FAQ for Adult Piano Students
In today’s post I’ll answer some of the Frequently Asked Questions of prospective adult piano students: Can an adult with zero music experience learn the piano? Of course! I’ve successfully …
View ArticleBecoming a Self-Learning Pianist
Unlike K-12 school students, piano students usually spend just one hour per week with their teacher. The time between lessons is spent practicing what has been discussed in the lesson.…
View ArticleFavorite Blues Licks (Part 1)
A blues lick is a stock phrase or pattern, usually catchy and often using conventional blues ornamentation such as tremolos, that is used to heighten interest, increase tension, or communicate …
View ArticleBreathing, Listening, Moving – Three Essential Elements of Good Technique
Three essential elements of good piano technique that are sometimes neglected by both teachers and students are breathing, listening, and (surprisingly) moving. Breathing Like any athletic exercise, a...
View ArticleThe Importance of Unity and Contrast in Music Composition
An essential element of nearly all good music is a balance between unity and contrast. This is one of the most important principles for novice composers to understand. While …
View ArticleGames for Faber Piano Adventures Primer Level
When I use the Faber Piano Adventures books with a student, I like to take a timeout during lessons from focusing on the books to play a game. Here are …
View ArticleA New Adult Piano Method
If you’re a piano teacher who teaches adults, and are always on the lookout for new and innovative adult methods, read on! I’ve occasionally mentioned in this blog that I’ve …
View ArticleFoundations of Improvisation – Space and Silence
It’s been awhile since I’ve written about the essential principles of improvisation. In previous posts I’ve covered the principles of staying present, not-knowing and unity and contrast. Another …
View ArticleThe Chord Play Series (Review)
The world of music education lost a shining star in 2019 when pianist, educator and author Forrest Kinney passed away after a brief battle with an aggressive form of cancer.… The post The Chord Play...
View ArticleThe Piano Masterpieces of P.D.Q. Bach
… The post The Piano Masterpieces of P.D.Q. Bach first appeared on Portland Piano Lab.
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