Playing With Wolfgang: How Messiaen Taught Me The Law of Opposites
I was immersed in 5 pieces from Messiaen’s Contemplations of the Infant Jesus. It’s hard not to be once you step through the rabbit hole and begin working on them.…
Vintage PA: Ogres Are Like Onions
In the middle of a lesson a few weeks ago, I found myself saying, “Musical works are like onions.” There was no laugh or questioning look. My student simply sat…
Piano Maker’s Corner: Rising From the Ashes: The Origins of Phoenix
Meet Doug Chapman, Head Piano Technician for Phoenix Pianos, a British piano company located on the picturesque Hurstwood Farm, near Sevenoaks in Kent, England! He and Richard Dain, founder of Hurstwood Farm…
Occupational Octaves: Do People With Autism…?
Hi there again. It's Lee welcoming you back for our next Occupational Octaves column! After a very, very long two-part introductory blog, it’s time for me to focus on my…
The Positives of Near Misses
Have you ever been motivated by losing a job, a race, a competition, or another opportunity? When you lost out, did you miss by only a little or a lot?…
Great Finds: Practice Resources & Summer Camps
It's spring! At least my trees and the irises think so—along with some of my students, who suddenly are exhibiting signs of spring fever. (also, it's supposed to be 89°F…
Piano Maker’s Corner: Ability and Pin Blocks
Did you know that pianos have ability? Pianos are usually tuned to A440 (normal pressure). If they can’t be tuned to that, they are tuned to the best of their…
PA Shorts: Job Security
My college teacher told us over and over that his goal was to put himself out of a job! What??? Understanding was gradual for me. I needed his help and…