Category: Pedagogy Articles

Level 2: Articulation and the Wrist

An essential concept of Level 2 is beginning articulation, specifically legato and staccato. These terms are so familiar to us as music teachers that we might overlook the importance of these touches in developing technique and musical expression. Perhaps you have noticed that there are no articulation marks at Level 1—no slurs and no staccato […]

Synergy at Level 1

There is much to share with our beginning students. With limited lesson time, how do we maximize our results? Fortunately, Level 1 presents three elements of pedagogy that have exponential value when taught in combination: introducing new notes with varied fingerings to develop note-reading skill utilizing arm weight for tone production and technique development using […]

The Power of Primary Chords

Perhaps the favorite application of music theory in piano instruction is the teaching of  I, IV, and V7 chords – that familiar cluster surrounding the root-position I chord. Primary chords are a guiding concept for Level 4 (Spanish Edition) and the corresponding Student Choice books. The I‑IV-V7 chord formula is favored for good reason: The chords […]

Adult Piano Adventures Popular Book 2

Teach and Learn with ACE

To the student, Piano Adventures implies an exciting exploration. To the teacher, Piano Adventures implies a philosophy and mission to develop the student’s musical mind and heart. The process of guiding a young person to develop the mind (intellect) and the heart (expression) can help form valuable life skills: confidence, curiosity, discipline, self-esteem, sensitivity to nuance, […]

A Year of Technique and Artistry

Technique Secrets are the essential pianistic movements, gestures and touches — a scaffold of progressing skill development. We see wide variety in students in the type of music they wish to play, in the level of commitment they bring to practice, and in coordination and listening abilities. However, one thing we know for sure — […]

The Skater’s Waltz

Level 2B, Lesson Book, Pg. 26 Watch as Nancy cultivates Philip’s musical artistry through affirming his expressive performance of The Skater’s Waltz. To the student, Piano Adventures® implies an exciting exploration. To the teacher, Piano Adventures® implies a mission and mindset which puts the student’s personal development in the fore. The Piano Adventures® Teacher refers to […]

Teaching Beginners with Special Needs

Written by Randall Faber and Mary Kathryn Archuleta If you are a piano teacher, you have likely considered opening your studio, and your heart, to the 1 in 150 children diagnosed with an autistic-spectrum disorder or other impairment. Music lessons provide the structural regularity that children with special needs require. And, within that structure, it is […]