Category Archives: Articles

Keys and Tips for Sight Reading

The more sight reading you do the better you become at it. The struggle is part of the process. Don’t worry if you sound terrible. Remember that expression, dynamics, and timing are more important than getting all the notes right. Begin sight reading with … Continue reading

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Why Sight Reading is Important

There is some debate between supporters of sight reading and supporters of learning by ear.  I support sight reading because, just like learning to read English, it allows for students to analyze and understand what they are playing. Reading music … Continue reading

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Video Piano Tutorials

Q: I’ve searched YouTube tutorials to learn piano songs, but I can’t find the ones that I want. Most of the time, they are too hard or don’t exist at all. When I do find a rare one that is good, I … Continue reading

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Wrist and Finger Posture

Almost all music teachers will agree that proper finger posture is required to play a musical instrument. If your music teacher does not agree, find a new one immediately! Improper posture will let you develop bad habits, causing you to … Continue reading

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Group Versus Individual Lessons

I’ve had many parents ask me, “What are better, group piano lessons or individual, private lessons?” You really have to weigh the pros and cons on this one. What is better for one student may not be better for the … Continue reading

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Help! I Get So Nervous Before Recitals!

Whether it be a fancy recital at the county auditorium or playing the keyboard for my fourth grade class, I was always nervous before a public performance, butterflies in my tummy, shaking hands, thoughts of, What if I completely forget … Continue reading

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Three Tips on Practicing With a Metronome

Most musicians will testify that practicing with a metronome helps their understanding of a piece of music. Whether you are a first year music student or a professional on world tour, you will encounter the need for a metronome in your … Continue reading

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Quitting Music Lessons

Q: My son says that he wants to quit piano. He has been taking music for a few years, but he claims to have trouble reading music and learning his assignments. I think that he has a lot of potential … Continue reading

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How to Help With Rhythm

Q: When my daughter practices a popular or folk song, she plays the notes right, but her rhythm is wrong. How can I help her between lessons? A: Sing the melody that she is practicing. Do so while clapping your … Continue reading

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Poaching Students

Here is the scenario: Johnny began taking piano lessons at a private school. His teacher was moving and mentioned it in passing to Johnny’s mother. They were happy to learn that the teacher was moving closer to Johnny’s house. “Can we … Continue reading

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