative industries subjects.

Our vision is to help teachers and students within the creative arts sector through a range of innovative, relevant, and rewarding resources and qualifications. This includes our flagship Rockschool graded resources for piano.

The new edition of Rockschool Piano offers a holistic approach to piano education, shaped around the needs of today’s musicians. Exploring five centuries of music, from classical to classic rock, this genre-spanning syllabus features an expansive mix of popular Hit Tunes, bespoke Rockschool Originals, and brand-new suites of technical study, all packed with class-leading technology.

Find out more about RSL Awards here.

RSL Online Shop

Pre-Order the New Rockschool Piano Syllabus

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 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Exams don’t have to feel like a chore. Today, I’m chatting with Nathan Theodoulou from RSL about the exciting changes in the new Rockschool Piano syllabus. Whether your students love pop, jazz, film music, or creative expression, this new syllabus has something for them. We dive into the vision behind the redesign, how it encourages musicality and flexibility, and what it means for modern piano teachers looking to inspire a new generation of players.

Tim welcomed Nathan Theodoulou from RSL to introduce the new Rockschool Piano syllabus.

Nathan shared how the syllabus combines classical, pop, film, and jazz influences.

He explained how students are assessed on creativity, interpretation, and musicality.

The new syllabus offers a balance of structured progression and modern flexibility.

Nathan emphasized the importance of having music that students genuinely want to play.

He described how they redesigned technical exercises to be musically engaging.

The importance of global accessibility and flexible delivery modes was discussed.

Tim and Nathan explored how the new syllabus empowers teachers without overprescribing.

Nathan explained the rationale behind removing sight reading as a mandatory element.

He highlighted new options for creativity in exams, such as improvisation or original composition.

The syllabus aims to develop all-around musicianship—not just technical proficiency.

Music teachers were encouraged to explore the new books and find pieces that excite their students.

Links Mentioned

RSL Website

RSL Online Shop

Pre-Order the New Rockschool Piano Syllabus

Today’s Guest

Nathan is Director of Product and Marketing for the RSL Group. This includes the flagship Rockschool brand, which operates across 60 countries. He oversees the creation of all RSL publications and has created over 50 books to date for the company. He also develops commercial partnerships with the music industry and manufactures, such as Marshall, Yamaha and Abbey Road Studios.

Nathan has over 20 years of experience in the education sector. He was a consultant for global management firm Mott MacDonald. He has worked as a teacher trainer, trained PGCE students and Newly Qualified Teachers. Nathan also spent 10 years with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance and helped to create the award-winning youth theatre now known as Company 3. He also served on the Board of Trustees for the European Piano Teachers Association (EPTA).

Nathan maintains a career as a composer and musical director, composing music for stage and screen, and performing at venues including the Royal Albert Hall, Royal Shakespeare Company, Barbican and Royal Festival Hall. He has received a diverse selection of commissions including two concertos for cellist Guy Johnston, works for the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and Academy of St Martin in the Fields, documentary soundtracks for Amazon and scores for theatre productions at the National Theatre. He loves all genres of music, regularly switching between classical, jazz, rock, latin and electronic music. Nathan is a multi-instrumentalist and had recorded on guitar, bass, piano, saxophones and flute.

Today’s Sponsor

RSL Awards is leading the next generation of creativity. We are an international Awarding Organisation, creating qualifications in music, performing arts, and creative industries subjects.

Our vision is to help teachers and students within the creative arts sector through a range of innovative, relevant, and rewarding resources and qualifications. This includes our flagship Rockschool graded resources for piano.

The new edition of Rockschool Piano offers a holistic approach to piano education, shaped around the needs of today’s musicians. Exploring five centuries of music, from classical to classic rock, this genre-spanning syllabus features an expansive mix of popular Hit Tunes, bespoke Rockschool Originals, and brand-new suites of technical study, all packed with class-leading technology.

Find out more about RSL Awards here.

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 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Method books can be incredibly helpful or incredibly overwhelming. Today, I’m having a chat with Anna Beth Rucker, the creator of Piano Method Navigator, a free online tool that helps teachers explore and compare method books with clarity. We dive into how this resource came to life, what it offers, and how it can support better decision-making no matter what stage of teaching you’re in. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to choose the “right” book, this episode will definitely help.

Anna Beth shared a brief overview of her background as the creator of the Piano Method Navigator.

How the tool helps teachers explore method books with more confidence.

She shared her motivation for creating a free, user-friendly tool for the teaching community.

The value of method book comparison in choosing materials for different student needs.

She highlighted the searchable filters and categories that make the Navigator so practical.

How the tool reflects her belief in empowering teachers, not replacing judgment.

Tim and Anna Beth explored the challenges teachers face when switching or mixing methods.

The importance of understanding teaching priorities, sequencing, pacing and philosophy.

Anna Beth encouraged teachers to be curious and experimental with new materials.

She shared how her nonprofit and consulting experience shaped her approach to design and accessibility.

Tim praised the Navigator as a much-needed tool for piano teachers of all levels.

Since the recording of this podcast, Piano Method Navigator includes a new tool: the Lesson Planning Assistant—a time-saving feature that shows what your student has just learned, is learning now, and is about to learn, making lesson planning faster and more strategic.

Links Mentioned

Piano Method Navigator Website

Piano Method Navigator Instragram Page: @pianomethodnavigator

Today’s Guest

Anna Beth Rucker is a pianist, educator, and the creator of Piano Method Navigator, a free online tool that helps teachers explore method books with clarity and confidence. With nearly two decades of teaching experience and two degrees in pedagogy, she brings both depth and curiosity to piano education. In addition to her work in music, she has spent years in the nonprofit sector—designing strategy, streamlining operations, and shaping messaging. She now leads Tree Frog Solutions, a refreshingly straightforward consulting firm that helps nonprofits and creative businesses do big things on a small budget. She lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband, Ben, their goofy golden retriever, Clive, and their three-legged cat, Charles-François.

Today’s Sponsor

Piano Marvel is an innovative piano education platform designed to empower piano teachers and inspire students. Blending traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, Piano Marvel offers powerful tools to streamline teaching, track student progress, and enhance learning outcomes in both in-person and online lessons.

With a digital piano connected via USB, MIDI, or microphone mode, students gain instant feedback on their playing, build essential skills like sight-reading, rhythm, and ear-training, and stay motivated with real-time scoring and gamified learning. Teachers can assign exercises, monitor progress remotely, and access detailed analytics to tailor instruction more effectively.

The platform features the Standard Assessment of Sight Reading (SASR)—the world’s only standardized sight-reading test—and a robust Music Library of over 30,000 songs, from classical to contemporary hits. Its three unique modes—Practice, Play, and Learn—support every learning style, helping students progress confidently at their own pace.

Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced students, Piano Marvel provides a flexible, engaging, and time-saving solution for modern piano studios.

Piano Marvel: revolutionizing piano teaching, one student at a time. To learn more, visit pianomarvel.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.

TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Technology can’t replace the heart of great teaching, but when used well, it can supercharge our impact. Today, I’m chatting with Aaron and Heidi Garner, the founders of Piano Marvel and sponsors of this month’s podcast. We dive into their inspiring startup journey, explore how their platform supports practice, sight reading, and studio efficiency, and unpack why it’s more relevant than ever in today’s teaching landscape. Whether you’ve been curious about using tech in your lessons or are looking for ways to boost student motivation, this episode has something for you.

Aaron shared how teaching group piano sparked the idea for Piano Marvel.

The importance of allowing students to progress at their own pace was emphasized.

Heidi explained how they secured early funding through friends and family.

They discussed the challenge of early teacher resistance to technology.

How the software helps students practice notes and rhythm accurately.

Heidi highlighted how Piano Marvel supports teachers with time-saving tools.

The value of using Piano Marvel during lessons to improve practice habits was shared.

How the SASR (Standard Assessment of Sight-Reading) test tracks progress with gamified feedback.

Tim and Aaron discussed how faster repertoire learning leads to deeper artistry.

Heidi shared how Piano Marvel’s teacher community supports learning and tech adoption.

The new Group Play feature allows synchronized ensemble performance across devices.

Teachers can upload and annotate sheet music directly within the platform.

Aaron emphasized that technology enhances, not replaces, the role of great teachers.

Special Offer for Podcast Listeners

Piano Marvel Back-to-School Sale - Kick off the school year with 15% off an Annual Premium Subscription, plus enjoy an extra month absolutely free, and get instant access to the PDF version of the FUNdamentals Book to supercharge your practice. Visit pianomarvel.com or go directly to store.pianomarvel.com to claim your discount.

Links Mentioned

Piano Marvel Website

Standard Assessment of Sight Reading (SASR)

Today’s Guest

Aaron Garner did his undergraduate studies in piano performance and pedagogy, along with composition at Brigham Young University and the University of Southern Colorado. While doing his graduate studies in performance and pedagogy with a secondary emphasis in composition at the University of Northern Colorado, he taught class piano, where he faced teaching students of differing abilities simultaneously in one classroom. The difficulties of that task led Aaron to develop the Piano Marvel software. Piano Marvel was founded in January of 2008, and the first version of the software was released at MTNA in Atlanta, GA, in March of 2009.

Heidi Garner helped start Piano Marvel with her husband, Aaron Garner, in 2008. Over the years, Heidi has taken on several positions within the company, and she currently serves as the Chief Marketing Officer. You might come across her on our social media platforms or at a conference! Furthermore, Heidi is a personal trainer and running coach specializing in fostering behavioral change. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Kinesiology at the University of Northern Colorado. Heidi and Aaron have four children, all of whom play some role in Piano Marvel, and so far, four grandchildren.

Today’s Sponsor

Piano Marvel is an innovative piano education platform designed to empower piano teachers and inspire students. Blending traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, Piano Marvel offers powerful tools to streamline teaching, track student progress, and enhance learning outcomes in both in-person and online lessons.

With a digital piano connected via USB, MIDI, or microphone mode, students gain instant feedback on their playing, build essential skills like sight-reading, rhythm, and ear-training, and stay motivated with real-time scoring and gamified learning. Teachers can assign exercises, monitor progress remotely, and access detailed analytics to tailor instruction more effectively.

The platform features the Standard Assessment of Sight Reading (SASR)—the world’s only standardized sight-reading test—and a robust Music Library of over 30,000 songs, from classical to contemporary hits. Its three unique modes—Practice, Play, and Learn—support every learning style, helping students progress confidently at their own pace.

Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced students, Piano Marvel provides a flexible, engaging, and time-saving solution for modern piano studios.

Piano Marvel: revolutionizing piano teaching, one student at a time. To learn more, visit pianomarvel.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.

TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Let’s be honest, teaching students how to practice well is one of the most important things we do, and also one of the hardest to make stick. That’s why I’m so excited to spotlight our “Practice Hacks” Course by Noa Kageyama, now available on the TopMusic Courses platform. In this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes look at the course, explore what makes practice effective, and reflect on the mindset shifts that can completely change how we and our students approach progress.

Tim introduced the “Practice Hacks” Course by performance psychologist Noa Kageyama.

He shared how the course helps teachers and students overcome common practice pitfalls.

The importance of deliberate, mindful practice over repetition was emphasized.

How progress boosts motivation and builds consistent practice habits.

Tim previewed key topics like the mastery illusion and skill retrieval.

How the course breaks down strategies based on research in psychology and learning science.

Teachers are encouraged to improve their own practice through this course.

Tim highlighted the flexibility of TopMusic Courses for one-off purchases.

Links Mentioned

Find out more about Practice Hacks for Musicians Course by Noa Kageyama here

Buy the course for only $49 using the coupon code NOAHACKS25

TopMusic Course

Find out more about TopMusicSheets here.

Today’s Sponsor

Piano Marvel is an innovative piano education platform designed to empower piano teachers and inspire students. Blending traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, Piano Marvel offers powerful tools to streamline teaching, track student progress, and enhance learning outcomes in both in-person and online lessons.

With a digital piano connected via USB, MIDI, or microphone mode, students gain instant feedback on their playing, build essential skills like sight-reading, rhythm, and ear-training, and stay motivated with real-time scoring and gamified learning. Teachers can assign exercises, monitor progress remotely, and access detailed analytics to tailor instruction more effectively.

The platform features the Standard Assessment of Sight Reading (SASR)—the world’s only standardized sight-reading test—and a robust Music Library of over 30,000 songs, from classical to contemporary hits. Its three unique modes—Practice, Play, and Learn—support every learning style, helping students progress confidently at their own pace.

Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced students, Piano Marvel provides a flexible, engaging, and time-saving solution for modern piano studios.

Piano Marvel: revolutionizing piano teaching, one student at a time. To learn more, visit pianomarvel.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.

TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

What if your beginner students could master all 24 scales in just a few weeks? Today, I’m chatting with the incredible Ambre Hammond, whose high-energy, no-limits approach to piano teaching is turning heads and transforming students. We dive into how she introduces advanced technique from lesson one, keeps things joyful and motivating, and uses creative challenges to make even Hanon exercises exciting. If you’ve ever wondered how to spark faster progress and deeper engagement in your students, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.

Ambre shared a brief overview of her background and her unique approach to teaching.

How she introduces all 24 scales from lesson one, even with beginners.

She emphasized that the way teachers frame difficulty affects student mindset.

The value of using simplified classics and Bach early on was highlighted.

How she makes scales and technique fun, using imagination and humor.

She explained her use of games, timing challenges, and playful psychological tricks.

The importance of strong parent involvement and a supportive studio culture was discussed.

Ambre emphasized setting high expectations regardless of age or level.

How she motivates students with goal-setting, performance, and creative rewards.

Her early training, being homeschooled and taught by her mother.

The role of inspiration, joy, and student-teacher connection was central to her philosophy.

Tim and Ambre explored why challenging students unlocks their musical potential.

Guest Links Mentioned

Ambre's website: www.ambrehammond.com

Ambre's Instagram page: @ambrepianist and @ambreteacher

Ambre's YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@ambrepianist

Ambre's Facebook Page: Elite Piano School

Links Mentioned

Find out more about TopMusicSheets here.

Join the upcoming Spotlight Session with Nicola Cantan - find out more here.

Today's Guest

Classical pianist, Ambre Hammond, completed her Associate and Licentiate Diplomas in Piano as an eleven year old, while being home-schooled in Moss Vale, Australia. Her debut with orchestra at age 16 was playing the Concerto No. 3 by Rachmaninoff with the Orquesta Sinfonica de Cordoba in Argentina as part of her first prize in the International Music Competition of Cordoba. More recently, Ambre has added composing to her list of accomplishments. She has released two albums of compositions for solo piano. Ambre is in demand as a motivational speaker, with regular appearances at venues throughout Australia. She has also had speaking engagements in America, and most recently (2018) was the keynote speaker for Corning Gorilla Glass in Singapore.

Today's Sponsor

Piano Marvel is an innovative piano education platform designed to empower piano teachers and inspire students. Blending traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, Piano Marvel offers powerful tools to streamline teaching, track student progress, and enhance learning outcomes in both in-person and online lessons.

With a digital piano connected via USB, MIDI, or microphone mode, students gain instant feedback on their playing, build essential skills like sight-reading, rhythm, and ear-training, and stay motivated with real-time scoring and gamified learning. Teachers can assign exercises, monitor progress remotely, and access detailed analytics to tailor instruction more effectively.

The platform features the Standard Assessment of Sight Reading (SASR)—the world’s only standardized sight-reading test—and a robust Music Library of over 30,000 songs, from classical to contemporary hits. Its three unique modes—Practice, Play, and Learn—support every learning style, helping students progress confidently at their own pace.

Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced students, Piano Marvel provides a flexible, engaging, and time-saving solution for modern piano studios.

Piano Marvel: revolutionizing piano teaching, one student at a time. To learn more, visit pianomarvel.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.

TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

 

Repertoire can make or break a student’s motivation, and yet finding that just-right piece is one of the toughest parts of our job. In today’s episode, we’re having a chat with William Perry, the mastermind behind Piano Music Database, a powerful tool designed to help teachers discover ideal pieces using filters like rhythm, level, mood, and more. From public domain gems to modern compositions, this is a game-changer for anyone searching for truly personalized repertoire.

William shared a brief overview of his background as the creator of Piano Music Database.

How his own frustration with finding suitable repertoire led to creating the database.

Tim explained the importance of matching repertoire to student skill and motivation.

How the database helps teachers find “Goldilocks” pieces through specific search filters.

How Piano Music Database categorizes pieces by level, rhythm, concept, key, mood, and theme.

He emphasized the value of searching by musical concept rather than difficulty alone.

The seven-level system and how it provides broad guidance.

How the database supports teacher decision-making with curated recordings and purchasing links.

The importance of community contributions, including composer-submitted entries.

He encouraged teachers to use the database to explore lesser-known composers and repertoire.

The benefit of refining repertoire choices to improve retention and engagement.

Exclusive Discount for Podcast Listeners

Use the code TOPCAST25 to get 25% off your first year of a Piano Music Database Plus subscription (applicable on monthly and annual payments). Click here to subscribe and claim your discount.

Links Mentioned

William Perry's List of Favorite Pieces in Piano Music Database

Piano Music Database Website

Piano Music Database Facebook Page

Piano Music Database Facebook Group

Piano Music Database Instagram

Today's Guest

William Perry is a pianist, educator, keyboardist, organist, and the founder of Piano Music Database, an online platform that helps piano teachers find the best music for their students. He holds degrees in piano performance and pedagogy from Stetson University and Florida State University. As a soloist, William has performed across the U.S. and in Europe. He performs regularly as an electronic keyboardist for large-scale tribute shows, serves as the organist for Holy Trinity–St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, and is the collaborative pianist for the Young Professionals Choral Collective. He lives in Cincinnati, where he runs the Woodmont Piano Studio and teaches private piano lessons.

Today's Sponsor

Just a year ago, the German music publisher Bärenreiter celebrated its 100th anniversary. The story began modestly, with editions of folk songs and church music produced by the young founder, Karl Vötterle, in his parents’ living room. But the publishing house quickly expanded.

After the Second World War, Bärenreiter increasingly focused on scholarly-critical editions, growing into one of the world’s leading classical music publishers. While the company’s early Urtext publications centered on Mozart, Bach, and Schubert, its catalogue now includes over 10,000 titles, featuring works by composers such as Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Fauré, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Ravel, Satie, and many others.

Bärenreiter's Urtext editions are prepared by renowned musicologists, with no effort spared in locating and evaluating all available sources. But providing a reliable musical text is only part of the mission. Each edition also includes prefaces and commentaries that explore the genesis of the works and address questions of performance practice. This enables musicians to place each composition in its historical context and develop a deeper understanding of the composer’s intentions.

Find out more about Bärenreiter here.

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 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Too often, rote teaching is dismissed as basic or shallow. But in this episode with Laura Abshier, you’ll never see it the same way again. As one of our TopMusicSheets composers, Laura brings a fresh, imaginative approach to beginner teaching that's grounded in Music Learning Theory. We're going to explore her collection, learn how she uses movement, singing, and improvisation, and discover just how rich rote-based learning can be for young students.

Laura shared her experience designing creative, beginner-friendly rote pieces.

She explained how Music Learning Theory (MLT) shapes her composing and teaching.

The role of movement, singing, and aural prep before notation.

The importance of using simple rhythmic patterns in early pieces.

She explained the use of call-and-response formats and fist pieces for young learners.

Improvisation was highlighted as an essential, not optional part of the learning process.

Laura demonstrated multiple pieces and how to unpack and teach each one.

She encouraged teachers to reframe rote learning as deep, musical engagement.

How these pieces can spark student creativity and compositional thinking.

Freebie for Podcast Listeners

Download your Free Beginner Piece Variations - 30 ideas for your students to create variations of their pieces.

Links Mentioned

Laura's Website: Piano Artistry Studio

Laura's Music Cllections: PianoArtistryStudio.com/roots/

Laura's YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@RootsMusic88

Find out more about TopMusicSheets here.

Today's Guest

Laura Abshier enjoys the art of teaching and seeks to give engaging, systematic, and creative instruction to her piano students. She and her husband currently maintain a private piano studio, where her niche is teaching younger beginners. She has developed five rote collections over the past eight years. As a teacher of beginners, Laura recognized a need for engaging yet pedagogical pieces created specifically for young (and very young!) students. Laura earned her Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy at the University of Missouri, studying under Dr. Peter Miyamoto, and her Bachelor of Arts in Music at Millikin University, studying with Dr. Ronald YaDeau.

Today's Sponsor

Just a year ago, the German music publisher Bärenreiter celebrated its 100th anniversary. The story began modestly, with editions of folk songs and church music produced by the young founder, Karl Vötterle, in his parents’ living room. But the publishing house quickly expanded.

After the Second World War, Bärenreiter increasingly focused on scholarly-critical editions, growing into one of the world’s leading classical music publishers. While the company’s early Urtext publications centered on Mozart, Bach, and Schubert, its catalogue now includes over 10,000 titles, featuring works by composers such as Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Fauré, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Ravel, Satie, and many others.

Bärenreiter's Urtext editions are prepared by renowned musicologists, with no effort spared in locating and evaluating all available sources. But providing a reliable musical text is only part of the mission. Each edition also includes prefaces and commentaries that explore the genesis of the works and address questions of performance practice. This enables musicians to place each composition in its historical context and develop a deeper understanding of the composer’s intentions.

Find out more about Bärenreiter here.

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 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

What if your role as a music teacher didn’t start and end with the method book? In this chat with Dr. Merlin Thompson, we're exploring how the curriculum models we choose can shape our students’ lifelong connection to music. From teacher-led to student-driven approaches and everything in between, Merlin offers a fresh perspective on how to rethink curriculum planning, repertoire, and even our own identity as teachers in the 21st century.

Tim welcomed Dr. Merlin Thompson, a respected music educator and curriculum specialist.

Merlin outlined four curriculum models: teacher-led, student-led, shared, and neurodiverse.

He explained how shifting models supports lifelong musical engagement.

They discussed the need to reframe teacher identity in today’s evolving music landscape.

How students can take the lead in lessons while still receiving expert guidance.

The importance of reflective teaching and adapting to students’ goals.

How repertoire choices and improvisation can support different models.

Teachers were encouraged to ask what musical activities their students will pursue as adults.

Merlin highlighted project-based learning as a way to deepen student connections to music.

He invited teachers to build community and continually reflect on their teaching values.

Links Mentioned

Merlin's Website: Teach Music 21C

Merlin's Book: More than Music Lessons

Teach Music 21C Instagram: @teachmusic21c

Teach Music 21C LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/teachmusic21c

Today's Guest

Award-winning music educator, pianist, author, keynote speaker, and podcast host, Dr. Merlin B. Thompson is a leading Canadian authority on music studio teaching and the visionary behind Teach Music 21C - a thriving community of music teachers focused on 21st century teaching tools. With nearly five decades of studio teaching experience and an international impact - including Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, China, and Finland - Merlin has inspired hundreds of teachers, students, and parents. His passions? Empowering music teachers with strategies that work in today’s evolving teaching landscape. And helping students to develop lifelong musical connections right from their first music lesson.

Today's Sponsor

Just a year ago, the German music publisher Bärenreiter celebrated its 100th anniversary. The story began modestly, with editions of folk songs and church music produced by the young founder, Karl Vötterle, in his parents’ living room. But the publishing house quickly expanded.

After the Second World War, Bärenreiter increasingly focused on scholarly-critical editions, growing into one of the world’s leading classical music publishers. While the company’s early Urtext publications centered on Mozart, Bach, and Schubert, its catalogue now includes over 10,000 titles, featuring works by composers such as Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Fauré, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Ravel, Satie, and many others.

Bärenreiter's Urtext editions are prepared by renowned musicologists, with no effort spared in locating and evaluating all available sources. But providing a reliable musical text is only part of the mission. Each edition also includes prefaces and commentaries that explore the genesis of the works and address questions of performance practice. This enables musicians to place each composition in its historical context and develop a deeper understanding of the composer’s intentions.

Find out more about Bärenreiter here.

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 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

If you've ever wondered what exactly an Urtext edition is, or why it matters, you’re not alone. Today, I'm chatting with musicologist and editor Dr Mario Aschauer to explore what goes into creating these “original” scores and why they’re more complex and more fascinating than they first appear. From Beethoven’s messy handwriting to Mozart myths, this episode will open your eyes to how much history, detective work, and musical curiosity is wrapped into every note.

Dr. Mario Aschauer explained musicology as the study of all aspects of music.

He shared how his performance background led him into scholarly editing.

The value of figured bass and continuo in modern training was discussed.

Tim asked what makes an Urtext edition trustworthy or problematic.

Mario emphasized that Urtext is a starting point, not an absolute truth.

He explained why even beginners can benefit from using Urtext editions.

The conversation highlighted editorial interpretation and creative freedom.

Mario debunked common misconceptions about the ‘sacredness’ of Urtext.

He shared behind-the-scenes stories of editing Beethoven and Mozart scores.

How performance practice, research, and editing intertwine.

Teachers were encouraged to explore the stories and context behind the scores.

Links Mentioned

Dr Mario Aschauer's website: mario-aschauer.info

Dr Mario Aschauer's YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/marioaschauer

Harmonia Stellarum Houston

Today's Guest

Dr. Mario Aschauer is an Austrian-born musicologist, conductor, and harpsichordist renowned for his work at the intersection of music scholarship and performance. He currently serves as Associate Professor of Musicology at Sam Houston State University, where he also directs the Center for Early Music Research and Performance.

In addition to performing internationally as a specialist in historical keyboards and Austrian Baroque repertoire, Aschauer is a prolific editor of Urtext editions for publishers like Bärenreiter, including works by Beethoven, Mozart, and Schubert.

He is the founder and artistic director of Harmonia Stellarum Houston and author of the influential book German Keyboard Treatises in the Second Half of the Eighteenth Century. Holding degrees from the University of Vienna and the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, he has also held research roles at the Austrian Academy of Sciences and Yale School of Music, with ongoing interests in performance practice, editorial process, and the compositional sketches of Anton Bruckner.

Today's Sponsor

Just a year ago, the German music publisher Bärenreiter celebrated its 100th anniversary. The story began modestly, with editions of folk songs and church music produced by the young founder, Karl Vötterle, in his parents’ living room. But the publishing house quickly expanded.

After the Second World War, Bärenreiter increasingly focused on scholarly-critical editions, growing into one of the world’s leading classical music publishers. While the company’s early Urtext publications centered on Mozart, Bach, and Schubert, its catalogue now includes over 10,000 titles, featuring works by composers such as Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Fauré, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Ravel, Satie, and many others.

Bärenreiter's Urtext editions are prepared by renowned musicologists, with no effort spared in locating and evaluating all available sources. But providing a reliable musical text is only part of the mission. Each edition also includes prefaces and commentaries that explore the genesis of the works and address questions of performance practice. This enables musicians to place each composition in its historical context and develop a deeper understanding of the composer’s intentions.

Find out more about Bärenreiter here.

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 14-Day Free Trial

Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL