I teach all my adult students scales quite early in their lessons (or make sure they know their scales well already) because I believe listening and understanding the structure of scales are one of the most foundational building blocks of understanding western music. I typically teach chord and arpeggio construction based on scales and useContinue reading “Teaching Scales”
Category Archives: DawnTM Teaching Book
Famous Song Introductions for Fun and Technique
I recently had a student where I was struggling to find approachable and appealing material. The student always wanted to work on pieces that were above their technical ability, so they typically spent a very long time (too long) on each piece. Method books had shorter and easier songs, but were unappealing to this youngContinue reading “Famous Song Introductions for Fun and Technique”
Why I Love Hanon
Talk to any pianist and they will have heard of Hanon and probably also have strong opinions either for or against the use of these 5 finger technical exercises. I’m a big fan of Hanon exercises. I use them myself and with my students, but I do use them in particular ways. Who was CharlesContinue reading “Why I Love Hanon”
How The Piano Works and Tone
An article on how the piano works and the impact on tone production at the piano for the beginning student.
Good Piano Posture
Having good piano posture and an ability to move freely at the keyboard without tension is fundamental to piano playing. The goal is to play without tension and in harmony with our body structure. “Have the body supple right to the tips of the toes” – Chopin Release Tension:* Stretch or shake your arms andContinue reading “Good Piano Posture”
Music and the Brain
I always like to give my adult students some reasons to learn to play the piano (and practice). Number one is you simply need to want to learn to play, because learning how to play the piano is hard work. However, another motivation is that there is plenty of evidence as to why learning toContinue reading “Music and the Brain”
How To Improve Sight Reading
Definition of sight reading and skills to improve piano sight reading.
Music Note Flashcards
How to use music note flashcards to improve note reading.
Learn To Love Your Practice
Practice is essential to learning to play the piano. Here are some tips to learn to love you practice.
Making A Great Practice Space
Key elements to having a great piano practice space.
Piano Lessons for Adults 