Category Archives: Articles

Keeping Track of Lessons

Posted on May 11, 2016 by Marie

Keeping a dedicated notebook up to date is crucial when learning from more than one book or if there are numerous students in one household. If one student is learning from technical, practical, and theory books simultaneously, homework and practice … Continue reading →

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Inclement Weather

Posted on August 20, 2015 by Marie

We are a third of the way into hurricane season here in the southeastern United States. Regular summer storms cause anxiety and discomfort. A little bit of rain never hurt anyone, but lightning storms make it difficult to trek to … Continue reading →

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Montessori Piano Lessons

Posted on November 12, 2014 by Marie

Q: My daughter goes to a Montessori preschool where she takes individual piano lessons once a week. I come from a place where children are taught to read music at an early age, so I am surprised to hear from … Continue reading →

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At What Age Should My Child Start Piano Lessons?

Posted on October 17, 2014 by Marie

Q: ” What age is good to start taking piano? ” A: Most children are ready to begin lessons when they reach first grade. However, if you would like for your child to learn to play by ear, start him … Continue reading →

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Piano Recitals in Miami

Posted on September 15, 2014 by Marie

It’s the beginning of the school year and time to start thinking about recitals. Recitals? Yes! Christmas is right around the corner in the world of performing arts, and preparations are being made. Ask your child to start thinking about … Continue reading →

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Summertime Piano Lessons

Posted on July 15, 2014 by Marie

If your child continues piano lessons during the summer, then he will be better prepared than his counterparts when the school year comes around. For every lesson missed, your child experiences not just a pause in progress but regression. He forgets how … Continue reading →

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Forgetting Piano Lessons

Posted on December 15, 2013 by Marie

Q: I tell my son to practice piano, but he says that he doesn’t know what to do. I feel like I’m wasting my money because he’s playing piano only during his lessons. Why does the teacher assign him work that he doesn’t … Continue reading →

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Substitute Music Teachers

Posted on October 1, 2013 by Marie

Recently, on a social media platfrom, we had a discussion about subtitute teaching. Most students (and parents) equate “having a sub” as having the day off. While this may be propable in modern classroom settings, private music students do not … Continue reading →

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Rhythm, Melody, or Technique?

Posted on September 24, 2013 by Marie

Are you supposed to learn rhythm first? Or the melody? Or are you supposed to use correct fingers and keep good posture? What is the priority? In twelve years of teaching, I have had students approach a new piece of … Continue reading →

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Piano Posture, Elbows and Shoulders

Posted on September 17, 2013 by Marie

Q: What is correct piano posture in regards to wrists and elbows? I understand that the wrists should be straight, but it is difficult for our young child to keep her wrists straight without touching the edge of the piano. … Continue reading →

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