Deep Practice: Inspect Your Piece
My creative juices started flowing when I read this article by Terry Heick of Teach Thought, How to Read a Book (super info-graphic included). Many of the points he makes about reading books…
Beethoven As An Icebreaker?
Do you teach classes or small groups as a part of your studio or music center curriculum? I do. One of the toughest parts of my year is sizing up…
When Music Went Silent: New Musical Experiences for Online Teaching
When my husband and I toasted the new year for 2020, my calendar was filled with exciting activities. I was actively involved in the Music Teachers Association in California where…
This Week I Learned Some Things About Making Videos
We're definitely not in Kansas anymore. As one of my teaching friends put it, within the last week and a half, we musicians and teachers have completely upended our entire…
Seven Pieces To Play When You’re Feeling Expressive
One evening, after a truly rotten day, I came home feeling drained and out of sorts. Traffic had been terrible, practicing had been a hard slog, and there was this…
How To Teach Composition Remotely (with a little help from some Cereal)
I absolutely love it when fellow teachers get creative with my teaching tools. After all, my motto for Fistful of Notes is; Because a good teaching tool shouldn't just work…
Key Signature and Accidental Potholes: 5 Ways to Fix Them
My Dad taught me to drive. He spent many hours on the road for work and was a demanding teacher. One day we were practicing on a back road that…
Reads to Gift This Season: Part 2, Kids
Welcome to Part 2 of my book pics for this season—kids edition. Here you'll find a selection of favorite books for children chosen by our kids and grands, as well…