Austin Music Teacher

Flash card races will take place this week and next. Each student is timed for one minute, both saying and playing the note presented on flash cards. They can “pass” if taking too long.The goal is to recognize notes as quickly as possible. I take the better score from two tries and give a prize [...]

There are 11 students from my studio participating in the National Guild of Piano Teachers Auditions. This began in the 1920′s all over America. It is an opportunity for a competition with one’s self and an effort to achieve one’s best effort in memory and performance. Judges are kind and accommodating, not wishing to intimidate [...]

I note hand positions and respond something like, “Those are pancake hands. That’s for breakfast, not for piano playing.” It’s funny but makes a point.

We are anticipating two great recitals to celebrate performance accomplishments this spring. They will both be held on Sunday, May 20 at the Bachus Conservatory, the first at 1:30 and the second at 3:00pm. Numerous duets are included in the program, performed by friends, siblings and family members. The repertoire is varied and entertaining. Any [...]

Yesterday the students presented two great recitals featuring mostly seasonal music. It was festive and fun, with a reception following. The gift of music is always appreciated. A big thanks to all the talented students

Our first Halloween Recital was a spooktacular hit. Forty-eight performers and their teacher were all in costume. Everyone enjoyed the treats and party favors. This will probably become a tradition. Scroll Down to the bottom of this post to see the 2nd part of the recital video!

The Austin District Music Teachers’ Association offers membership to students each fall, and again in the spring. Membership enables students to take the state theory test each semester and participate in various performance festivals throughout the year. These include: Jazz/Pop/Rock, Duet, Hymn, Baroque/Classical, and Romantic Festivals. Deadline for the fall’s membership is September 19th. I [...]

Two recitals were held on May 22, 2011 at the First Baptist Church at 9th and Trinity. A total of 60 students performed carefully chosen solos, as well as various duets with parents, siblings and friends. There were no duplications so the programs were varied and entertaining. Awards were given for Consistency of Practice, April Flash Card races,  [...]

The fall after school schedule is completely full. There are openings Saturday afternoons between 2:30 and 4:30. I have a small waiting list as well. I would consider the idea of teaching before school and mornings for preschoolers and adults. For the first time, the studio will present a Halloween Recital in costume with treats, [...]

1.Hanon Exercises: The repetitive patterns are learned, then played from memory with increasing speed. They can be done almost by rote in a short time, accessing a part of the brain that uses predictability and pattern recognition. 1a.Schmitt: These are simply 5-finger patterns that change with every measure, being repeated only once, and move in subtle [...]