Playing Hardball
Last week I was blindsided by a situation and forced to play hardball. I would never have chosen this battle but it was apparently my time to fight. After some…
PA Shorts: Do It Again…
The following funny struck a chord (voiced of course) with myself and many others when it went live last week. Most of us who are teachers have experienced both sides…
That’s Weird, I Don’t Like It
"That's weird. I don't like it." A stony face looked at me from behind brown bangs and round glasses. "Tell me how you really feel," I thought. "What don't you…
Vintage PA: Body Parts, Chocolate, & Equality
I often have the privilege of judging and evaluating piano piano competitions and festivals. It is a joy to hear all levels of pianists dig deep and play their very…
Occupational Octaves: Adding that Occupational Part
Hi there everyone. I’m Lee Stockner and I’m pleased to share my latest Occupational Octaves column with you. The bulk of my lessons have been taught alongside, and improved by,…
Not Exactly Pre-Reading: 1-2-3 Line Read & Play
With the beginning of the school year looming, the teachers I am mentoring are again full of questions about how to best help their beginning readers—especially those who look at the…
Memory Fail: Expert Level
@playinglesshurt 7/13/16 When I was in college and ready to give my first recital, I found myself anxious about several passages. My teacher, Pat, helped me through them, but, of…
PA Shorts: Time Is Time & Some Cats
"Time is time. You understand it? We have to be first to the_______" A tour guide said this multiple times each day while we were in his charge and it has…