Take time to educate yourself. Here are just a few books that have changed my life – and my teaching. I love the book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck. It is a wonderful resource for teachers of any subject. According to Dweck, individuals can be placed on a Continue Reading
Diane’s Picks
Books for Better Teaching
Piano Books for Older Beginners
Have you ever had a beginning student that was too old for Method Books, but wasn’t ready to jump into repertoire books? Have you ever had a student who already played another instrument and needed to move through the piano basics fairly quickly? Have you ever wished you had a Continue Reading
Modern Sonatinas
Most of you are probably familiar with the Sonatinas of Clementi and Kuhlau, but there are also fantastic modern Sonatinas you might not know about. These charming pieces can add life to your student’s repertoire. If these are new to you, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few Continue Reading
Christmas Music You’ll Love to Teach
When I was a little girl our family hosted an annual neighborhood Christmas caroling party. My father, a Lutheran pastor, would pull out his trumpet and lead us as we went from door to door singing for anyone who would listen. My piano teacher, who was Jewish, always received special Continue Reading
Student Evaluation Tool Picks
Incentive Chart Picks
Incentive charts give students a sense of accomplishment. Read this for more information about exactly how to use them in a lesson. Here’s a post about how to successfully use Mini Incentive Charts.
Pen and Pencil Picks
Tape Picks
Washi Tape is a wonderful teaching tool. Students of all ages enjoy using it. When things get tough during a lesson, I often pull it out to help refocus a student. “Should we put some tape on this passage?” It also gives a little break from working hard and provides a Continue Reading
Sticker and Post-Its Picks
The key to being a great piano teacher is office supplies. Maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but having tricks up your sleeve and brightly colored props does help. Post-Its are the first office supply I fell in love with. Here’s a post about using post-its to teach. And another. Everyone teaches Continue Reading