Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by our guest, Abigail Proffitt, who specializes in preschool and neurodivergent students and teaches classical piano through a playful and repertoire-rich approach. In this episode, we'll dive deep into various preschool piano methods, featuring a detailed discussion on books like Piano Adventures, WunderKeys, Celebrate Piano, and many more. Abigail shares her invaluable insights, practical tips, and expert advice on creating an engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experience for young piano students. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting, this episode is packed with resources and inspiration to enhance your teaching journey.

Abigail shared her journey to becoming a piano teacher and her passion for teaching.

Her online business for music teachers, offering music theory resources and workshops.

Her experiences teaching preschoolers, both in groups and private lessons.

Emphasis on playful, sound-based learning, using games and improvisation.

Advice for and tips for teachers to better understand and teach preschoolers.

The importance of a strong rhythmic foundation for better sight-reading skills.

Discussion on specific curriculums such as Piano Adventures, WunderKeys, Celebrate Piano, Music for Little Mozarts, Music Play Curriculum, Piano Safari, etc.

Importance of a combination of different methods over relying on one.

Abigail shared some practical tips and encourages not focusing too heavily on hand shape for very young children.

She shared details about her Preschool Piano Crash Course.

Method Books Mentioned

The Whole-Brain Child Book by Daniel Siegel and Tina Bryson

The Power of Play Book by David Elkind

How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen Book by by Joanna Faber

Faber Piano Adventures

WunderKeys

Celebrate Piano!

Music for Little Mozarts

Music Play

Theory Made Fun by Kevin Olson

Piano Safari

Piano Safari Friends

Guest Links Mentioned

Whole Foundation Method Etsy Shop

Proffitt Piano Studio Instagram Page

Proffitt Piano Studio Facebook Page

TopCast 349: Selling Your Teaching Resources on Etsy with Abigail Proffitt

Today’s Guest

Abigail Proffitt is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music with a BMus in Piano Pedagogy. Her studio is based in North Texas, where she specializes in preschool and neurodivergent students. Abigail teaches classical piano using a play-based, repertoire-rich approach and she loves equipping other teachers to do the same!

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 https://rachelehring.com/

Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring

Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

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 Fridays weekly.

Music has the power to shape young minds and create lifelong connections. In this engaging episode, we're chatting with Krista Jadro and Hannah Mayo to dive into the transformative world of audiation and early childhood piano education. They discuss their unique journeys towards implementing Edwin Gordon’s Music Learning Theory, the impact of starting music education as early as age four, and practical tips on integrating singing, movement, and improvisation into piano lessons. Tune in to learn how they foster a deep understanding and love for music in their students from the very beginning.

Krista and Hannah shared a brief overview of their background and their music studio.

Importance of starting music education early, targeting ages 4-6.

Benefits of music education for neural development and building foundational musical skills.

Explanation of audiation and its role in music learning theory.

Details on the Music Moves for Piano curriculum by Marilyn Lowe.

Comparison between music learning and language acquisition.

Personal stories on how they both became interested in audiation and music learning theory.

Challenges and milestones in their professional development.

Impact of early music education on young learners.

Preferred techniques for teaching preschoolers, including the center finger approach.

Addressing common concerns such as singing and movement in lessons.

Integrating audiation into piano lessons in manageable ways.

Timing of introducing formal music reading, typically around age 11.

Balancing playing capability with reading skills.

Links Mentioned

Music Learning Academy Website

Music Learning Academy YouTube Page

Mayo Piano Website

Music Moves for Piano Website

Introduction to Audiation-Based Piano Instruction and Music Moves for Piano Facebook Group

Keys to Music Learning Podcast

The Ways Children Learn Music Book

Today’s Guest

Hannah E. Mayo, a nationally certified teacher of music, is an independent piano teacher, specializing in guiding students through a lifetime of music making at the piano. She holds a B.M. and M.M. from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. After graduating, she continued to teach class piano as an adjunct faculty member at ULL until 2023. Hannah has been an independent piano teacher since 2006 and has directed the early childhood music and piano program at the REACH Preschool Institute since 2012. Hannah is a dedicated practitioner of Edwin Gordon’s Music Learning Theory.

Krista Jadro is the owner of Music Learning Academy, an online resource center dedicated to supporting teachers using the Music Moves for Piano curriculum by Marilyn Lowe for audiation-based piano instruction. Through Music Learning Academy, Krista provides online courses, leads study groups, and presents and hosts webinars and workshops. Krista has a thriving piano studio at Brookline Music School, where she previously redesigned and directed the early childhood and group piano program. She earned degrees in Music Education from the University of Delaware (M.M, B.M.) Both Krista and Hannah are on the piano faculty with the Gordon Institute for Music Learning. And they co-host the Keys to Music Learning Podcast.

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 https://rachelehring.com/

Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring

Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

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 Fridays weekly.

In this episode, we sit down with Amy Elmore, a seasoned piano teacher who has transformed her studio with over 30 years of experience into a thriving multi-teacher business. Amy shares the inspiring journey behind starting preschool piano classes, an idea sparked by her husband, and how these classes have significantly impacted her studio's growth. Join us as Amy delves into the ART framework she developed for teaching young children, offers practical advice on managing classes, and emphasizes the importance of community among piano teachers. Whether you're looking to enhance your teaching strategies or expand your studio's offerings, Amy's insights are invaluable. Tune in to discover how preschool piano can elevate your business!

Amy shared a brief overview of her background and her teaching business.

She talks about her multi-teacher studio and the range of lessons they offer.

She shared how preschool piano classes started in her studio.

Rachel shares her inspiration from Amy to start piano classes for preschoolers.

The benefits and impact of preschool piano on students and business.

Amy introduces the ART framework for teaching preschool piano (Aural, Rhythm, Theory, and Technique).

Discussion on practical aspects such as class size, equipment needed, and duration of classes.

Amy answers rapid-fire questions on space requirements, materials, class size, pricing, and more.

Tips on managing behavioral challenges in preschool piano classes.

The importance of ignoring, redirecting, and keeping the class moving.

The value of building a network of teacher friends.

Information about Amy’s Piano Teacher Happy Hour, Preschool Group Piano Blueprint course, and coaching sessions.

Links Mentioned

Amy Elmore's Website

Preschool Group Piano Blueprint

Amy's Instagram Page: @amy_elmore_piano

Keys to Praise Studio Instagram Page: @keys_to_praise_studio

Download your latest TopMusic Magazine here.

Today’s Guest

Amy Elmore is a seasoned piano teacher with over 30 years of experience. She owns a lively multi-teacher studio in Southern California that welcomes students as young as 3 1/2 to those about to graduate high school. Amy didn't originally set out to be a piano teacher; she “fell into” the profession in high school when her teacher asked if she would take on some students of her own. In a full-circle moment, after teaching solo for many years, Amy hired one of her high school students and started down the path of becoming a multi-teacher studio.

Over the last several years, Amy has developed a keen interest in the business aspects of running a studio. Her academic background is as unique as her career path, holding a Bachelor's Degree in Home Economics/Foods in Business and a Master's Degree in Marriage Family Therapy. This unexpected combination enriches her approach to teaching and business, bringing a fresh and multifaceted perspective to the world of music Education. Recognizing the potential to expand her impact beyond the studio, through coaching and her Preschool Group Piano Blueprint course, Amy has also ventured into helping other piano teachers scale their businesses.

Beyond her professional life, Amy and her husband Jim have two adult sons and a brand-new daughter-in-law. She loves the creative outlet of interior decor as well as discovering new coffee spots with friends - and bonus if they want to talk about business ideas!

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 https://rachelehring.com/

Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring

Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

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 Fridays weekly.

Music is more than just sound — it’s the foundation of how our brains connect, grow, and thrive. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jane Bader, DMA, whose remarkable journey from marine biology and medical labs to award-winning composer and educator has led her to uncover the transformative power of music in early childhood development. Drawing from her book, Music for the Developing Brain, Dr. Bader shares how music shapes young minds, strengthens cognitive abilities, and lays a foundation that lasts a lifetime. Join us as we explore the science behind music’s profound impact on early brain development, how to actively engage children in music, and why these skills create a foundation that benefits individuals throughout their entire lives. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or music enthusiast, this conversation will leave you inspired to make music an integral part of life’s earliest moments.

• Dr. Bader shared her unique career background, starting with 10 years of piano study, a computer programming job, and two diverse careers - medical laboratory science and music education.
• How she transitioned to music education after becoming a parent for more flexibility.
• Her research in sequencing elementary piano music, which emphasized teaching sound before sight, which aligns with her observations and research.
• Her research interest in neuroscience and music education.
• Key discoveries about music and brain development.
• Importance of teaching sound before sight, comparing it to how children learn spoken language before reading.
• Discussion about her book, Music for the Developing Brain.
• Rachels share about her experience with college students without inner pulse.
• Importance of establishing an early foundation in music during preschool or toddler years.
• Why it's important to adjust our expectations for young learners.
• Scientific insights on music’s role in development.
• Active vs. passive music listening.
• Recommendations and practical applications for older beginners.

Links Mentioned

• Dr. Jane Bader's Website
• Dr. Jane Bader's LinkedIn Page
• Dr. Jane Bader's Book: Music for the Developing Brain: A Simple, At-Home Program
• Dr. Jane Bader's Email: [email protected]

Special Offer for Podcast Listeners

• Dr. Jane Bader is giving away a free copy of her e-book. Listeners can send her a direct email for the free e-book at [email protected].

Today’s Guest

Dr. Jane J. Bader, DMA, didn’t set out to be a music teacher. In her first career, she performed research in marine biology, conducted routine testing in a blood bank in Alaska, and orchestrated the ins and outs of a medical laboratory thanks to a Bachelor of Science in cell biology and a certificate in medical technology. After becoming an award-winning composer, she earned a Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts in piano pedagogy and started teaching at a local university. She wrote Music for the Developing Brain to help parents everywhere share music with their children from the very beginning.

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.

Practice is the bridge between goals and accomplishments. In this episode, we're having a chat with Leslie Thackeray, a dedicated Suzuki violin teacher and the creative force behind The Practice Shoppe. Leslie shares her journey from receiving her first violin at age four to becoming a pioneering music educator known for her innovative teaching methods. They dive into practical tips for making practice fun and enjoyable, insights on parental involvement, and the story behind Leslie's unique products designed to aid music practice. Tune in to discover how Leslie combines her love for violin, teaching, and creativity to inspire young musicians.

• Leslie describes how she started The Practice Shoppe.
• She talks about managing a business with physical products from home.
• How she uses different methods incorporates fun games to motivate practice.
• Tools and tips for effective practice.
• Importance of parental support in organizing and encouraging practice.
• Strategies for parents who aren’t musicians to still effectively guide their children.
• Leslie shares how interactive and visual learning aids are used to reinforce musical concepts and improve practice habits.
• She encourages listeners to share ideas for new products they would like to see.

Links Mentioned

• The Practice Shoppe Website
• The Practice Shoppe Instagram Page
• The Practice Shoppe Facebook Page
• TopCast 391: Meet Brian Shepard, New CEO of MTNA

Today’s Guest

At the age of four, Leslie Thackeray's musical journey began when she received her first violin as a birthday gift. She pursued her passion for music and obtained a BA in Music from the University of Utah. In 2000, she started her teaching career, combining her love for the violin with her enthusiasm for education. Leslie has been an active member of the Suzuki community and is a past president of the Suzuki Association of Utah. In addition, she owns The Practice Shoppe, which allows her to connect her love of music with her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Leslie's life is a harmonious blend of family, music, and education.

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.

Playing the piano is not just about hitting the right keys, it's about sharing the joy of music and inspiring others. Jenny Boster, owner of The Playful Piano and a dedicated piano teacher with over 25 years of experience, exemplifies this philosophy. In this episode, we explore Jenny's journey, from teaching over 25 students in her home studio to creating innovative resources like music history coloring books and comprehensive technique programs for young pianists. We’ll learn how she seamlessly integrates creative teaching methods into her lessons, making music history come alive. Balancing her professional life with being a mother of five, Jenny’s enthusiasm for music and commitment to her students are truly inspiring. Tune in to discover how she brings the joy of music to life for her students and beyond.

• Jenny shared a brief overview of background as a piano teacher.
• How she balances teaching with parenting.
• She share details about the creation of her website "The Playful Piano.”
• Importance of introducing students to classical music early.
• Various techniques for teaching music history in a fun and engaging manner.
• Jenny highlights the use of music and movement in teaching.
• Techniques for effective practice and memorization.
• Fun, engaging ways to reinforce learning and technique outside traditional method books.
• Importance of engaging young students with creative teaching methods.
• How to incorporate creative activities without straying too far from essential lessons.
• Strategies to ensure students have a balanced learning experience.
• Jenny shares her passion for highlighting female composers in her teachings.
• The importance of community and sharing resources with other educators.

Links Mentioned

• The Playful Piano Website
• Female Composer Club Website
• The Playful Piano Facebook Page
• The Playful Piano Instagram Page

Today’s Guest

Jenny Boster has loved teaching piano lessons for over 25 years. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance from Brigham Young University, studying with Dr. Scott Holden. She is a nationally-certified teacher of music and currently serves as president of her local MTNA chapter. She teaches over 25 students in her piano studio each week, and she is passionate about piano pedagogy and about sharing the joy of music with her students. She is a frequent presenter and exhibitor at music teacher conferences, and she is the author of many books and resources about music history and piano teaching. Her website, The Playful Piano, features unique and engaging piano teaching resources, including a music history coloring book curriculum, a comprehensive technique program for young pianists and much more. She has studied and published about female composers for many years, and for the past four years has curated an annual “Female Composers Challenge” for Women’s History Month to help spread awareness of these composers. Jenny lives in Farr West, Utah with her husband and five children.

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.

The profound influence of a passionate educator can ripple through generations, touching lives far beyond what they might ever envision. In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Liz Boyd, who now runs Susan Paradis Piano Teaching Resources, an online hub beloved by piano teachers globally. Liz shares her journey from a career in digital arts and academia to carrying forward her mother's mission after Susan's passing. We explore the rich legacy of Susan Paradis, whose innovative and colorful teaching materials have engaged young piano students for years. Liz also talks about the challenges and joys of taking over the family business, her creative process, and how she balances her role as a mom and entrepreneur. Join us as we celebrate the enduring impact of Susan Paradis's work and Liz's exciting plans for the future.

• Liz shared her brief background and her work with Susan Parody Piano Teaching Resources.
• Overview of the blog and online store for piano teaching materials.
• The legacy of Susan Paradis and her contributions to piano teaching.
• She shared her transition to managing the website and how she prepared to take over the business from Susan.
• Some of her challenges and plans for the future.
• Liz explains the process of developing new games and educational materials.
• Advice on organizing teaching materials and resources to easily find and use them.
• Strategies for maintaining an effective system of educational resources.
• Upcoming winter-themed fun sheets and seasonal games.
• Liz's excitement for future projects, including potential physical products.

Guest Links Mentioned

• Susan Paradis Website
• Susan Paradis Piano Teaching Resources Facebook Page
• Susan Paradis Instagram Page
• Susan Paradis YouTube Page

Links Mentioned

• Download your latest issue of TopMusic Magazine here.
• TopCast 389: Burnout, Cancer and a Learning Legacy with Dr Edward Gifford

Today’s Guest

Liz Boyd runs Susan Paradis Piano Teaching Resources (www.SusanParadis.com), an online blog and shop serving piano teachers around the world. She inherited this legacy from her mother, Susan Paradis, and creates whimsical, colorful teaching materials that make piano engaging for children. Music and art shaped Liz's early life through her mother's guidance. Susan encouraged Liz to follow her passions and pursue a career in visual arts. After earning her MFA in Arts and Technology, Liz worked as a 3D modeling artist in the animation film and video game industry before spending 15 years as a professor at The University of Texas in Dallas.

Following Susan's passing, Liz took over her mother's website. Through Susan Paradis Piano Teaching Resources, Liz unites her three passions: music, art, and education. One of the many joys of this new career path has been meeting her mother’s fans and followers, some of whom have been coming to the website since it started in 2006. Additionally, Liz is a wife and a mother of two young boys. They live in north Texas with their sweet, old, shaggy dog named Scruffy. Here’s my interview with Liz.

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.

Innovation thrives when creativity meets passion, and today's guest, Megan Schraer, embodies this perfectly. As the new owner of Dynamic Doodle Co., Megan has embraced the challenge of continuing the company’s legacy of providing music educators with engaging and interactive learning materials. In this episode, she shares the exciting, sometimes steep, journey of taking over the business, navigating everything from processing orders to expanding her vision for the company’s growth. Megan also reveals how she integrates Dynamic Doodle Co. resources into her own teaching practice, all while balancing her roles as a piano teacher and mother of two. She speaks to the power of her support system and gives a glimpse into the company’s future, including the introduction of boom cards and music bucks. Listen in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of music education.

• Megan shared a brief overview of her background and her music teaching studio.
• How she started using Dynamic Doodle Co. products, leading to her taking over the business.
• How she uses Composer Chronicles in her studio, including monthly composer spotlights and integrating them into lessons and group activities.
• Discussion about using Rhythm Builders and Staff Puzzlers to teach note durations and music notation to students, enhancing visual and hands-on learning.
• Megan shared about the new skills she has acquired, such as processing orders, packaging products, and learning production techniques.
• How she balances teaching, business responsibilities, and family life.
• Some popular Dynamic Doodle Co. resources like Rhythm Builders, Staff Puzzlers, and Composer Chronicles, and how she uses them creatively in her own studio.
• Some discusses some future plans and new products like boom cards and music bucks.

Links Mentioned

• Megan Schraer's Website
• Dynamic Doodle Co. Website
• Dynamic Doodle Co. Facebook Page
• Dynamic Doodle Co. Instagram Page
• Dynamic Doodle Co. Etsy Shop

Today’s Guest

Megan Schraer enthusiastically strives to instill a passion for music in her students. Attempting to understand her student's learning style is a very important step to building a relationship with her students. Thereafter, she incorporates a variety of teaching approaches to appeal to each growing musician. Educating her students beyond just the pages of sheet music, Megan demonstrates the interworking of the piano and its mechanics to the student so they better understand how the instrument actually functions while they play. The students will also study famous composers, establish proper technique and artistry, learn music theory, and gain confidence in performing for others. With every lesson, she treasures the privilege of enriching the student's life and she deeply cares about each and every single one of them as individuals.

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.

The power of creativity can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, and today’s guest exemplifies that truth in her approach to piano teaching and recitals. In this episode, we are joined by the distinguished piano and pedagogy professor, Dr. Olivia Ellis, from Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Olivia is renowned for her innovative teaching methods and as an editor for Piano Magazine and the author of the Easy Piano Lead Sheets and Chord Charts series. She shares how her upbringing, with a crafty mother and inspiring teachers, shaped her passion for creativity in music education.  Tune in to learn how her creative recitals and teaching strategies can elevate your students' performances and create unforgettable musical experiences.

• Olivia shared a brief overview of her background and her roles in the piano teaching community.
• She shares her passion for creative teaching inspired by her mother and past teachers.
• Her preferred piano resources, favorite books and tools.
• Overview of Olivia's unique themed recitals.
• Importance of using creative ideas in teaching both young children and college students.
• How Olivia involves students in the planning and execution of creative recitals.
• Advice and tips for teachers feeling overwhelmed or on a budget.
• Olivia shares exciting future projects, including concerts and student recitals.
• Importance of integrating lead sheets in lessons for practical skills.
• Tips on how to start and progress with teaching lead sheets to students.

Links Mentioned

• Olivia Ellis Website - Creative Piano Teacher
• Creative Piano Teacher Instagram Page
• Creative Piano Teacher Facebook Page
• Download your latest TopMusic Magazine here

Today’s Guest

Dr. Olivia Ellis teaches piano, group piano, pedagogy, and chamber music at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. She's an editor for Piano Magazine and has published several books including the Easy Piano Lead Sheets and Chord Charts series. She's constantly creating new activities and games to teach concepts, and loves helping other teachers find their niche.

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.

 

Confidence on stage is built long before the performance begins. In this episode, we're diving deep into the strategies and tools that will help your students perform with confidence. Whether you're a piano teacher guiding your students or a musician getting ready for your own performance, preparation is key to managing nerves and feeling at ease on stage. We'll explore everything from building a preparation timeline to effective rehearsal techniques, the power of affirmations, and even some personal stories and tips to help both you and your students shine when it matters most. Join me as we explore how to make performance day a success!

• Why preparation is key to calming nerves, but why it’s normal to still feel anxious.
• The value of creating a detailed preparation timeline to guide your practice
• How to avoid common mistakes, like scheduling dress rehearsals too late or not practicing in the performance space.
• Importance of practicing in front of others, whether it’s friends, family, or even stuffed animals.
• How technology and video recordings can provide additional practice opportunities.
• Fun ways to help younger students practice bowing and stage presence to reduce anxiety.
• How practicing on the performance stage ahead of time can improve confidence on recital day.
• The power of affirmations to help both students and teachers replace negative self-talk with positive, empowering thoughts.
• Tips on handling students’ post-performance disappointment with encouragement and positive reframing.
• Simple breathing techniques to help calm nerves before and during a performance.
• How to prepare mentally and physically on the actual day of a performance.
• Why it’s important to take care of all logistical details well in advance.
• Personal rituals, like lucky socks or mints, that help performers feel grounded and confident.
• Advice on responding when a student feels disappointed after their performance.

Links Mentioned

• Affirmations for Student Musicians YouTube video
• Affirmations for Performing Musicians YouTube video
• TMPP Episode 037: Helping Teens Work through Performance Anxiety with Sonia Poon
• TMPP Episode 036: Never Stop Innovating with Will Armstrong
• TMPP Episode 028: Music and Magic Journals with Tweena Vuong

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 https://rachelehring.com/
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music
• Subscribe to her YouTube Channel here.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank 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 Fridays weekly.