piano teacher primer : Recent Episodes
Angela Toone
The only podcast for piano teachers just starting out! Each week Angela Toone, nationally certified piano teacher, will bring you actionable, accessible, fun ways to teach concepts with your very own students. Pro tips from the very best advice. How to teach piano lessons from the very beginning, and change the world one student at a time!
That’s right A to G and all the keys in-between!
What's harder sharps or flats?
What keys are the hardest for you the teacher to play in?
Which ones are hardest for your students?
Let's vote on Instagram or spotify poll!
We’ll dive into teaching sharps and flats initially, accidentals, and moving into key signature strategies for success!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
dozen a day at ease in many keys
Puck by Grieg Op. 71 No. 3
books by Robert Pace
Before you forget: click on this link if you might be interested in a 4-week Zoom Group for personalized help getting your studio started, or specific questions I can help you with hands-on! I'll send a zoom link for an info call on Thursday, September 5th. I am only taking 6 people, so keep that in mind.
Piano Teacher Primer LIVE
angelatoone.com/
As we wrap up the last of the summer encore episodes, I HAD to include this one because rhythm is the essential life blood of all music, and is often not taught effectively.
I explore 3 ways of counting rhythm -all of which I use with different students and in different situations
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traditional "one-and-two-and..."
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"TA and titi"
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fruit names!
Don't worry it's all explained, and I'd love to hear how you help YOUR students with rhythm! Find me on Instagram @angelatoone_
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I go into a lot more detail with how-tos, games, and visuals in the Piano Teacher Primer online course
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OR for more specific help, or if you are already currently teaching, I will be hosting another Piano Teacher Primer LIVE Zoom group starting September 12th! Spots are already being spoken for, so fill out this quick no-obligation form if you are at all interested. link
angelatoone.com
This episode got a re-record and an upgrade to explain how I help piano students fix notes in a positive way, and in a way that positively fixes that note more permanently in these common scenarios:
1.They realize It’s not right and fix it themselves immediately
2.They can hear something is wrong, but they can’t tell which note exactly
3.They know where the right note is, they just accidentally played a different one
4.They don’t realize the note is wrong. Either their ear says it sounds fine, or they mis-memorized…or both. They think it’s right, but it’s not.
That last one is the hardest to fix I think, but I’ll tell you exactly what I do in the lesson, and by extension how to practice at home more effectively.
How would you handle these situations?
Speaking of note-reading, also check out episode 75 [encore] about landmarks and intervals
Thought about teaching piano but don’t know where to start?
Start with my tutorial “how I teach a first piano lesson” it’s totally free click here
Coming right up, another Piano Teacher Primer LIVE 4-week Zoom group to start or upgrade your own piano studio with specific, live help from me. No pressure click here for the interest list and more information.
angelatoone.com
I think this episode deserves a place in the top ten, so I am showcasing it as an encore episode. I describe the best way I have found to teach note-reading to piano students, and best of all, it works with whichever piano teaching method you use, propelling students forward in these 3 ways:
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Remembering which clef is which,
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Learning all their notes quicker allowing them to learn more and more music (and have more fun of course!)
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Helping them become better sightreaders overall, useful wherever music takes them in their life!
Free download of my visual for teaching Treble Clef and Bass Clef click here or DM me on instagram @angelatoone_
Interval rhyme sayings and games and more inside the piano teacher primer online course a self-guided, walk-through, just-the-basics, no-overwhelm online course of videos and printables to get your own studio off the ground.
If you are currently teaching, or would like some more personalized help starting your piano teaching studio, fill out the interest list for the next piano teacher primer LIVE it's a small group of 6 people, 4 weekly classes on Zoom, it expands and updates the concepts in the online course, and you can get specific questions answered... LIVE!
angelatoone.com/
I get questions from piano teachers:
"Thanks for your first lesson video, I love it...what do I do next?"
This episode answers that question!
How to recognize the white note letter names without having to start at A all the time (takes forever!)
Plus I play games with little erasers to remind students which white notes are which!
I learned many of these ideas from my piano teacher in High School, she mentored me to get started teaching.
For a visual see my instagram page @angelatoone_
While you're there, check out the highlight bubble "how to teach"
Click here for more information on the piano teacher primer LIVE 4-week group starting up again in September
angelatoone.com
This summer, I am re-releasing some of my favorites - and yours! This episode has the most listens, and a great response among new teachers and elites as well... and there's a good reason why!
To watch a video demonstration of this podcast, click this link- first lesson
It's hosted on a site with online courses, but it's totally free and includes a download of the pieces I teach a new beginning piano student. It's golden I tell you!
Head to angelatoone.com and click on the banner at the top to submit your interest for the next piano teacher primer LIVE 4-week group on zoom beginning September 2024
In this episode I tackle tech! Sharing the very few technologies I have braved figuring out to help make life easier as a piano teacher, and bring in some educational fun! I also enlisted the help of my friend Wendy Brewster, a fabulous piano teacher with a knack for apps. I share some of her favorites as well. Enjoy and happy teaching AND happy tech-ing!
canva.com
note rush
getasitegoing.com use code Angela365
MyMusicStaff use this link for a free month!
flash note derby
ningenius
musictheory.net
rhythm swing
musescore.org
pianomarvel
piano maestro
earpeggio
kahoot.it
This sweet, warm, kind, musical, dedicated, creative Grandma-lady was my piano teacher through all my elementary years. She's been teaching since 1962, and has 16 studeents to this day!
You'll hear how she started paying her aunt Mabel 50 cents for each piano lesson, to all these years later and the students she calls "music friends" that have made her life full and sweet.
Talk about a mom job, she has done all of this while raising 6 of her own children.
She shares a few more than 3 prime tips for beginning piano teachers
Here are some things she taught me:
-sandwich the constructive between the compliment
-have a solo recital when students finish a book
-group classes were called "piano parties"
-be creative and always try something new
-the two piano book with Classical pieces we referenced is Favorite Classics accompaniment by Lancaster and Renfrow
Don't miss my interview with Pat Graham
angelatoone.com/
Make extra money--->teaching children to play--->
Play games to teach---->children play to learn--->
Play with children--->while making money--->
Make money to play more with your own children--->
Be there as mom of your own children--->while helping other children--->
Play the piano--->and you get to play with them!
This is an excerpt from this week's "why I teach wednesday" email, and in this week's podcast I expand and explain with a multi-level "play" on words
sign up for "why I teach wednesday"
how I teach a first lesson free video demonstrationmasterclasses and courses
angelatoone.com
Another one of my hobbies is gardening, but for aliving I’m growing piano students.
Think for a minute of what you are growing as a piano teacher. Not only students getting taller than their teacher, but they are growing in knowledge week in and week out, month after month, recital after recital. Growing in their abilities to play more and more complex and beautiful pieces, having varied experiences, and making new friends.
AND your income can grow and grow to move the needle of your financial goals, increase memories with your own family, and go into your own personal growth.
So teaching piano is not just a job, it’s money for growth. Growing students, improving piano teachers, and increasing your income at the same time.
Grow your knowledge of piano teaching with my courses at angelatoone.com
Teaching piano has given me freedom in the following ways:
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As a creative person
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As a mom
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As a saver
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And as a professional
I explain how teaching piano has given me freedom of creative expression, freedom of flexibility, freedom to finally be able to pay for stuff, and expand my mind and friendships
...just to name a few...
Only 4 spots left for the piano teacher primer LIVE, 4 weeks to either jump start or upgrade your piano studio with specialized help from an expert!
piano teacher primer LIVE
Starts Thursday May 2
also check out episode 39
angelatoone.com/
Curious about sharing your love for music?
Thought about teaching piano but unsure where to begin?
This podcast episode is the perfect starting point!
Come along as we unravel the secrets to successful piano teaching, from finding your teaching style to building a thriving student base.
Let's turn your passion for music into a rewarding career together!"
how I teach free video demonstration
How to Find Piano Students FREE Masterclass
Listen to these podcasts next:
3 to-dos before starting to teach piano
teaching the musical alphabet
landmarks and intervals...this is the way!
3 ways to teach rhythm...you choose the way!
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angelatoone.com
Some more piano teaching success stories comin at ya, but instead of from my own students, we have 3 of my clients. Piano teacher successes happening all over the country! From Utah to Kentucky to Georgia. They share a bit about their different studios, how they run things, and some things that have helped them along the way.
Renee is a former schoolteacher, teaching piano is her retirement plan.
Kirsten teaches in students' homes through the Volz system.
And Kelsey teaches at a private school after school hours.
So fun to hear different teaching circumstances as a bonus to this episode.
So enjoy hearing from Renee, Kirsten, and Kelsey.
HOW TO FIND PIANO STUDENTS FREE CLASS
piano teacher primer course
angela's courses
On this episode I mini-interview 2 of my actual students one current and one past: Mary and Tyler.
They each have overcome a lot to be able to perform as well as they do. They share what has been helpful as they've learned to manage performance anxiety.
Check out my next masterclass "Performance without Anxiety" Where I can teach you teachers what I taught them, and so much more!
Performance without Anxiety Masterclass
Memorization Mastery Replay
angelatoone.com/
piano teacher primer course
Heart beating,
palms sweating,
breathing faster,
hard to concentrate….you know what that means….stagefright or performance anxiety.
Something we all deal with to some extent, and our goal is not to stop feeling nervous, but work with it, and bring in the good feelings with helpful thoughts!
Inthis episode, I share what has worked for me as a pianist, what I learned from my college professors, and my own experience as an independent studio teacher. And of course what has worked for my piano students!
We discuss the thoughts that causethose physical sensations, and what to replace them with
Much more in-depth discussion, including the similarity between feeling nervous and excited, what students think others think about them, what experts have taught me, and more personal experiences, at a live zoom masterclass on this topic.
mark your calendars for:
Thursday April 11th 10:30 am Mountain Tiime
Have you or your students experienced these worst-case scenarios?
- Go up to perform…can’t remember thestarting notes.
- Or the performance is going pretty well, then get stuck and can’t finish!
- Or a huge break in the middle or skipped parts!
Mortifying! Traumatic even!
I know from experience!
I share some masterful ideas to help studentsplay by heart.
I‘d recommend pausing this episode and clicking on episode 41 “teach how they learn, 3 sensory modes” for an overview of visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners. In this episode 63 I talk specifically about how to teach piano memorization differently to the 3 different learning styles. One thing that helps us all….Starting places! Have you heard of them?
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Let me show you these and more memorization hacks in a live Zoom Masterclass next week: Memorization Mastery.
Thursday, March 21st. 10:30 am Mountain time.
See you there!
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how I teach free video
piano teacher primer course
scales and chords secrets masterclasses
Dr. Rachel Ehring is a true creative! She shares all the many hats she wears, and the solutions she has found and developed for each. We talk:
- teaching resources, private and group
- accompanying (she has a new how-to course coming out! link)
- podcasting
All the things! Here are her top 3 tips for beginning teachers
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Don't try to do everything. It's easy to get "shiny object" syndrome and want to try everything you hear about, but you have to choose what is going to be the most useful thing right now and focus on that
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That being said...don't be afraid to try new activities, games, tools. You will start to build an arsenal of activities that you can use "on the fly" if you have a squirrely student or one who is having a hard time grasping a concept.
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Stories are a great way to connect with students. You can use storybooks about music. I've also created short "sound effect stories" that I use with my beginning students to teach simple musical concepts.
Speaking of stories, characters and stories can be fantastic to help students memorize, details to come about techniques to teach Memorizing Mastery and Performance without Anxiety!
Dynamic Accompanying Course Waitlist
Dynamic Piano Teaching Podcast
Episode 15: Janet Hart on Piano Detectives Club
TopMusic Piano Podcast
Etsy Store (Sound Effect Stories)
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
Bravely take on any potentially challenging conversations with piano parents to bring the collaboration of student, teacher, and parent together all for the students' successful piano education. Things like
Student not practicing all their pieces
Recital piece not ready in time
Cutting back studio
Raising prices
And tips for communicating any change in your studio
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
Have any piano students on the Autism spectrum? How about ADHD? Dislexia? Maybe they are just very wiggly? If you haven't had the pleasure of teaching piano to students with different challenges, we will fill you in.... You teach them...differently!
Pop in my conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Davis-Everhart where she shares her own struggles from herself and her students, and some of the solutions she has found.
A true expert in the field, a Piano Teacher Pro. Her top tips:
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Observe. Keep notes on your lessons what worked and what didn't
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First teach the student, keep them at the center
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The best teachers are students, keep learning!
Facebook: Creative Piano Pedagogy
Instagram: creative_piano_pedagogy
Website: www.elizabethdavispiano.com
More piano teaching resources on
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
As a mom of 4 kids I get it!
In this episode I share a few quick tips and some longer term solutions for tired piano teachers.
My friend Jessica Allen has been teaching for 30 years (even longer than me!) and has over 60 students including younger child group classes through the Let's Play Music program, which she explains the idea behind and the process of using this program.
I also asked her to share some method books she has used and which types of students they are a good fit for. She shows the books on video if you want to check out the YouTube version or Spotify video podcasts.
letsplaymusicsite.com
Links for the books we talked about:
Piano Safari
Wunderkeys
Supersonics
Piano Pronto
Fired Up
More piano teaching resources on
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
Our culture sees imagination it as kind of childish, I'm here to offer that imagination can not only enhance our students' musical expression, but can improve our lives as we picture the studio and life of our dreams!
I pictured in my mind a job at home with my kids, teaching children something I am passionate about, with the flexibility I can manage around my life! Teaching piano became the reality.
Imagine having a set of questions to help students find their notes on their own!
Imagine having a set of sayings to match the rhythms you can pull out for that particular student who just isn't getting it!
Imagine your students having a knowledge of scales and how they connect to chords they can carry with them to wherever music takes them!
Imagine a small community of piano teachers we can bounce ideas off each other, learn the best usable tools, and get your questions answered!
Only a few days left until the Piano Teacher Toolbox 6 week group closes: January 31st at midnight! Only 8 spots available come join!
Click here to learn more
or angelatoone.com
First click here for info on an upgrade from the piano teacher primer course, the piano teacher TOOLBOX a 6 week small group packed with masterclasses, "done for you" games, Q & A, and bouncing ideas off each other. only 8 spots open now, starts February 1st.
Jessica Homewood of "not your mother's piano studio" is here sharing how she runs most of her studio in a group lesson format, but we also go into how she grew a new studio after moving to a new area. Google reviews, SEO, group lessons, plus her top 3 prime tips for new-ish piano teachers. Good advice for all of us really!
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Don't wait until the "right time"
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Treat it like a business, but keep it simple
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HAVE FUN!
notyourmotherspianostudio.com
No Printout Playbook
Group Piano
More piano teaching resources on
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
NEW
piano teacher TOOLBOX 6-week group
Going into more detail on how to start teaching classical music to piano students,
and my go-to resources with the easiest classical music ever written for piano.
Also, you gotta listen to episode 49. 3 tips on choosing music for students because once I have a book for the student, then we choose a piece using these steps.
Here are a few of my go-to resources for early level classical music in piano lessons:
Masterwork Classics ed. by Jane Magrath
Piano Literature Volume 3 ed. by Bastien
Piano Repertoire ed. by Keith Snell
Suzuki Piano method
The Pianists Guide to Standard Teaching and Performance Literature by Jane Magrath
Keep watching for details on my new program:
Piano Teacher Toolbox
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
Listen in for 4 no-guilt, no-resolution, no-stressNEW ideas you can try to make things more fun for your students and for yourself as a teacher!
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Learn a new piece yourself, or maybe pick up a new instrument!
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Try some new teaching books, method books, new pieces, new approaches to teach to your students.
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Test out some new apps/games/worksheets, or all 3, just to shake things up!
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A new investment. invest in your instrument, your physical, mental, and emotional health, and invest in your teaching with me at
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course stay in touch for new upgrade coming!
masterwork classics book
At this season of giving, I reflect on what a gift music is in our lives, and in the lives of our students.
The gift that keeps on giving!
Includes service, joy, and magic that spans the generations.
Happy Holidays everyone!
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
"aha moments"
"Eureka, I've got it"
"light bulb moments"
I share a few of my own, a few from my students, and how these moments can illuminate your piano teaching!
Find the instagram post for this episode and share some from your experience
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
This is your brain on music....superbrain!
This episode shares some statistics, quotes, and my own less-scientific observations of the effects of learning a musical instrument in general
-and in learning to play the piano specifically-
on the brain.
Things I share with my own students and parents.
Also I share some bonus extra good things piano lessons do to help students in their lives!
Some links below if you want to geek out further with me:
Music and Studying: It’s Complicated
Playing an Instrument: Better for Your Brain than Just Listening.
Does playing a musical instrument prevent dementia?
Ted-ed by Anita Collins
In honor of Thanksgiving, and my podcast turning 1 year old, I am feeling so grateful for 3 things in particular that piano teaching has given me:
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A chance educate cute kids, be a kid myself, and watch these kids grow into teens and adults creating lifelong relationships
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Piano teaching brings so many positive emotions! Amazement when they surprise you with huge growth, wows when they make incredible strides, and satisfaction of knowing I helped them gain this valuable skill!
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Finally, I am thankful for the extra income piano teaching has brought to our family. The debt we've paid off, the things we've saved for, and the security it brings.
Finally, thank YOU for being here and sharing this podcast with me! Please share this podcast with someone who could use a boost in income, likes kids, and might love the fulfillment of teaching them music!
One of the most challenging things about teaching piano lessons!
I get a lot of questions about choosing music for students, so I have 3 tips for you!
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Have the student try it out, sightread
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Play 3 choices for them either you play the piece for them on the piano, or look up good recordings on YouTube.
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Consider students' strengths and weaknesses. I explain times when we play up their strengths and times we strengthen their weaknesses!
I'd love to hear your suggestions too!
@angelatoone_ on instagram
episode 37 sneak peek and why
how I teach a first piano lesson, free video demonstration
angelatoone.com
I find myself saying these things over and over to students, so I will repeat them one more time and your students can hear it too!
The focus changes for us as teachers, but most of the episode is for adapting students' focus whether in a practice setting, performing solo, or performing in an group ensemble or duet. It changes! Listen in and apply.
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
Yes we have Andrea Miller from Music Studio Startup as a guest on the piano teacher primer podcast!
I think as piano teachers we're so excited about the kids, passionate about music, but maybe nervous about the business side of teaching piano. With Andrea's help, it's not a big deal!
Andrea helps us see the business side, see how the numbers work in real life, and see into the future. Her top 3 tips show her specific suggestions to implement whether you are just starting out, or ready for a change.
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Start getting in touch with your personal and studio values
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Stress test your studio policy
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Prioritize building fast
Connect with Andrea Miller of Music Studio Startup
https://www.musicstudiostartup.com/
https://www.instagram.com/musicstudiostartup/
https://www.facebook.com/musicstudiostartup
More piano teaching resources on
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
In this episode, we uncover the benefits and strategies for incorporating group piano classes into your private lesson routine. Discover the advantages of building a sense of community, encouraging collaboration, and reinforcing musical concepts in a group setting. Learn effective ways to structure group classes and enhance the overall learning experience for your students.
3 tips for recital planning
also check out this free video demonstration "how I teach a first piano lesson"
and the video replays of masterclasses: "scales and chords decoded"
piano teacher primer course
My friend Laura and I could not stop talking!
She has been teaching piano for 30 years, and teaches cello as well.
Like me, she has mentored students with teaching also.
Laura has developed an innovative way of teaching adults that is flexible, automated, and supports them in their musical goals!
She had me laughing hard more than once!
Her top 3 tips for beginning teachers
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Don't be afraid to teach differently than how you were taught
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Have mentors. Connect! Ask questions and keep learning
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Connect with students as a person and what excites them.
Be patient and encouraging. Enjoy the journey!
Those computer questionnaires that help you decide what to be when you grow up....not that helpful
My own intuition plus advice from my mom and piano teacher? ...very helpful!
I share what it was like 25 years ago when I started teaching
I often felt overwhelmed and underqualified
Good thing podcasts have since been invented!
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video: taught to me by my high school piano teacher Bonnie Winterton
piano teacher primer course:
This podcast is not just helping piano teachers, but also moms! Several moms have reached out and told me that they are using this podcast, and the free video "how I teach a first piano lesson" to teach their own kids piano, or supplement their piano lessons, or to prepare them for lessons with another teacher.
In this episode I relate some of my experiences teaching my own kids. What has worked, what hasn't, and how we also support parents of our students.
Don't miss out my next masterclass "chord secrets decoded" live on Zoom this Tuesday, Sept 26th!
"how I teach scales" masterclass video replay
I recommend the bundle so you see how one leads to the other
angelatoone.com
The most effective music lesson experience is a triangle approach:
Student
Teacher
Parent
All working together for the success of those music lessons. But we worry about overbearing parents, or the other end of the spectrum, parents not communicating much at all. These 3 tips I share with you will help bring some practicality to the philosophy:
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Set up clear expectations
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Communicate clearly throughout
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Individualize communication....a bit
Share with others on the instagram post angelatoone_ what has worked for you and your studio!
It's almost time for the "how I teach scales masterclass," next Tuesday September 19th! If you weren't fully taught the connection between scales and chords (I wasn't) then come see the secrets decoded before your eyes! And of course, actionable ways to teach these to your students. The very next week masterclass "chord secrets decoded" Watch how rote teaching of scales leads right into chords, which leads right into USING those chords however we want! I've had students go on to schoool jazz bands, other instruments, arranging, composing, or just playing any song they want with chord symbols only! Would hate for you to miss out on a chance to come live, but the replay will be available too!
scales and chords decoded masterclass bundle
Customize piano lessons to each individual student more effectively, they will learn more quickly, and have more fun along the way. Each of us generally leans toward one learning style based on the senses of :
- Visual
- Auditory
- Kinesthetic
With a possible close second place. See if you can figure out your own learning style, and the innate preferences of each of your students. In this episode, I pass onto you characteristics for each sensory preference, as well as effective teaching strategies I have learned from others and my own experience over the years. So fascinating!
Save the date for "how I teach scales masterclass" and "chord secrets decoded!" Masterclasses live on zoom, yes, replays will be available, and yes, you need to come to both because one builds upon the other! I have combined what I've learned from college theory classes, 25 years experience teaching, and my little bit of jazz dabbling to bring you this super applicable class.
Details on angelatoone.com
"Tune" in for a captivating mini masterclass on the secret about chords!
I teach where chords come from,
I teach them by rote,
And connecting them to the notes on the page, and of course, to the pieces they are learning!
Chords are the heartbeat of music, and teaching students to embrace chords sets the stage for their musical journey.
Mark your calendar for
Tuesday, September 19th 10 am MDT. "how I teach scales masterclass" - I'm teaching it live again! (or the recording is still posted here)
Tuesday, September 26th 10 am MDT. "the secret about chords" - must sign up for scales masterclass first because they are connected!
Live on Zoom,
learn more at angelatoone.com
How MUCH to charge varies widely across countries, states, and cities, but this podcast focuses on HOW to charge tuition.
There's by the lesson,
By the month
Full tuition
And my own semester system.
I have come up with a method of tuition for private piano lessons that seems to be quite unique, so I'm sharing it with you today!
Also, listen in for thoughts about make-up lessons, and raising prices
Any questions about this or anything else about piano teaching DM me on instagram @angelatoone
.
More on this topic in the piano teacher primer course
angelatoone.com
Special guest on the podcast today....my husband Tyler Toone!
He was recently let go from his job,
which has given new purpose and meaning to my piano teaching.
Also check out a related episode 12 for more on this topic.
Today, we get to hear his perspective on some of our most scary financial times in the past,
and how piano teaching has not only helped us survive, but thrive as a family.
You too can teach piano on the side,
And I will guide you along your way!
Start with this free video demonstration with my real student: how I teach a first piano lesson
piano teacher primer course
See episode 37 or my instagram @angelatoone_ for sneak peek inside
A sneak peek into the piano teacher primer online course and WHY I created it, WHY I included each section in the course, and a few updates that I have learned along the way.
click here to learn more about the piano teacher primer course
how I teach a first lesson free video demonstration
Follow me on Instagram @angelatoone for a video sneak peek of the course, funny music laughs, and more piano teaching games on the highlight bubble "How to Teach"
angelatoone.com
This podcast celebrates the innate connection between "PLAY" and music, emphasizing the joy of playing instruments for ourselves, and incorporating playfulness, creativity, and a sense of adventure in piano teaching. This way, teachers can make learning fun for students and reignite their own passion for music. Embrace the power of "PLAY" and discover the magic it brings to the musical journey. Don't forget to PLAY the piano!
In piano teaching, it's essential to focus on the positives rather than just pointing out mistakes.
Greet students warmly,
celebrate their improvements,
and cherish their musical journey through reflection and mementos.
Emphasizing the positive impact we have as teachers creates a nurturing environment and inspires students to shine in their musical pursuits!
For more advice and experiences to help us ENJOY teaching piano more, check out the piano teacher primer course
how I teach a first piano lesson free video
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
My friend Terry has presented on this topic, and I HAD to have her on the podcast! It's a different approach than mine, but that's the beauty of it!
Five Fundamentals for a Rock Solid Launch with Terry Peterson
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Body and Hands
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Musical Alphabet
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Reading on the Staff
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Keyboard Orientation.
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Rhythm
She teaches group classes from ages 4-6, but you could incorporate these activities into private lessons no problem, or use them to teach your own children!
Terry's DIY Tips:
she found magnet boards on Amazon or Walmart
vinyl tape makes the staff lines, use a ruler to apply
colored magnets on Amazon,
alphabet stickers from Hobby Lobby.
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video:
piano teacher primer course:
"I play the piano, but I don't play that well"
"I don't have a degree or anything"
"how do I find students, and what do I do with them when they arrive?"
These are some things I've heard from others who don't feel qualified to teach piano, I'll share some comments and suggestions for each one that you might not have considered previously!
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
What is "why I teach wednesday?"
Well, I'll tell ya!
Each week, I ponder the question "Why do I teach piano?" and share my responses in a short email series.
Today on the podcast, I read a few favorites to you hoping it gives you a pause, a little smile, and a little boost to your teaching day.
I'd love to hear why YOU teach piano? Join me on Instagram @angelatoone_ and comment on the post for this episode. Who knows? Your answer may be included in a future email!
For more on HOW to teach piano, go to angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson free video demonstration
All my best advice to empower piano teachers everywhere giving tools in your toolbelt, philosophies for making the lessons stick, and mindset for enjoying your time teaching each week:
piano teacher primer course
You won't believe the job he couldn't wait to quit! Then he started teaching piano so he could have a real job!
Favorite quote from Josh: "Everybody wins when you're willing to share your knowledge freely"
He summarized some of the best ways the teachers he has studied with have influenced his teaching:
Dr. Susan Duehlmeir, Dr. Logan Skelton, and Sergei Babayan
His Top 3 Tips for Beginning Piano Teachers
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Find a quality teacher or mentor. It's time and money well spent
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Have patience and realize that piano is an ultra-marathon. Enjoying the journey is so important.
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Practice in a variety of tempos. Master all the details slowly. Tempo is the final step
These tips relate to learning the piano as well as teaching.
He even showed a little piano technique on the interview!
Bonus he explains his setup for teaching online with multiple cameras:
YouTube dual video angles
amazon link ATEM Mini
Youtube blue yeti microphone
amazon link blue yet microphone
website: joshwrightpiano.com
courses: joshwrightpiano.teachable.com
Use coupon code "podcast" for 20% off!
email: josh@joshwrightpiano.com
I can be that quality teacher or mentor for teachers just starting out! - angela
angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
A few suggestions on keeping up your own skills as a pianist.
Yes, if you play the piano, you are a pianist!
And not just to improve, but because it's just so dang fun.
If you are loving this podcast as much as I am,
Leave a 5 star rating or a review to help more piano teachers find the help they need.
angelatoone.com is where you can find all the good stuff:
how I teach a first piano lesson free video
how I teach scales masterclass
piano teacher primer course
Favorite quote from Leila: "If I make this fun, I will ENJOY teaching from 3 to 7...This is MY thing that I am going to have fun with. I (can) bring students in and show them that music CAN be fun!" And she totally got me laughing when we started talking about floppy disks and CD Roms. Leila sought out creativity and composing herself, and then felt more confident to pass it on to her students including a "buddy lesson" format with off-bench time, where each student learns independently on the ipad. We also talk about rote teaching, check out a free video demonstration of some rote pieces for the first lesson from Angela: watch App mentioned: Sproutbeat Book: The Dynamic Studio: How to keep students, dazzle parents, and build the music studio everyone wants to get into by Philip Johnston Leila's book: The iPad Piano Studio: Keys to Unlocking the Power of Apps Leila's Website: leilaviss.com
Practice Strategies Stickers: link Leila's YouTube: @leilaviss Leila's Instagram: @leilaviss
Rewards and costs of teaching piano ensembles
Wouldn't it be easier to just play solo piano?
Well, yeah, but ensembles pack a great bang for the buck, and enhances their piano education like nothing else can!
I share some rewards like rhythm, motivation, playing along with students,
and costs like mental energy, time, planning etc. things I learned from participating in a multi-piano concert recently!
check out my instagram @angelatoone_ for videos of my students preparing and then performing them at the concert
Visit angelatoone.com
for only the best stuff to motivate, energize, and inspire your piano teaching.
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
In this episode, I share some fingering tricks I have come up with over the years
of teaching piano lessons,
and the hints for them that I draw right on their music,
to bring the students' eyes to the score,
help them look ahead,
and prepare for unexpected changes.
fingering tricks
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same note, different finger
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stretch
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scrunch
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crossover
We use examples from Masterwork Classics Level 1-2 edited by Jane Magrath
They are simple and easy to use in the piano lesson today!
What fingering tricks have you found helpful?
Share on Instagram @angelatoone_
Or Spotify Q and A
Other piano teaching resources:
Free video demonstration: "how I teach a first piano lesson"
Video of live Masterclass: "how I teach scales" replay
piano teacher training kit "piano teacher primer course"
What a fun conversation with Amy Chaplin from the Piano Pantry blog and podcast!
She has had some twists and turns, and "meant-to-be" circumstances that have led her to independent piano teaching,
plus amazing content she shares online and through consulting and retreats.
Her bubbly energy comes through, and I know you'll have as much fun listening to her as I did!
Instagram: @amychaplin
Blog: pianopantry.com
Podcast: Piano Pantry Podcast Apple link, Piano Pantry Podcast Spotify link
Why are scales important do you think?
Did you learn them growing up?
Share your comments on Instagram @toonestunes or on Spotify Q and A
If you feel unsure or intimidated at all about teaching scales in piano lessons,
listen for 5 good reasons WHY teach scales
then watch HOW to teach scales live on a zoom masterclass:
Tuesday, May 16th at 10:00 am Mountain Daylight Time
That's 9:00 am Pacific
11:00 am Central
Noon Eastern
Only 12 bucks!
Learn more at angelatoone.com
Christina Whitlock of the Beyond Measure Podcast!
But First! Join me on March 16th, 10:00 am MDT for "how I teach scales" masterclass
angelatoone.com to learn more
Hear how Christina started teaching, what her studio looks like now, and her Top 3 Tips for teachers starting out.
From start to current studio changes, podcaster to presenter at conferences, college professor to online creator, her journey has been interesting and amazing!
She gives some really sage advice useful for all piano teachers whether beginners or teaching for decades like me!
Enjoy my conversation with Christina Whitlock!
Beyond Measure Podcast with Christina Whitlock
on Instagram: @beyondmeasurepodcast
Studio Foundations Course
Consulting with Christina
Also check out:
Free video demonstration "how I teach a first piano lesson" with Angela Toone
piano teacher primer course with Angela Toone
Instagram @toonestunes
Summertime and the livin' is easy?
Sometimes for piano teachers, not so much.
Listen for ideas on how to make summer work for YOU and your family, and for your students.
Camps, groups, just fewer lessons, or other creative ideas.
Share yours on Instagram or Spotify Q and A!
More piano teaching resources on angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video
piano teacher primer course
You will LOVE the story of how Abigail Profitt started piano teaching!
She not only has taught many students, she specializes in preschool age students, neurodivergent students, and games with purpose.
Besides the cutest games, Abigail has created many resources for piano teaching found on her Etsy site "WholeFoundation Method"
Also find her on instagram: @profittpianostudio
Piano Method Series mentioned:
Faber and Faber Piano Adventures
Celebrate Piano Series
She also calls herself the "Organizing Queen" and gives us tips there.
My favorite quote "We are not just teaching piano, we are teaching individuals"
Talent vs ProgressWhich is more important?Which one wins? Practice makes progress!So, does talent have any weight at all?Listen for some thoughts on this topic, and I'd love to hear yours on Instagram or Spotify Q and A! Book mentioned is Growth Mindset by Carol Dweckangelatoone.comfree video demonstration, "how I teach a first piano lesson"piano teacher primer course
The first pro tip episode of the piano teacher primer podcast! Amy Elmore has taught for decades in the background of raising her 2 kids. Recently the music business had come to the forefront of her focus with running a multi-teacher studio, teaching preschool music classes, and becoming a business coach for piano teachers! Listen for her top 3 prime pro tips for piano teachers!Amy Elmore on Instagram:@amy_elmore_coaching@keys_to_praise_studioAngela Toone NCTMangelatoone.com@toonestunes on Instagram
In this episode, we go through the fingers, hand, arm, and good body position for playing the piano, and how I make it fun to teach to kids!
And of course, WHY we teach good technique all along the way!
For a visual on these tricks head to angelatoone.com for a free video demonstration on how I teach a first piano lesson.
Also visit my Instagram profile @toonestunes there's a highlight bubble with more ideas shown and explained
Did you know this was even possible?!?
How do you make the lesson fun and/or meaningful when the student hasn't practiced?
Try the Q and A on Spotify, or find this post on instagram @toonestunes
In this episode, we not only talk about making the lesson fun for the unpracticed student,
but also adding more fun for me as a teacher....and a music nerd
For more tried and true, tips and tricks, plus teaching downloads you can print off and use right away,
and mindset advice to help you enjoy teaching students,
Use code birthday10 for $10 off the already low-priced piano teacher primer course
More piano teaching resources on www.angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video: first lesson video demonstration
Many good teachers say, "now go home and practice."
But GREAT teachers show them HOW to practice.
Listen for how I fit that into the lesson each week.
More about this topic in the piano teacher primer course, $10 off code for March 2023 only!
I have a whole video in the piano teacher primer course
the why, when, how, and where that walks you through recital planning,
but for today here are 3 tips:
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Plan way ahead
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Teach and practice the entire experience of announcing, playing continually, and smile and bow.
-
Change it up and make it fun...for you too!
Share your recital theme ideas on Instagram @toonestunes or Spotify Q and A. Also don't forget to use the birthday code on the piano teacher primer course!
Some ways I've arranged piano teaching to work with being a mom at the same time! We go through stages of mom life with babies and toddlers, school kids, teens, and empty nesting.
More piano teaching resources on www.angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video: https://angelatoone.thinkific.com/courses/FirstLesson
piano teacher primer course: https://angelatoone.thinkific.com/courses/primer
Listen for 5 piano teaching resources worth paying for Share on Instagram @toonestunes your favorite "totally worth it" piano teaching resources. Or answer in Spotify Q and A. Would love to get a conversation going!
Music Teachers National Association: www.mtna.org
National Federtion of Music Clubs: https://www.nfmc-music.org/
pianobox.net
susanparadis.com
Etsy search wholefoundation
juliedudamusicstudio.com
theplayfulpiano.com my friend Jennifer Boster
teacherspayteachers.com
my Instagram @toonestunes highlight bubble how to teach
my website: www.angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video: https://angelatoone.thinkific.com/courses/FirstLesson
piano teacher primer course: https://angelatoone.thinkific.com/courses/primer
I think adding to the family income by teaching piano has been the funnest! I share 3 fun things I've done with teaching money to help reach our financial goals, all while helping students reach their music goals! It's a win win! Also stay tuned for a good deal on the "piano teacher primer online course." $10 off code coming soon for my birthday month of March!
website: www.angelatoone.com
how I teach a first piano lesson video: https://angelatoone.thinkific.com/courses/FirstLesson
piano teacher primer course: https://angelatoone.thinkific.com/courses/primer
Learning to play the organ has been...humbling to say the least. As I've put on my fancy organ shoes, I have put myself in my students' shoes so-to-speak and I can relate and empathize with them in these ways.
How to teach rhythm?! What to have them say? Whether it's traditional counting "1 and 2 and..." Syllables like"TA ti ti..." Fruit names, or whatever other way we come up with as piano teachers, we can add ideas to our toolbelt as our students internalize rhythms in their own way. Chime in on Instagram or Spotify Q and A with what rhythm tricks you use!
No matter what piano method book you use, you can drill and use the "Landmark notes" shown by the clefs. And intervals around them to help students find their notes quicker, get less confused, and become better sight reading piano players!
Ever have a student struggle with a concept like a rhythm and over and over you correct them, but they haven't gotten it right yet? I just had that happen right before recording! And the solution is like magic! Break it down to small enough "bites" to succeed, then build it up from there.
Student comes back to their lesson, and they play a wrong note...I don't tell them it's wrong...wha? Here's what I do instead to empower the students to be the best sight readers ever in a positive way, and it has staying power!
3 elements to consider when deciding to pass of the students piece, or to stick with it longer. We cover the basics to listen for in the lesson, consider the concept the piano piece is teaching, and discuss dynamics and interpretation.
How did I get here? Full-time Mom, Part- time Piano Teacher, and now running an online business? Sharing some of my journey, and a few reasons why I started this podcast in hopes of improving piano teaching the world over!
Three frequently asked questions from parents of piano students: 1. What age to start a child in piano lessons2. What to charge3. What books to useAs an experienced piano teacher, I share how I answer these questions, and a few things to consider as you begin creating your own piano studio and teaching your own lessons. Best job in the world!
Before starting to teach piano there are some decisions to make, tools needed, details on policy letters, and tips for a pre-lesson interview.
Ever have students take forever to find a white note by counting up from A? This is a fun way to teach beginner piano students to recognize the notes on the piano by their position on the keyboard. I use little erasers to help them remember! They love it and the games you can use to reinforce the concept during the piano lesson are endless. Find my instagram post @toonestunes to share your tricks for helping them remember the white notes! More tips on how to teach piano coming your way!
Description of 3 things I include in the first few beginner piano lessons. 1. Field trip inside the piano, 2.Hand and body position, 3. Audio of the first pieces I teach a student by rote. These songs work I tell you! Watch a free video demonstration with my darling student at angelatoone.com