Last week was our first week of our Nutcracker Christmas camp. One of my favorite activities is using flashlights to help the kids learn about the musical form. Before we bring out the flashlights, I have them pick out the A, B and C sections. Before camp, I had...
The Power of Praise in Students Practice
Think of the last time someone praised you on something you accomplished whether big or small. When was the last time you received an email or perhaps a note in the mail from someone saying how proud they are of you? Or perhaps offered a word of encouragement...
Halloween Performance, Games and Activity Ideas
Saturday was my yearly Halloween Piano Festival. It's my most favorite performance of the year! I love fall! It is my favorite time of year. The weather starts to cool down (still waiting on that one since it reached 94 yesterday- but at least we are out of the triple...
Purposeful Practice
One of my favorite things to talk about and create things for is practice. I've created lots of different practice tools for my students over the years after all it is something they must do if they want to get better, right? I think one reason I find the...
Storybook Compositions
This year in the studio my big focus was on composition. Each month I would have my students create a storyline along with a melody that would go with their story. As the months progressed they were adding to their story and their composition. I LOVED putting these...
Got Wiggly Students?
If you are a teacher, chances are you have come across wiggly students. Students who have a hard time sitting still whatever the reason might be. Did you know that in order for kids to focus, their bodies NEED to move? Whether you teach in the classroom or in a...
What Would You Tell Your Future Self?
Today is Back to the Future day! How many of you are BTF fans? I was a teenager when Back to the Future came out 30 years ago! If you can go back in time, what would you tell your future self about being a teacher? A few things I thought about that I wish I would have...
New Halloween Game!
Yesterday I decorated my front yard. Our halloween festival is next weekend! Yay! Can't wait. This is one of my favorite times of the year. I have a fun new game that I just finished and is sure to be a SPOOKTACULAR time if you are doing a Halloween themed group...
New Music Themed Cards and a Giveaway!
I'm having a blast making music themed cards. These cards are not only great to use with students and their families, but I'm planning on using them with family and friends too! I thought I would share previews of all the cards that are available in my store now!...
An Inside Look at The Magical Lute; A Musical Quest
I have had quite a few questions about the new incentive program in the last week so I thought I would create a video showing you first hand what this program is all about. I also address some of the questions that have been asked. The video is a little longer than I...