tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68401993647938115172024-03-17T22:59:51.406-04:00Woods Piano StudioOnline Piano LessonsWoods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-51560909399829524742022-02-02T12:50:00.005-05:002023-11-21T09:34:00.676-05:00About Woods Piano Studio<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLvo5WWnRXb0lI4GhIHH__bh-cZbT8BWidkWcZ7xMlxvJcK0I5BgRujqJl_p77E0co_jj5hI9Bmmt7fc6a1_ViAU7ExAMWqK9M9YN_fgsk_fVyr4WXCL8jF4jgQgFYgUpqB7-pcLpMBscUcmm2JQTeTTAp6CL7UuRLSUwmtw1bDb0l7dVmrTnda5IYA/s1395/Attach0_69~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1395" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLvo5WWnRXb0lI4GhIHH__bh-cZbT8BWidkWcZ7xMlxvJcK0I5BgRujqJl_p77E0co_jj5hI9Bmmt7fc6a1_ViAU7ExAMWqK9M9YN_fgsk_fVyr4WXCL8jF4jgQgFYgUpqB7-pcLpMBscUcmm2JQTeTTAp6CL7UuRLSUwmtw1bDb0l7dVmrTnda5IYA/w400-h258/Attach0_69~2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p></blockquote><div style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #1d2129; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;">Woods Piano Studio provides private piano lessons online and warmly welcomes students of all abilities, ages 7 to adult. </span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">As a student, you will be supported with encouragement, instruction, and the joy of music. Lessons are carefully planned so that progress is steadily made and your personal musical goals are being met. </span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Our students have been amazed at their quick progress and enjoy the interactive activities included in their weekly lessons. They appreciate the lesson notes detailing what was learned and should be practiced during the week. </span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Each lesson is designed to create a well-rounded music education, and includes instruction in technique, repertoire, theory, and as time permits, creative projects such as improvisation, composing, ear training, music history, and more. Resources are thoughtfully chosen to fit your specific learning needs. All lessons are taught by Brandy Woods, an active musician and professional teacher. </span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.4px;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="font-family: arial;">Ready to enroll in online piano lessons? Click here to <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/p/blog-page_55.html" style="color: #cc5a00; text-decoration-line: none;">register online</a> and get started!</span></span></div>Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-20735076741161428222017-08-13T22:56:00.006-04:002017-08-13T23:00:09.788-04:00Kicking Off the School Year: Piano Studio Edition<span style="font-size: large;">Summer has flown by and it's hard to believe that students will be headed back to school in just a few short weeks. Although lessons have continued as usual throughout the summer, this time of year is a great time to start new projects within the studio!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">ABOUT ME CARDS</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://colorinmypiano.com/2017/08/10/printable-about-me-student-profile-cards/"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="600" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NGYrvv424Lo/WZEL9iLYO4I/AAAAAAAACVo/2IQiwroXez8pcs0d6W5S0WjPcF9pbzhyACLcBGAs/s320/AboutMeColorInMyPiano.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">During the summer, we welcomed several new private and <a href="https://www.kiddykeys.com/">KiddyKeys</a> students to the studio. <a href="http://colorinmypiano.com/2017/08/10/printable-about-me-student-profile-cards/">Joy Morin of Color In My Piano</a> recently released an <a href="http://colorinmypiano.com/2017/08/10/printable-about-me-student-profile-cards/">"About Me" printable</a> that is the perfect solution to helping my students become acquainted with one another.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">30 PIECE CHALLENGE</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://composecreate.com/new-30-piece-challenge-forms/"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="525" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nrqgr7kOuyA/WZERx-7ZKJI/AAAAAAAACWk/Zg-v_GE9ImEFVyMKW3-IQB3Nhm1rVkBGgCEwYBhgL/s320/LizbethAtkinsonStudent-30-piece-challenge.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://composecreate.com/30-piece-challenge-new-charts-cards-and-checklists/" style="font-size: x-large;">The 30 Piece Challenge</a><span style="font-size: large;"> has been on my radar for over two years now, and this year is the perfect time to launch it in the studio. The goal of this challenge is to improve sight-reading and broaden musicianship. </span><a href="https://composecreate.com/30-piece-challenge-new-charts-cards-and-checklists/" style="font-size: x-large;">Wendy Stevens has some fantastic charts</a><span style="font-size: large;"> that I plan to use in the studio this year. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">BRAG TAGS</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/547728689/piano-lesson-brag-tags-scales?show_panel=true"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="570" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1k3bD0KFs_c/WZEQiHLs_MI/AAAAAAAACWM/u1WPxxat2WwXr4uuiIr27MKQihhaYfNmgCLcBGAs/s320/BragTags.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/547728689/piano-lesson-brag-tags-scales?show_panel=true" style="font-size: x-large;">Heidi Scott</a><span style="font-size: large;">, a colleague on Facebook, recently shared her brilliant take on brag tags for the piano studio. These are a great way to develop and encourage intrinsic motivation while simultaneously tracking all the progress each student makes throughout the year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm really looking forward to introducing these fresh ideas into the studio this year! </span></div>
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-702029930925078062017-05-02T11:55:00.001-04:002017-05-02T11:55:16.453-04:00Keep Calm and Carry On<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt-Men0bJdY/WQiq__daQVI/AAAAAAAACAQ/2mxv-OInILs7SVhbzSujXnsEeIDpCY4TwCLcB/s1600/Untitled%2Bdesign%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt-Men0bJdY/WQiq__daQVI/AAAAAAAACAQ/2mxv-OInILs7SVhbzSujXnsEeIDpCY4TwCLcB/s400/Untitled%2Bdesign%2B%25281%2529.png" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Late spring is an especially busy time for piano teachers; spring recitals, policy updates, and examinations are at the forefront of their lives. Amidst all this activity, it is easy to feel stressed and perhaps a bit overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you thrive during this busy time of year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Do. Drop. Delegate.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Last year, I received some invaluable advice on prioritizing from a local entrepreneur, <a href="http://wadetrained.com/" target="_blank">Ryan Wade</a>. He said, </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>"Do. Drop. Delegate. Do--Look at the list and see what can be done in less than two minutes. Just do them and check them off to feel accomplished and revved to go. Then, tackle the important tasks with deadlines or time constraints. Finally, tackle the less important tasks. If you aren't able to get to everything on your list, then figure out what you can delegate or change."</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ryan went on to explain that when a entrepreneur does EVERYTHING, they are actually hindering their business' growth because they are wasting time and energy on areas that are not their expertise. For example, an amateur attempting to create a website can waste a lot of time on research and potentially make costly mistakes that could be avoided by hiring an experienced web designer that can achieve beautiful, cost-effective results in less time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Look into ways to delegate and use your time efficiently; this may mean hiring a cleaning service, contracting a graphic designer for your recital visuals, or ordering from a meal delivery service. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffJgf_j73V0/WQirM4atU-I/AAAAAAAACAU/yG5LQwr2_SQG6hgdQzmg9tftcW3k7oJdwCLcB/s1600/20170502_113806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffJgf_j73V0/WQirM4atU-I/AAAAAAAACAU/yG5LQwr2_SQG6hgdQzmg9tftcW3k7oJdwCLcB/s400/20170502_113806.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My bullet journal</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Use your planner (digital or analog) to help you keep track of everything and prioritize important tasks. This year, I've been using a </span><a href="http://bulletjournal.com/" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">bullet journal</a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"> to help me stay on task in a simple and effective way. I have noticed a drastic change in focus and accomplishments.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Respect your health.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Include time in your schedule to eat regularly; bonus points if your meals are healthy! Remember to exercise, stay hydrated, and turn off your phone and think of something other than your studio/business. Better health -- better performance!</span><br />
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<br />Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-36711484865244870162017-04-11T20:48:00.002-04:002017-04-11T20:48:57.339-04:00Reblog: Montessori Piano Teacher<span style="font-size: large;">Today's post comes from <a href="https://montessoripianoteacher.wordpress.com/2017/02/05/montessori-piano-teacher-4/" target="_blank">Montessori Piano Teacher</a>. I've been following Laura on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lauraspianostudio1614/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for a while now, and was thrilled when she started her blog at the beginning of the year. The following post is one of my favorites!</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bWiBEh2IOYI/WO14_l8JWGI/AAAAAAAAB3I/_Zu6-07vXo8UkpZjX4a_p5J-aNvyoI1AgCLcB/s1600/MontessoriPianoTeacher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bWiBEh2IOYI/WO14_l8JWGI/AAAAAAAAB3I/_Zu6-07vXo8UkpZjX4a_p5J-aNvyoI1AgCLcB/s400/MontessoriPianoTeacher.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: underline;">What Parents need to Know about Piano Practice</span></h2>
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I know I said I would introduce you to some of my activities I use in lessons, but first since it is the start of the school year, I think this topic is an important one.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Your Child will need help</strong></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Up until about age 11 your child will need hands-on help with their practice.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Your help with practice will make a difference to your child’s progress.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Go through practice notes with your child and assist them where they need help.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Ask your child what their favourite piece is and to play it first (it is important to start the practice session off with something they can play on their own).</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">If you think your child is ready to practice with not as much supervision, stay close by and listen, even if you are in another room. If something doesn’t sound right go and ask your child to play that part again (while you sit and listen).</li>
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<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Organise a Practice Routine</strong></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Help your child organise their practice time. Practice needs to be part of your everyday routine (it is like brushing your teeth!). It needs to be done!</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Set a practice time each day. It might be before school or after school after they have had their afternoon tea.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Shorter practice sessions to start with and gradually increase them until they are practicing around 30mins a day.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Practice directly after a lesson. Your child will remember what is expected from their lesson if they practice after their lesson.</li>
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<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Encourage your child</strong></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Encourage your child to practice. Give them a choice would you like to dry the dishes or practice the piano.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Attend your child’s piano concerts.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Invite friends and family over to listen to your child play.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Put aside some time to sit down and listen to them practice, giving them your full attention.</li>
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<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Your child needs a piano that is enjoyable to play</strong></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Buy your child a quality instrument that gives your child the ability to make beautiful sounds (not a toy piano from the toy department). Go to your local music store.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">If you are unsure with what to buy, ask your child’s teacher (there will be some great affordable options).</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Your child will progress a lot more if they are practicing on a quality instrument.</li>
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<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Provide a positive practice environment with no distractions </strong></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Avoid practicing the day before or on the day of their lesson.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Stick to the practice routine.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Place the piano in a room that is central without distractions (turn off the tv, occupy younger siblings).</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Try to avoid tucking the piano away in its own room. You and your child are most likely to forget about practicing if the piano is not seen everyday.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Help your child to decorate the piano area. They might like to play their favourite toy on top of the piano or display a picture they have drawn on the wall next to the piano (It is important to help your child make the piano area their own space, so it draws them to practice).</li>
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<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Communicate with the teacher</strong></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">If you are unsure about what the teacher has written for practice, ask!</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">In order for your child to progress there needs to be a teacher, parent, student communication triangle.</li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Check in how lessons are going with your child’s teacher.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Ask for help if your child is finding something difficult at home.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;">Let the teacher know when practice weeks have gone extremely well (or not so well).</li>
</ul>
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I hope you all enjoyed this post. Next time I think I will introduce some of my activities. Happy reading.</div>
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Laura</div>
</span></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-85225733671469065242017-04-03T00:42:00.000-04:002017-04-03T11:05:11.565-04:00Upbeat Piano Teacher Webinars - Released TODAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gCDR7YxPcNQ/WN297EQQNUI/AAAAAAAAByQ/OY2hplTRUiAemvbbPt-AqdPtWxklIfesQCLcB/s400/preschoolbig.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm very pleased to announce that the new <a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6">Upbeat Piano Teachers</a> webinars, <a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6">Engaging with Teens</a> and <a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6">Playing with Preschoolers</a> are officially launching today, Monday, April 3rd! They are offering a fantastic special of $5 off as part of their launch special! Use code SAVE5 at checkout (coupon good through Monday, April 17th). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">BONUS: They're doing a random drawing giveaway for 5 free <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/waay-music-theory-for-songwriting/id974357313?mt=8">Waay app</a> codes and 2 hard copies of the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Young-Musicians-Guide-Songwriting-Create/dp/061591571X">The Young Musician's Guide to Songwriting</a> to the teachers who sign up during the first three days!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As part of <a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6">Playing with Preschoolers</a>, you'll get my interview about Creative Ideas for Preschoolers and Setting Your Preschool Lesson Rates, and I've included a freebie: <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Middle-C-I-See-2578159">Middle C I See</a>! There are 6 hours of interviews, bonus resources, and lots of creative ideas for activities from the other guest experts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've learned so much from Upbeat Piano Teachers previous webinars, and highly recommend these for professional development and growth as a teacher. Check it out <a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6" target="_blank">here</a>!</span></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-52067596517913712502017-04-01T22:55:00.001-04:002017-04-03T10:22:14.712-04:00What to Expect at Your Child's First Preschool Piano Lesson?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VD8FIv_0C1U/WOBOioPunYI/AAAAAAAABzE/WPJMVe2IvdIoho0cYbIyVRTYupRQRDxlQCLcB/s1600/20%2525%2Bof%2Bkids%2Blearn%2Bto%2Bplay%2Bmusic.70%2525%2Bof%2Badults%2Bwish%2Bthey%2Bhad.%2B%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VD8FIv_0C1U/WOBOioPunYI/AAAAAAAABzE/WPJMVe2IvdIoho0cYbIyVRTYupRQRDxlQCLcB/s640/20%2525%2Bof%2Bkids%2Blearn%2Bto%2Bplay%2Bmusic.70%2525%2Bof%2Badults%2Bwish%2Bthey%2Bhad.%2B%25282%2529.png" width="424" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You've just enrolled your preschooler into private piano lessons! You and your child's teacher were able to find a time that worked for both of you. The invoice is paid, and soon, you'll be attending the very first lesson. What should you expect? How can you best prepare for that important first lesson?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>BENEFITS</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you've enrolled your child in private piano lessons, you are probably already aware of the many benefits of studying music. Piano lessons and music study can, at the very least,</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Increase your child's attention span</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Improve your child's language abilities and introduce them other languages, such as Italian, French, and German</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Boost his/her self-confidence</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Develop the capacity for musical expression</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lay the foundation for learning and music appreciation</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>BEFORE THE LESSON</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How can you prepare your child for the lesson?</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Explore your piano/keyboard at home; point out that some keys are black and some are white. Help your child find the groups of 2 and 3 black keys</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sing and listen to a variety of songs and music at home, in the car, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Visualize the upcoming piano lesson with your child and talk about what to expect.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Make sure that your child is well-rested, fed, and healthy for the first lesson.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Trim your child's fingernails and have them wash their hands before the lesson.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If your child's teacher allows it, sit in on the lesson and take notes/videos so that you can help your child at home between lessons.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Practice identifying and naming the letters of the music alphabet (A, B, C, D, E, F, G)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't rush to the lesson! Rushing may make your child feel anxious. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>THE FIRST LESSON</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preschoolers learn best through play. Because of this, excellent preschool piano lessons are centered around multi-sensory and educational activities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On average, a child's attention span matches their age in minutes, so an average 3 year old should be able to stay focused on one activity for 3 full minutes, a four year old for 4 minutes, and so on. When your 3 year old is enrolled into a 30 minute piano class, especially at the first lessons, there will be multiple activities to take part in that appeal to the child's individual learning style. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I teach a private preschool piano lesson, I follow a structured lesson routine (with some flexibility to fit each individual child's needs and learning style) to help children feel secure. I believe it is important to create an engaging, encouraging, and playful environment for this age group. Keeping children engaged is essential to maintaining their attention and creating an educational environment, so I plan a lot of activities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is an example of a private preschool piano lesson in my studio:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jW0J3W45KQA/WOBUaG-kyMI/AAAAAAAABzc/KYJ6uuoHjZk6sS7clbWXEqYdwiQobfPtACLcB/s1600/Yoga%2BPretzels.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jW0J3W45KQA/WOBUaG-kyMI/AAAAAAAABzc/KYJ6uuoHjZk6sS7clbWXEqYdwiQobfPtACLcB/s400/Yoga%2BPretzels.jpeg" width="297" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://www.amazon.com/Yoga-Pretzels-Cards-Tara-Guber/dp/190523604</span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Technical Activities</span></i></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gross Motor Skill Activities, such as these preschooler-approved <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Yoga-Pretzels-Cards-Tara-Guber/dp/1905236042">Yoga Pretzels</a>!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fine motor exercises (such as exercises from <a href="http://www.irinagorin.com/product/tales-of-a-musical-journey-book-1-2/">Irina Gorin's Tales of a Musical Journey</a>, <a href="http://www.ihre-noten-online.com/Hello-piano-Book-1-incl-2-CDs-English-version">Irina Mints' Hello Piano</a>, <a href="http://wunderkeys.com/">Wunderkeys</a> and <a href="https://www.kiddykeys.com/">KiddyKeys</a> fingerplays)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Learning about and practicing good hand position with a <a href="https://masterpiece-music.com/products/lady-bug-practice-hand-shape-molder">ladybug</a> as we find the groups of two black keys and three black keys.</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bS90vXR-vtY/WOBn8WiIeaI/AAAAAAAABz0/39lChnWniyA_O0VPuP-GM5sGsiyol382wCLcB/s1600/Hello_piano_00-1_engl_Seite_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bS90vXR-vtY/WOBn8WiIeaI/AAAAAAAABz0/39lChnWniyA_O0VPuP-GM5sGsiyol382wCLcB/s400/Hello_piano_00-1_engl_Seite_01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Piano Repertoire and Exploration</span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I love to teach motivating and fun music as much as possible! Here are books/collections that I frequently order for preschoolers: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ihre-noten-online.com/Hello-piano-Book-1-incl-2-CDs-English-version">Hello Piano</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/">My First Piano Trip to London</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pauladreyer.com/book">Little Gems for Piano by Paula Dreyer</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.susanparadis.com/">Susan Paradis</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.irinagorin.com/product/tales-of-a-musical-journey-book-1-2/">Tales of a Musical Journey</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pianosafari.com/">Piano Safari</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://pianopronto.com/method-books/roadtrip-series/">Roadtrip!</a></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Theory</span></i></b><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Music Alphabet Song from <a href="https://pianoadventures.com/myfirst/">My First Piano Adventures</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.kiddykeys.com/">KiddyKeys</a> Stories, Coloring Pages,Cloth Keyboard Games, selected to match lesson objective</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Keyboard topography with these adorable <a href="http://anwo.com/">animals</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Apps such as <a href="http://musicforlittlemozarts.com/app/index.htm">Music for Little Mozarts</a>, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/easy-music-give-kids-an-ear-for-music/id991897864?mt=8">Easy Music</a>, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/rhythm-cat-pro-learn-to-read-music/id502479679?mt=8">Rhythm Cat Pro</a>, and <a href="http://www.noterushapp.com/">Note Rush</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Board Games, such as <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snakes-Ladders-Piano-Game-For-Absolute-Beginners-2715213">Snakes and Ladders from Ellamentary Piano</a></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Creative Activities </span></i></b><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rhythm instrument free play</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.giamusic.com/music_education/johnfeierabend-main-first-steps-preschool-and-beyond.cfm"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">John Feierabend Songs and Activities</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Music Themed Books (Check out my post about this <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/2017/01/how-to-encourage-your-preschoolers.html">here</a>!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Composing with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Battat-68648AM-Piccolo-Carousel-Bells/dp/B0075ILWG6">bell carousel</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Improvising with <a href="https://www.innermusician.com/">Play a Story from Innermusician </a></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>WHAT ARE THEY ACTUALLY LEARNING?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Even though the lessons may look like play time, your child is actually learning a lot! They are:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Developing a sense of rhythm, and once they are comfortable hearing and recognizing long and short sounds, learning to notate and read musical notation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Expanding their language and communication skills</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Learning how to improvise and create music</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Developing the ability to recognize patterns</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Reinforcing fine and gross motor skills</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ear training and echo singing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Learning to play the piano!</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>AFTER THE LESSON</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Review the lesson at home and dedicate some time to practice with your child every day. Try to keep your time spent at the piano together happy, playful, and as low-stress as possible to encourage your child to continue to love music. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/p/preschool/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6" target="_blank"><img alt="Test" border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gzqu7RU1njA/WOHSQ9EwPhI/AAAAAAAAB0M/aGjuna8yqwY5C5XcRFBTCAqoYE6y_cvKQCLcB/s320/Webinar%2BInfo.png" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/p/preschool/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6" target="_blank"><br /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you teach preschool piano and are looking for more ideas and inspiration, be sure to check out <a href="http://upbeatpianoteachers.com/?affcode=16250_1444607195c6d6">Upbeat Piano Teachers Playing with Preschoolers Webinar!</a></span><br />
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-56447374164373224822017-03-31T16:07:00.000-04:002017-03-31T16:07:19.524-04:00TpT April Fools Day Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p2URljcmpA8/WN60emz8jwI/AAAAAAAAByo/uSWcQ2KKMmktc8NYPetikRS-soi2yFccACLcB/s1600/17554267_10212655049082126_4766926273794301271_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p2URljcmpA8/WN60emz8jwI/AAAAAAAAByo/uSWcQ2KKMmktc8NYPetikRS-soi2yFccACLcB/s400/17554267_10212655049082126_4766926273794301271_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Middle-C-I-See-2578159">Middle C, I See!</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Great-Chocolate-Box-Competition-Notes-Piano-Finger-Number-Recognition-3021218">The Great Chocolate Box Competition</a> will be marked down to just $1.04 on April 1st-April 2nd.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Be sure to search <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Woods-Piano-Studio">Teachers Pay Teachers</a> for the hashtag <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">#fooledyou</span></b> for other resources marked down to only $1.04!</span></div>
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<br />Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-90405860308528435632017-03-27T20:53:00.000-04:002017-03-27T21:08:27.900-04:00Preschool Piano Palooza<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFe2b5PV1Js/WNmz1Z31aMI/AAAAAAAABxk/QSOHcFd9nnI7663Q0iA0Xbfq_2KgXnhvwCLcB/s1600/Bedtime.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFe2b5PV1Js/WNmz1Z31aMI/AAAAAAAABxk/QSOHcFd9nnI7663Q0iA0Xbfq_2KgXnhvwCLcB/s400/Bedtime.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You're invited to come to our Preschool Piano Palooza! Watch your 3-5 year old play a real song on the piano, enjoy spring themed games, make a rhythm instrument, and explore music through singing, apps, and more in this <b>FREE</b> 30 minute class. This is a fun kickoff to our <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/p/kiddykeys.html">KiddyKeys</a> program!</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Date:</b> Monday, May 8th at 10:00am or 6:00pm (your choice)</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Location:</b> Woods Piano Studio</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Space is limited!</u> Register online <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/p/blog-page_55.html">here</a> (put "Palooza" in the skill level slot) by April 24th to reserve your spot! Looking forward to seeing you there!</span></div>
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-58621274299365143732017-03-19T17:00:00.000-04:002017-03-19T17:00:31.666-04:00Why Are Recitals Important?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tgQJe1mv1A8/WM7sWa_n4MI/AAAAAAAABvI/ZwofT5AihucPeW9zuBLZ-poTZdhuiTUgQCEw/s1600/IMG_20141115_100304_556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tgQJe1mv1A8/WM7sWa_n4MI/AAAAAAAABvI/ZwofT5AihucPeW9zuBLZ-poTZdhuiTUgQCEw/s400/IMG_20141115_100304_556.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A pipe organ that I played in 2015</i></td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />You
should play with real musicians; the best music comes from real people
interacting with each other.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">– John Fogerty<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Learning to play a musical instrument is
traditionally a solitary pursuit. Students attend weekly one-on-one lessons
with their teacher, and then return home to practice alone or with a limited
audience of family and close friends. Public recitals are a great way to expand the
musical vision of students and can greatly benefit both the student and the
teacher.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Recitals are a vital part of authentic
training towards musicianship. Any type of performance, no matter how large or
small, and no matter how advanced or new the performer, is an emotional and raw
experience for everyone involved. Professional musicians share their art; they
play with others and for others, and there is no better training for this than
live performance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Playing in front of others takes great
courage. <b>A student participating in such an event has a chance to shine and may
experience a boost of confidence when they perform a piece in front of their
peers, friends, and family.</b> They learn how to successfully set and
achieve tangible performance goals. They develop important aspects of their
character—discipline, commitment, and kindness as they support one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>As students become adept performers, they also grow to appreciate and recognize this skill in others.</b> This is a very important (and often overlooked) element to the continued support of music
education and professional musicians. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By now, the benefits of recitals for
students have been established; what are the benefits for teachers? <b>Private
music teachers that offer recitals build their studio community</b>; students are given the opportunity to support and motivate one another. </span><span style="font-family: Eurostile, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This facet of cooperative learning leads
to increased studio retention, motivation, and growth. It has also been proven that students tend to retain more information in group settings. In </span><u style="font-family: Eurostile, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tools-Teaching-Barbara-Gross-Davis/dp/0787965677">Tools forTeaching</a></u><span style="font-family: Eurostile, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">, Barbara Gross Davis writes, “Researchers report that, regardless
of the subject matter, students working in small groups tend to learn more of
what is taught and retain it longer than when the same content is presented in
other instructional formats.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Eurostile",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Recitals are also great for business. <b>When
recitals become a regular part of a studio’s curriculum, it becomes a place
where music <i>happens</i>, and students and
their families will be so excited to spread the word about it. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Eurostile, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">These are big events, and can be a bit
daunting at first. In the upcoming posts, I’ll provide some how-to tips to help
you plan and host a successful recital that your students will talk about for
years to come!</span></div>
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-17616373564331155822017-03-13T00:06:00.001-04:002019-03-06T08:45:13.113-05:005 Free Activities and Games for St. Patrick's Day<span style="font-size: large;">St. Patrick's Day is a huge celebration of Irish culture here in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In a brief travel article, <b><a href="https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/the-best-us-city-for-st-patrick-s-day-parties-pittsburgh-boston-and-davenport-top-niche-s-list"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Chloe Pantazi</span></a> </b>wrote, </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With 13.5% of the population identifying as Irish, bars <i>everywhere</i>, and a parade that dates back to 1869, the Steel City is as close to Dublin anyone's gonna get in the US.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">I kept this in mind as I searched for some activities/games to use with my younger students in my studio this week. After we've completed theory assignments, learning and reviewing pieces, and technical exercises in the lesson, only a few minutes are left for a game. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every teacher has their own philosophy on the use of games during a piano lesson. I personally believe that young children learn best through play and that <i>finishing each lesson with a<b> lighthearted</b> and <b>fun</b> activity makes all the difference in how they feel about their piano lessons each week. </i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gA4lh3EJLYc/WMYPQjgff3I/AAAAAAAABsY/7Cup7QkkN3EYjji6rbMcNhXUiIIwdj0UACLcB/s1600/StPatricksDay-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gA4lh3EJLYc/WMYPQjgff3I/AAAAAAAABsY/7Cup7QkkN3EYjji6rbMcNhXUiIIwdj0UACLcB/s400/StPatricksDay-300x300.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.susanparadis.com</td></tr>
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<b> </b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://susanparadis.com/wp_susan/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/StPatricksComposing.pdf" style="color: #6aa84f; font-weight: bold;">St. Patrick's Day Composing Activity</a><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b> from </b></span><a href="http://www.susanparadis.com/" style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Susan Paradis</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have your students complete<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> <a href="https://susanparadis.com/wp_susan/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/StPatricksComposing.pdf"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">this</span></a></span> at home, perhaps using their assigned scale to establish a key, and be prepared to play it for you at their next lesson.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nb2xByqyXcM/WMYRK-Drh_I/AAAAAAAABsk/vL6ql4Ho-mYn4JOgGRrdvDiLeejrR7KrwCLcB/s1600/stpatricksdayrhythmgameboard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nb2xByqyXcM/WMYRK-Drh_I/AAAAAAAABsk/vL6ql4Ho-mYn4JOgGRrdvDiLeejrR7KrwCLcB/s400/stpatricksdayrhythmgameboard.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">https://sarasmusicstudio.com</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://sarasmusicstudio.com/2014/03/03/st-patricks-day-rhythm-game/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br />St. Patrick's Day Rhythm Game</span></a> from <a href="https://sarasmusicstudio.com/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Sara's Music Studio</span></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do your students need to review keyboard topography, scales, intervals, and chord progressions? You're in luck! This <a href="https://sarasmusicstudio.com/2014/03/03/st-patricks-day-rhythm-game/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">game</span></a> is an excellent, hands-on resource to help you review important concepts with your students this week and end the lesson in a positive way.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCvY26lM8mo/WMYROKn3XZI/AAAAAAAABso/j2mX_FlI684sJxOb2-GFKlX1o9R9ahFsgCLcB/s1600/484851731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCvY26lM8mo/WMYROKn3XZI/AAAAAAAABso/j2mX_FlI684sJxOb2-GFKlX1o9R9ahFsgCLcB/s400/484851731.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.greensidemusic.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b><a href="http://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/online-store/St-Patricks-Day-Colour-By-Music-p80102903"></a><a href="https://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/product-page/st-patrick-s-day-music-colouring"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">St. Patrick's Day Colour By Music</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/online-store/St-Patricks-Day-Colour-By-Music-p80102903"> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">from </span></a><a href="http://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Greenside Music</span></a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This <a href="https://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/product-page/st-patrick-s-day-music-colouring"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>coloring page</b></span></a> subtlety encourages your students to practice their note reading skills. Hand this out to siblings to work on while they wait for their lesson! Greenside Music also has <a href="https://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/music-games">other St. Patrick's Day games</a> available for sale! </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U7fDoNLfn58/WMYSjOpf2nI/AAAAAAAABs0/DFcA6GJYQxY1ppU0KJthcDgjzdCeim6CQCLcB/s1600/original-2425636-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U7fDoNLfn58/WMYSjOpf2nI/AAAAAAAABs0/DFcA6GJYQxY1ppU0KJthcDgjzdCeim6CQCLcB/s400/original-2425636-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Music-Math-FREE-download-2425636</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Music-Math-FREEBIE-2425636"><b><br /></b></a>
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<b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Music-Math-FREEBIE-2425636"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">St. Patrick's Day Music Math</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Musicteacherresources"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">MusicTeacherResources</span></a></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Music-Math-FREE-download-2425636"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">music math page</span></a> ties in nicely with<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> <a href="https://pianopronto.com/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Piano Pronto method books</span></a>. </span>Use it this week in lieu of or in conjunction with your students' regular theory assignments.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KLuoxMjzPig/WMYSnOjC4nI/AAAAAAAABs4/8S9FSrykP20NXUktuZfLn86UujMmIPYPgCLcB/s1600/St-Paddys-Pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KLuoxMjzPig/WMYSnOjC4nI/AAAAAAAABs4/8S9FSrykP20NXUktuZfLn86UujMmIPYPgCLcB/s400/St-Paddys-Pin.png" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.teachpianotoday.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.teachpianotoday.com/2016/03/06/a-foot-tappin-st-patricks-day-improv-activity-for-your-piano-student/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">St. Patrick's Day Improv</span></a> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">from</span> <a href="http://www.teachpianotoday.com/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">TeachPianoToday</span></a></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Improvising is the ultimate way to help students feel a steady beat, expand their imagination and individual style, and utilize the concepts that they have learned over time.<b> <a href="http://www.teachpianotoday.com/2016/03/06/a-foot-tappin-st-patricks-day-improv-activity-for-your-piano-student/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">A Foot-Tappin’ St. Patrick’s Day Improv Activity For Your Piano Students</span></a></b> makes it easy to improvise with your students!</span><br />
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<br />Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-76755843513237431062017-02-27T00:46:00.003-05:002017-04-03T10:29:51.783-04:00Inspiring Piano Repertoire for Beginners<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are currently around 40 students enrolled for lessons in my studio, and of that number, 90% of them are beginners! The first year of piano is so very important because that is when the foundation of a student's musical education is laid. When students celebrate their first pianoversary in my studio, they typically have been introduced to or have learned the following:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">How to Practice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Piano Posture</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Hand Position</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Healthy Technique</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Keyboard Topography</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Note Reading</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Rhythms and Feeling a Beat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Music History</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Major and Minor Pentascales</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Transposing Simple Melodies</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Music Theory</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Ear Training</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Introduction to Composing and Improvising</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Memorization and Performance Etiquette</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While all of this is being taught at lessons and practiced at home, I believe it is also essential to include supplementary repertoire that is inspiring and motivating. Many of my adult beginners enroll for lessons with specific goals in mind, and can name their favorite musical genres without hesitation. Their personal goals and tastes strongly influence the music that is selected for their lessons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Children, on the other hand, </span><span style="font-size: large;">are still exploring and learning what they personally like and dislike! As time permits, I try to assign supplementary repertoire in a variety of styles as a way to introduce musical genres to my students and emphasize the concepts taught in lessons. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These particular pieces and books are ones that I've taught over and over again because they are so popular with my students, inspire creativity, and boost enthusiasm for weekly lessons. If you don't already own these, I highly recommend adding these fabulous pieces and collection to your students'</span><span style="font-size: large;"> repertoire lists and to your studio library! They are well worth the investment.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://alijammusic.com/shop/piano-solos/black-cat/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R9AIyQuZKvA/WLOwNkJt5MI/AAAAAAAABpU/vWvfEwgkmJEmWXNCrdVZECGGl4ywR3iMgCLcB/s320/Black%2BCat%2BJames%2BL%2BKing%2BIII.png" width="316" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://alijammusic.com/shop/piano-solos/black-cat/" target="_blank">Black Cat by James L King III</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://alijammusic.com/shop/piano-solos/black-cat/"><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>Black Cat by James L King III</b></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When my students finish this piece, they feel accomplished! It is an excellent piece for building articulation awareness, demonstrating dynamics, and reading and playing flats.</span></div>
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<a href="https://pianopronto.com/sheet-music/pop-sheet-music/smooth-sailing/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_W-nn2hLnk/WOJcPgdOOOI/AAAAAAAAB0k/HBiaA0pabAQXw-rIIASz1XNI6g_fDVatwCLcB/s320/Smooth%2BSailing%2BJennifer%2BEklund.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://pianopronto.com/sheet-music/pop-sheet-music/smooth-sailing/"><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>Smooth Sailing by Jennifer Eklund</b></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This piece is perfect for reiterating concepts such as melody in the left hand, keeping a steady beat, legato playing, and overall musicality. My students describe this piece as beautiful, lovely, and soothing.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FGtbTFJp-Ts/WLO0UoA-GQI/AAAAAAAABpw/Ubm5BMvmxo4CKe9a7NCvekrs3pJMgK21gCLcB/s400/COVER-NEW-FRONT-copy-296x211.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/" target="_blank"><br /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/"><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>My Piano Trip to London by Elena Cobb</b></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/">My Piano Trip to London</a> is not just a single piece of music; it is a delightful collection of duets that are perfect for developing beautiful hand position, strengthening the fundamentals of piano pedagogy, and introducing students to blues. These duets are so much fun, that they motivate consistent practice at home.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://pianosafari.com/product/floating-snowflakes/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NW5NKMkvBqg/WLO0qYtH6RI/AAAAAAAABp4/8Tm1-DnQ48wzAH5yHaId3lRQCqjeH54LACLcB/s320/Floating-Cover.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pianosafari.com/product/floating-snowflakes/" target="_blank">Floating Snowflakes by Julie Knerr</a></td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://pianosafari.com/product/floating-snowflakes/"><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;">Floating Snowflakes by Julie Knerr</span></a></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This lovely piece is a favorite during this time of year. I typically teach this piece by rote. Many of my students become inspired to create their own music on the black keys after learning this piece.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/beginning-piano-repertoire-with-cd-sheet-music/19182072?kw=&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=Cj0KEQiAlsrFBRCAxcCB54XElLEBEiQA_ei0DCnGxEC3Lwk8d-tniec7TQ2d8vRKcjFzpsFf7T3N0SUaAgYI8P8HAQ&d=sem_sidecar&d=sem_sidecar&popup=false&popup=false&utm_source=google&mkwid=s|pcrid|86117963782&ac=1&country_code=USA&sc_intid=19182072&scid=scplp19182072" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W0JS8XXtzGM/WLO04FNj0WI/AAAAAAAABp8/m74qHWDaj3AnsplUp4a1uGzsgZrtPVMXACLcB/s320/cover-large_file.png" width="240" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/beginning-piano-repertoire-with-cd-sheet-music/19182072?kw=&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=Cj0KEQiAlsrFBRCAxcCB54XElLEBEiQA_ei0DCnGxEC3Lwk8d-tniec7TQ2d8vRKcjFzpsFf7T3N0SUaAgYI8P8HAQ&d=sem_sidecar&d=sem_sidecar&popup=false&popup=false&utm_source=google&mkwid=s|pcrid|86117963782&ac=1&country_code=USA&sc_intid=19182072&scid=scplp19182072" target="_blank"><br /></a></td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/beginning-piano-repertoire-with-cd-sheet-music/19182072?kw=&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=Cj0KEQiAlsrFBRCAxcCB54XElLEBEiQA_ei0DCnGxEC3Lwk8d-tniec7TQ2d8vRKcjFzpsFf7T3N0SUaAgYI8P8HAQ&d=sem_sidecar&d=sem_sidecar&popup=false&popup=false&utm_source=google&mkwid=s|pcrid|86117963782&ac=1&country_code=USA&sc_intid=19182072&scid=scplp19182072"><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;">Beginning Piano Repertoire by Keith Snell</span></a></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This book offers a solid collection of repertoire designed to strengthen note reading, technique, and introduce students to the wonderful world of classical repertoire. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'd love to hear from you about repertoire that inspires your beginning students! Please feel free to comment below or leave links to resources that have motivated your students. </span></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-59130942000595273052017-02-17T23:21:00.003-05:002017-02-17T23:46:02.475-05:00The Great Chocolate Box Competition Game<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Every month, several of my students read </span><a href="http://pianoexplorer.net/kids/" style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Piano Explorer</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. I create an assignment to accompany each issue to help my students become well-rounded musicians as they:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">learn more</span><span style="font-size: large;"> about the featured composer(s) and their role in music history</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">become familiar with different styles and characteristics of music</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">reinforce/review concepts taught in lessons</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">listen to professional pianists performing and modeling musicianship</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This month, I was inspired by another teacher to hold a little challenge; I changed the alarm on my phone to play </span><i style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VELPD6FVylA"><span style="font-size: large;">Carnaval, Op. 9</span></a></i><span style="font-size: large;">, by Schumann, the composer featured in this month's issue of Piano Explorer. The alarm was set to go off at some point during each student's lesson. If they were able to name the piece, they could have a Hershey's chocolate kiss from my candy dish. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most of my students love chocolate, and this, combined with the need to review note reading and recognizing piano finger numbers, inspired a new game! </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnNQEgXNFcM/WKfGaHFK1SI/AAAAAAAABnc/vSTn-dMKe5kXln2hwJ7W9zgji03P9TAswCLcB/s1600/TitlePage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnNQEgXNFcM/WKfGaHFK1SI/AAAAAAAABnc/vSTn-dMKe5kXln2hwJ7W9zgji03P9TAswCLcB/s400/TitlePage.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Great-Chocolate-Box-Competition-Notes-Piano-Finger-Number-Recognition-3021218">The Great Chocolate Box Competition</a> is a musical game for 2 players/teams, designed to strengthen note reading and finger number recognition. Players take turns drawing cards, playing the notes on the piano with the correct finger numbers, and then placing those cards inside their own chocolate box game board. The player that fills their chocolate box first wins the game!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S0Xjkenfb0o/WKfJu2KXXfI/AAAAAAAABnw/aM4xgiYYOTca6ymJ9hJDdKPFqQsH6WBawCLcB/s1600/20170217_230843-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S0Xjkenfb0o/WKfJu2KXXfI/AAAAAAAABnw/aM4xgiYYOTca6ymJ9hJDdKPFqQsH6WBawCLcB/s400/20170217_230843-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Be sure to visit my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Great-Chocolate-Box-Competition-Notes-Piano-Finger-Number-Recognition-3021218">Teachers Pay Teachers store</a> to grab your own copy of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Great-Chocolate-Box-Competition-Notes-Piano-Finger-Number-Recognition-3021218">The Great Chocolate Box Competition Game</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-31215554428243765992017-02-06T01:57:00.002-05:002017-02-06T14:25:20.260-05:00The Life Changing Magic of...an Organized Piano Studio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FBU0-RoOKCU/WJgWHAXgXcI/AAAAAAAABmY/_I1NdXbcyGI9jVmb7VFSJpVDqzT6M3JYQCLcB/s1600/KM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FBU0-RoOKCU/WJgWHAXgXcI/AAAAAAAABmY/_I1NdXbcyGI9jVmb7VFSJpVDqzT6M3JYQCLcB/s400/KM.jpg" width="280" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ever since I read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308">The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up</a> last summer, I've been on a mission to determine what sparks joy for my students and me in the studio. I recently asked other teachers about their KonMari journeys in their classrooms, and received an especially perceptive response from the spouse of a teacher:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>"I come to this with a different point of view. My wife was a teacher who never got rid of anything. Over her 16 year career, she taught several grades in several school districts and amassed a ton of stuff. She stopped teaching and had me put her 50+ file boxes of teacher stuff in the attic for her to use when she returned to teaching. Sadly, she died before she could return to teaching. When I tried to sell, give away, or donate her stuff, I could only unload two boxes of stuff...and this was good stuff. The rest wound up in the dumpster. Do yourself a favor...you will never use that stuff and the stuff you use everyday is sparking joy. Imagine how your principal will love your beautiful KM'd (KonMari) classroom. <b>You will be surrounded by the stuff that will spark joy for you and your students and when beginning of the year and end of the year comes, you can spend your time doing the important stuff rather than taking care of the stuff that doesn't bring anyone any joy.</b> Especially your spouse who has to lug the stuff around."</i></span></blockquote>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6_dIxS3sE0w/WJgVaChLpVI/AAAAAAAABmQ/Q-MwQwSJqNIO6IOeDJILTBxnvOP3tECUgCLcB/s1600/PreK%2Bin%2BProgress.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6_dIxS3sE0w/WJgVaChLpVI/AAAAAAAABmQ/Q-MwQwSJqNIO6IOeDJILTBxnvOP3tECUgCLcB/s400/PreK%2Bin%2BProgress.png" width="250" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">An uncluttered and organized studio has a positive impact on both the teacher and his/her students. Ekanem Ebinne of </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/motherintune/?pnref=lhc" style="font-size: x-large;">Mother in Tune</a><span style="font-size: large;"> emphasized the importance of a tranquil and organized studio setting and the impact it has on student behavior and learning in her book, </span><a href="https://gumroad.com/l/prekpiano" style="font-size: x-large;">Pre-K Piano Progress</a><span style="font-size: large;"> (another book that I read last summer).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Over the past few months, I was attentive to what I was/wasn't using on a regular basis and easily eliminated a lot of excess. When I finally asked myself of each item if it sparked joy, I was left with my piano, a very simple filing system to keep student materials close by, an <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20250719/">office chair</a>, a cup of pencils for students to use, my laptop (<a href="https://login.mymusicstaff.com/Teacher/Default.aspx">My Music Staff</a> is my admin!), printer, and a bin of rhythm instruments. THAT'S IT!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q6xdtMvkKx8/WJgdPytMgvI/AAAAAAAABmw/I0Kn0cxdBz4Jprqneo09EP60DAAOa9hbgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170104_153902_466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q6xdtMvkKx8/WJgdPytMgvI/AAAAAAAABmw/I0Kn0cxdBz4Jprqneo09EP60DAAOa9hbgCLcB/s400/IMG_20170104_153902_466.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As I talked with each student about what they enjoy the most about their piano lessons, I found that there were three facets that repeatedly came up: repertoire, games, and the prize box. Because of their input, I kept all of the games and replenished the prize box. I still need to sort through the filing cabinet of music that is in storage, but I know which music inspires and sparks joy and can simply let the others go.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0k0DCcXOQg/WJgd8Lj5ToI/AAAAAAAABm4/3KOLEG7mpoULiADWTnGZM-5G8vlA5nfjwCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170104_154323_733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0k0DCcXOQg/WJgd8Lj5ToI/AAAAAAAABm4/3KOLEG7mpoULiADWTnGZM-5G8vlA5nfjwCLcB/s400/IMG_20170104_154323_733.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How is this "life changing magic"? I've discovered at least three benefits that come with an organized studio! </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Cleaning is Easier</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> At the beginning of every week, I clean the studio. It is much easier to clean when there is less clutter to move around in the room! </span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Time Saver</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've developed the habit of placing any new books or sheet music that have arrived for specific students in the appropriate lesson day file, which means less time is wasted searching for it later. I also choose one or two games to use in lessons for the week, and store it vertically (as recommended by KonMari) and it has been wonderful to not have to search for it under a pile a desk!</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Less Distraction</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Clutter and excessive amounts of objects are subconsciously/ consciously distracting! Having only the essentials and joy sparking objects in the studio has allowed us to focus on the joy of learning and creating music.</span><br />
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-14677786312040394772017-01-30T14:13:00.001-05:002017-01-30T23:04:52.766-05:003 Ways to Use a Kalimba in a Piano Lesson<span style="font-size: large;">Practice incentives can be so motivating and fun! We haven't had one yet this year, and I've spent quite a bit of time thinking about and searching for a great new practice incentive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another piano teacher named Janie Fowler Downing recently shared a post on Facebook about the practice incentive that she is currently using with her students. The idea originally came from Natasha Vanderlinden. Students have the opportunity to earn hearts with their names on them, and those hearts are then placed in special Valentine themed boxes for each student. The student with the most amount of hearts in their box wins the prize--a heart shaped kalimba! I just had to try this practice incentive with my own spin on it in my studio!</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IF5wXRUXnbw/WI9wxQpc8FI/AAAAAAAABlA/nJVuO13YHG8Ye-8Y_6C2XmLC4e9jizInwCLcB/s1600/Montessori%2BServices%2BKalimba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IF5wXRUXnbw/WI9wxQpc8FI/AAAAAAAABlA/nJVuO13YHG8Ye-8Y_6C2XmLC4e9jizInwCLcB/s320/Montessori%2BServices%2BKalimba.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I found an adorable kalimba (Bantu word meaning "little music") <a href="http://www.montessoriservices.com/music-movement/instruments/kalimba-thumb-piano">here</a>. I bought three; one will be the grand prize and the other two will be added to the collection of rhythm instruments that are played during weekly lessons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are three ways that I plan to include the kalimba in piano lessons:</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>#1) Improvising</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I believe that creativity is important to include in every lesson (composing, improvising, accompanying stories with music, and so on). Sometimes students feel nervous about improvising on the piano without written music in front of them. </span><span style="font-size: large;">The kalimba sounds beautiful no matter what keys are played together, and gives students the freedom to just play and feel the music. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We will start with two notes and make different musical patterns with those two notes, and then try it with three until we're finally using every key. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QKDy13Vq40/WI-MyTouA1I/AAAAAAAABlc/Y0A0EFV64v84Z2qyaTbYXBbnoThWPoXEgCLcB/s1600/The%2BSnowy%2BDay.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QKDy13Vq40/WI-MyTouA1I/AAAAAAAABlc/Y0A0EFV64v84Z2qyaTbYXBbnoThWPoXEgCLcB/s400/The%2BSnowy%2BDay.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We will also create soundscapes to accompany stories. I plan to read </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Snowy-Day-Ezra-Jack-Keats/dp/0140501827/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485800899&sr=1-1&keywords=the+snowy+day+by+ezra+jack+keats" style="font-size: x-large;">The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats</a><span style="font-size: large;"> in February</span><span style="font-size: large;">, and we will create music that sets an emotional tone and create sounds for snow, walking slowly in the snow, smiling snowman, angels, sliding down the hill, and so on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some other books that I plan to use in the future are <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Giving-Tree-Shel-Silverstein/dp/0060256656/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485801075&sr=1-1&keywords=the+giving+tree+by+shel+silverstein">The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein</a> (we will create a motif for "and the tree was happy" and play it every time that phrase is read) and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Caps-Sale-Peddler-Monkeys-Business/dp/0064431436/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485801152&sr=1-1&keywords=caps+for+sale">Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina</a> (to accompany the monkeys' "tsz tsz tsz" and create sounds of the caps piled high on the peddler's head and then falling from the tree).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Call and response is another wonderful improvisational activity that is perfect for the kalimba. I will play a motif and the student will respond with either by repeating or by playing a variation of that motif. </span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>#2) Rhythm Exercises </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FhL6uUK2J5c/WI-MetaGbfI/AAAAAAAABlY/aQkV-L0btpwHhklHzeRuQlubjN34jqW6gCLcB/s1600/Traffic%2BJam%2BSessions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FhL6uUK2J5c/WI-MetaGbfI/AAAAAAAABlY/aQkV-L0btpwHhklHzeRuQlubjN34jqW6gCLcB/s400/Traffic%2BJam%2BSessions.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rhythm gives music movement, predictable patterns, and even directs where accents are placed in melody and harmony to make it pleasing to our ears. Rhythm is </span><u style="font-size: x-large;">essential</u><span style="font-size: large;"> to creating and performing music. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I was student teaching in an elementary school, students were taught how to read rhythms and clapped and counted them aloud. I'm so grateful that this fundamental to music is taught in schools; because of this, several of my beginning students come to their first lesson already knowing how to feel a beat and count rhythms. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love to practice reading and feeling rhythms with percussion instruments in weekly piano lessons. Using percussion instruments allows us to step away from pitch and piano keys and just feel the pulse of the music. Typically, we tap out the music from the method book or other repertoire, and sometimes I use <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Traffic-Jams-12-Sessions-for-Body-Percussion-Drums-Rhythm-Instruments-Set-A-2985867?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=All+Dynamic+Links&utm_content=https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Traffic-Jams-12-Sessions-for-Body-Percussion-Drums-Rhythm-Instruments-Set-A-2985867&utm_campaign=favorite_sellers&_bta_tid=100344552276000882034773185439960741236430814792725508496409934059792784020182745277747&_bta_c=h6mi2sb46i8hlmcl6y8mur7wxa8ze">rhythm cards</a>. The kalimba is perfect for this!</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;">#3<b>) Ice Breaker</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instruments help new students feel comfortable and excited to learn about music. It can be very intimidating for a 3 year old to be in a new environment, with a teacher that they do not yet know, while seated at a large instrument with 88 keys!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The kalimba creates soothing and beautiful sounds and can easily fit in a child's lap. Sounds like oceans, waterfalls, or birds singing could be played in the background while we have free play with the kalimba and/or other instruments. It also offers a low-stress way to assess the child's ability to hear and feel rhythm as we introduce ourselves, "My name is Susie" (sol-mi-sol-fa-mi). </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you use a kalimba in your studio, I would love to hear your ideas! Please comment below!</span><br />
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-1369227195468039532017-01-23T22:45:00.002-05:002017-01-25T12:12:48.340-05:00Middle C, I See Give-Away!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BI6O2kNXigU/WIbNnRIXQJI/AAAAAAAABkQ/vGcPXFYJQZkl4GSN8BusttbaGo37Ds3jACLcB/s1600/20170113_150315_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BI6O2kNXigU/WIbNnRIXQJI/AAAAAAAABkQ/vGcPXFYJQZkl4GSN8BusttbaGo37Ds3jACLcB/s400/20170113_150315_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So excited! Middle C, I See has been updated! In an effort to save paper, there are now 6 circular cards per page. The images are also crisper (thanks to Curtis Woods).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In celebration, this game is currently on sale in our Teachers Pay Teachers Store! Click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Middle-C-I-See-2578159">here</a> to grab your own copy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> AND...</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>ENTER THE GIVE-AWAY!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Comment with your favorite composer to be entered to win a PDF of Middle C, I See from Woods Piano Studio! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Winner will be announced at 9:00am on 01/29/2017 EST! :)</span></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-5935034409954664152017-01-22T20:02:00.000-05:002017-01-22T20:42:10.958-05:00How to Encourage Your Preschooler's Musicality, Part 2<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you missed Part 1 of this series, take a moment to check it out <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/2017/01/how-to-encourage-your-preschoolers.html">here!</a> </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Create music with your child.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><b>Musical Benefit: In these free play activities, your child learns the names and how to play a variety of instruments, begins to feel the beat or rhythm of music, learns the letters of the music alphabet, and is introduced to composing music.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Even if you've never played a musical instrument before, you can still create music with your child! Gather up a variety of instruments--shakers, drums, triangles, rhythm sticks, bells, xylophones, tambourines, harmonicas, guiro, castanets--and then turn on some music and improvise! Children appreciate the chance to pick and choose different instruments to play along with upbeat music. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You and your child can even make instruments together! On Facebook, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LearningByStep/">Learning By Step</a> recently shared this useful <a href="http://www.redtedart.com/musical-instrument-crafts-for-kids/">link</a> on DIY instruments. <a href="http://learningbystep.com/">Learning By Step</a> specializes in musical activities for children, so be sure to follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LearningByStep/">Facebook</a> and/or subscribe to their <a href="http://learningbystep.com/">site</a> for even more ideas!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Another fun way to create music with your child is with this bell carousel available at <a href="http://www.target.com/p/b-carousel-bells/-/A-17184267?sid=2100S&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Toys+Shopping_Local&adgroup=SC_Toys&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9005896&gclid=Cj0KEQiAzZHEBRD0ivi9_pDzgYMBEiQAtvxt-N9FWigYJfREzeqZDD0B1qupVbKuL_SGWJ1bptr_WVoaAo608P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds">Target</a>:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Write the individual letters of the music alphabet (A, B, C, D, E, F, G) on small slips of paper. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fold the pieces of paper and put them in a cup. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Draw circles on a piece of paper and prepare watercolor supplies. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have your child randomly select a letter from the cup and find that letter on the bell carousel. Then, paint a circle in a color that matches that bell. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Continue until all the circles are painted and then play the song on the bell carousel. </span></li>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Listen to music with your child.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Musical Benefits: Your child will begin to learn what genres of music he/she likes or dislikes.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Listening to music with your child is one of the easiest ways to encourage his/her musicality. Play something quiet and relaxing right before nap time. Have something fun and upbeat on during playtime. Turn on the radio while you are in your car running errands.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On rainy days, set up a little tent in your living room. Turn on a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Einstein-Bach-Musical-Adventure/dp/B00005YUPO">Baby Einstein</a> DVD (Bach, Mozart, or Beethoven are especially nice) and cozy up with blankets and snacks! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When your preschooler needs to get the wiggles out, turn on some energetic music and use scarves, a parachute, or bounce balls to the music! Or, try a "freeze dance"--dance to the music and stop when the music is paused. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hopefully, these ideas will provide you with a start as you encourage your preschooler's musicality at home! </span><br />
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<br />Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-28890841216069241932017-01-22T20:01:00.000-05:002017-01-22T20:36:27.732-05:00How to Encourage Your Preschooler's Musicality, Part 1<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Preschoolers <i>love</i> music! From language development to learning healthy self-expression, music provides many benefits for preschoolers. Many excellent articles, </span><span style="font-size: large;">such as t</span><span style="font-size: large;">his <a href="http://pianonet.com/all-about-pianos/benefits-of-playing/musicality-from-birth-to-five/">one</a></span>,<span style="font-size: large;"> have been written about the benefits of music for preschoolers</span><span style="font-size: large;">. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of course, there are a myriad of wonderful music/piano classes available specifically for this age group (<a href="https://www.kiddykeys.com/">KiddyKeys</a>, <a href="https://www.musictogether.com/">Music Together</a>, <a href="https://www.letsplaymusicsite.com/">Let's Play Music</a>) but there are also many ways to encourage your preschooler's musicality in your own home!</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Read music-themed books with your preschooler.</b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Musical Benefits: Through story and song, a child learns to sing, is introduced to rhyme and meter, and is inspired to be creative.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are many fabulous music-themed books to read with your preschooler. The following books have been requested over and over again, by my preschool aged (and sometimes older) students and by my own children. </span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wheels-Bus-Sing-Along-Me/dp/0763686484/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485123170&sr=1-5&keywords=the+wheels+on+the+bus+board+book">The Wheels on the Bus: Sing Along With Me!</a> is a fun little board book full of turning wheels, swishing wipers, and bouncing babies! There is also a QR code inside that links to instrumental and vocal renditions of this popular rhyme, but I have never used it; I sing it with my children/students.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Be-Quiet-Mike-Leslie-Patricelli/dp/0763644773/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485124891&sr=1-1&keywords=be+quiet+mike">Be Quiet Mike by Leslie Patricelli</a> is a well-loved favorite in our home. Use small drums to improvise with this story about an energetic little monkey and his beloved drum set.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Alligator-Purse-Nadine-Bernard-Westcott/dp/0316930741/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485125188&sr=1-1&keywords=the+lady+with+the+alligator+purse">The Lady with the Alligator Purse by Nadine Bernard Westcott</a> has adorable illustrations that children absolutely love and it is so simple to sing. Choose words from the book, such as "alligator", "castor oil", and "pizza" and clap the syllables with your child. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Spider-Finger-Puppet-Little-Learners/dp/1445489929">The Itsy Bitsy Spider Finger Puppet Book from Little Learners</a> features the well-known nursery rhyme and an adorable finger puppet that makes this book interactive. My children ask me to sing this to them over and over again; our copy has actually fallen apart!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Noisy-Paint-Box-Kandinskys-Abstract/dp/0307978486/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485125560&sr=1-1&keywords=the+noisy+paint+box">The Noisy Paint Box</a>: The Sounds and Colors of Kandinsky's Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock is the top favorite book in my studio. Read the story, and then turn on some pieces that actually did inspire Kandinsky, such as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMZOumykxXE">Wagner's Lohengin</a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eB5I5iU0OoE">Schoenberg's String Quartet No. 2</a> or other impressionistic music like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvnRC7tSX50">Debussy's Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune</a>. While the music plays, use watercolor paints to create pictures. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dogs-Colorful-Day-Counting-Picture/dp/0142500194/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485126543&sr=1-1&keywords=dog%27s+colorful+day+a+messy+story+about+colors+and+counting">Dog's Colorful Day: A Messy Story About Colors and Counting</a> by Emma Dodd helps preschoolers learn more about colors and counting. Amy from <a href="http://onelittlelibrarian.blogspot.com/2016/01/flannel-friday-colorful-dogs.html">one little librarian</a> has some wonderful activities to accompany this book, including a simple song to sing.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Click <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/2017/01/how-to-encourage-your-preschoolers_81.html">here</a> for Part 2!</span></div>
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<br />Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-40954713632263281672017-01-14T23:42:00.000-05:002017-01-14T23:42:45.771-05:005 Fun Winter Activities for Your Piano Studio<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Beat the winter blues in your piano studio with these five (and mostly free) winter-themed activities and games!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Freebie-Winter-Music-Game-Snowman-Keys-1636297</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Freebie-Winter-Music-Game-Snowman-Keys-1636297" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Snowman Keys</span></a></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Created by <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Piano-With-A-Twist" target="_blank">Piano with a Twist</a> , this game is a perfect way to reinforce keyboard geography. I especially appreciate that it is simple, comes with everything that is needed to play, and requires minimal set up! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you have a moment, check out all of the other fantastic resources that this store offers. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Halloween-Music-Game-Grand-Staff-and-Piano-Keys-1489835">Crazy Pumpkins</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fall-Music-Game-Silly-Apples-1453352">Silly Apples</a>, and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Scales-and-Technique-Musical-Board-Game-1815941">Dragon Scales</a> , and several others have been hugely popular in my studio! There are also other winter themed games that I will be purchasing soon and using in my own studio over the next two months.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQA6qIYGQXw/WHrw0TANtcI/AAAAAAAABgI/QY5AbatlR-c0hX7govGNA6M9m0foarFWwCLcB/s1600/Don%2527t%2BBreak%2Bthe%2BIce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQA6qIYGQXw/WHrw0TANtcI/AAAAAAAABgI/QY5AbatlR-c0hX7govGNA6M9m0foarFWwCLcB/s320/Don%2527t%2BBreak%2Bthe%2BIce.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ariosostudio.com/games--centers.html"><b>Don't Break the Ice</b></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Read more about this entertaining spin on the classic game and find the free PDF on Ms. Mangusso's site, <a href="http://www.ariosostudio.com/">www.ariosostudio.com</a>. I'll be putting one of these together over the weekend! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8ROlDhiTClQ/WHr1XZGznlI/AAAAAAAABgc/K_YRjpNFRWYYcfnWfgPi_h91q7OSUzhlACLcB/s1600/Snowmen%2BFlashcards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8ROlDhiTClQ/WHr1XZGznlI/AAAAAAAABgc/K_YRjpNFRWYYcfnWfgPi_h91q7OSUzhlACLcB/s400/Snowmen%2BFlashcards.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowmen Flashcards (Picture from https://sarasmusicstudio.com/</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sarasmusicstudio.com/2016/12/08/more-fun-with-snowmen-flashcards/"><b>Snowmen Flashcards</b></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wendy Stevens created these adorable <a href="http://composecreate.com/freesnowmanflashcards/">snowmen flashcards</a>. Sara Campbell, a fantastic blogger that I follow, recently shared a <a href="https://sarasmusicstudio.com/2016/12/08/more-fun-with-snowmen-flashcards/">post</a> explaining how she uses these cards in her studio. Her post inspired me to print out these cards, order some sand timers, and give these a try in my studio! Be sure to follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ComposeCreate/?pnref=lhc">Wendy</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sarasmusicstudio/">Sara</a> on Facebook for more brilliant ideas and resources!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zd_-_xdNCik/WHr2C1R8iVI/AAAAAAAABgg/MWnLEV7JaP0oYVDXISIacgxiXVwnaP14QCLcB/s1600/winvervalsblogimage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zd_-_xdNCik/WHr2C1R8iVI/AAAAAAAABgg/MWnLEV7JaP0oYVDXISIacgxiXVwnaP14QCLcB/s400/winvervalsblogimage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teachpianotoday.com/2013/11/06/have-fun-with-wintervals-a-free-piano-teaching-game/"><b>Wintervals</b></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A game that uses mini marshmallows as game markers from Teach Piano Today! Follow this <a href="http://www.teachpianotoday.com/2013/11/06/have-fun-with-wintervals-a-free-piano-teaching-game/">link</a> to grab your own copy and learn how to play--it's super easy and sure to be a hit in your studio!</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZqTQ6oanG0/WHr7HNT7OXI/AAAAAAAABg4/E_IXTpFiea87ss5YmqSB0gfVI44qwNo_wCLcB/s1600/Music-Lesson-for-Wintertime-slider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZqTQ6oanG0/WHr7HNT7OXI/AAAAAAAABg4/E_IXTpFiea87ss5YmqSB0gfVI44qwNo_wCLcB/s400/Music-Lesson-for-Wintertime-slider.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://musicinourhomeschool.com/2015/12/27/music-lesson-for-wintertime-using-the-piano-guys-frozen-vivaldis-winter/"><b>Music Lesson for Wintertime: Using The Piano Guys "Frozen" and Vivaldi's "Winter"</b></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm a major advocate for incorporating listening activities into piano lessons and giving students the opportunity to hear piano repertoire that they may not have ever heard before. I also believe it's essential to listen to/watch other pianists perform to hear various interpretations of the same repertoire, to become inspired, to grow more aware of the elements of music, and much more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gena Mayo generously shared her complete lesson plan on her site, <a href="http://musicinourhomeschool.com/2015/12/27/music-lesson-for-wintertime-using-the-piano-guys-frozen-vivaldis-winter/">MusicInOurHomeschool.com</a>. This could easily be adapted as a brief activity in a piano lesson!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I would love to hear what winter-themed activities, resources, and games you like to use! Please share in the comments!</span><br />
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-11878181805046494302016-12-30T12:27:00.001-05:002016-12-30T12:27:13.317-05:00Teachers Pay Teachers Sale<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a5ze9wa9IEQ/WGaYvXg7JVI/AAAAAAAABfA/u0CZU9elcI0XQ7Csppx7q7zGgykwLWNWwCLcB/s1600/WPS%2BPiano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a5ze9wa9IEQ/WGaYvXg7JVI/AAAAAAAABfA/u0CZU9elcI0XQ7Csppx7q7zGgykwLWNWwCLcB/s400/WPS%2BPiano.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woods Piano Studio - 2016</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Check out our Top 3 Blog Posts from 2016!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">#1 - <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/2015/07/middle-c-i-see.html">Middle C, I See!</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">#2 - <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/%E2%80%A6/week-5-preschool-music-le%E2%80%A6">Week 5 Preschool Music Lesson Plan</a></span></div>
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#3 - <a href="http://www.woodspianostudio.com/2016/09/lucky-leaf-piano-technique-game-bonus.html" target="_blank">Lucky Leaf Piano Technique Game</a></div>
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Grab your own copies of the games at 20% off in our Teachers Pay Teachers store <span class="_47e3 _5mfr" style="line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;" title="smile emoticon"><img alt="" aria-hidden="1" class="img" height="16" src="https://www.facebook.com/images/emoji.php/v6/f4c/1/16/1f642.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /> </span></div>
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<span class="_47e3 _5mfr" style="line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;" title="smile emoticon">S</span>ale ends on January 2nd! </div>
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-33604345331110493872016-11-03T11:58:00.002-04:002016-11-03T11:58:26.337-04:00The Nutcracker Suite Practice Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j4WKplW7bmE/WBtZE5eipEI/AAAAAAAABcE/biAYjKn-YQkiXsLsGDxvUa3v4Q4zw1WygCLcB/s1600/20161029_173231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j4WKplW7bmE/WBtZE5eipEI/AAAAAAAABcE/biAYjKn-YQkiXsLsGDxvUa3v4Q4zw1WygCLcB/s400/20161029_173231.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We officially started our newest studio practice challenge this week! It's centered around The Nutcracker and I'm so excited to share this wonderful story and music with my students. I created a practice record page to help student keep track of their weekly practice goals; at the top of this record, there is a row of walnuts to color as a representation of days spent practicing. The walnuts are worth $0.05 each. As a studio, we'll collect as many walnuts as possible and make a donation to a local food pantry at the end of the challenge.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f58oiXL6Eds/WBtatm45E5I/AAAAAAAABcQ/rRQOCr-E2fslGDlGhO0kuUCVfz2RuIAhACLcB/s1600/20161023_173802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f58oiXL6Eds/WBtatm45E5I/AAAAAAAABcQ/rRQOCr-E2fslGDlGhO0kuUCVfz2RuIAhACLcB/s400/20161023_173802.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are 5 auditions for students to pass each week. This week's audition was called the <i>Corps de Ballet </i>Audition and students that successfully passed it earned a snowflake. The upcoming auditions each have their own icons, and these all will be placed on construction paper ornaments. I do have general guidelines for each audition, but will adapt them for each student as necessary. Once a student has 5 images on their ornament, they win a prize! They will have a choice between an actual nutcracker or a $5.00 gift card to McDonald's. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSDwj3SPGW8/WBtcCF-uvLI/AAAAAAAABcg/LI_xTaGtk80Ibd8teAethus8j_Ul-VY7QCEw/s1600/20161029_173100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSDwj3SPGW8/WBtcCF-uvLI/AAAAAAAABcg/LI_xTaGtk80Ibd8teAethus8j_Ul-VY7QCEw/s400/20161029_173100.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This challenge will focus on technique, note reading, intervals, ear training, a composer study on Tchaikovsky, and much more! I've had a wonderful time putting together activities for this practice challenge. We've already used one of the games that I created! Find your own copy <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Nutcracker-Suite-Tree-Climb-Race-2846634">here!</a> I'll also be updating my Teachers Pay Teachers store with more of the resources I've created, so check back!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graphics by Linda Murray https://myclipartstore.com/</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you're a teacher, I'd love to hear about the practice challenges you're using during this fun holiday season! Leave a comment here or send me a quick message using my contact page :) </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ISpwhiXfTDk/WBtYkWvIrXI/AAAAAAAABcM/IhzNphnLIccSqkRvE0b1jSzXOynfxUgmQCEw/s1600/20161101_195121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ISpwhiXfTDk/WBtYkWvIrXI/AAAAAAAABcM/IhzNphnLIccSqkRvE0b1jSzXOynfxUgmQCEw/s400/20161101_195121.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">https://www.etsy.com/shop/BunniesMadeOfBread<br />These dolls accompany the story perfectly.</td></tr>
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-87940509820483881252016-10-17T13:01:00.000-04:002016-10-17T13:05:02.788-04:00Fall 2016 Piano Recital<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were blessed with a beautiful day for the Fall 2016 Piano Recital! Almost a third of my students were able to participate at this event, which was held at Faith Lutheran Church. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Photography by Joshua Hoffman)</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zdy1K9JLqkA/WAUAMxxzJ1I/AAAAAAAABZw/aMAVOJBiTngfmvjt5rwNLYuoLnwxE-RJQCLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Group_Edited_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zdy1K9JLqkA/WAUAMxxzJ1I/AAAAAAAABZw/aMAVOJBiTngfmvjt5rwNLYuoLnwxE-RJQCLcB/s400/2016_FallRecital_Group_Edited_01.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My students worked very hard over the past several months on fall themed pieces:</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hungry Spider by Jennifer Linn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RVY7jlYoDNg/WAUAnOS4zRI/AAAAAAAABZ4/d-8tpYldObMIP8I3UYp7kTLv7qZgjLj4ACLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Zack_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RVY7jlYoDNg/WAUAnOS4zRI/AAAAAAAABZ4/d-8tpYldObMIP8I3UYp7kTLv7qZgjLj4ACLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Zack_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spooky Tower by Elena Cobb</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater by Susan Paradis</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the Scarecrow by Susan Paradis</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a9sJrr2YTtU/WAUA3gAi3XI/AAAAAAAABaI/WixOZ3wLP-8Flk_O-xsyQdUGIgmC8PVoQCLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Riva_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a9sJrr2YTtU/WAUA3gAi3XI/AAAAAAAABaI/WixOZ3wLP-8Flk_O-xsyQdUGIgmC8PVoQCLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Riva_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monster Talk by Jennifer Linn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MNUiT_7x4HU/WAUA35wNsLI/AAAAAAAABaE/dkJzsw_BkYEKqjS2v46IVTrhYU_aq_5FQCLcB/s1600/_DSC1458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MNUiT_7x4HU/WAUA35wNsLI/AAAAAAAABaE/dkJzsw_BkYEKqjS2v46IVTrhYU_aq_5FQCLcB/s320/_DSC1458.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing with Frankenstein by Nancy Faber</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyLA86uaFw8/WAUA8wHzcTI/AAAAAAAABaM/HoG1uipIFLEHoYNzPPXr4cg1yTVBNQ5eACLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Isabella_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyLA86uaFw8/WAUA8wHzcTI/AAAAAAAABaM/HoG1uipIFLEHoYNzPPXr4cg1yTVBNQ5eACLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Isabella_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trick or Treat Waltz by Gayle Kowalchyk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Perceptive Detective by Carolyn Miller</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PX7ZMWFTSw0/WAUBB3l3OpI/AAAAAAAABaU/xHCT00iN4jc4a4F_5SB6M1p5sDilZBaEwCLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Michaela_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PX7ZMWFTSw0/WAUBB3l3OpI/AAAAAAAABaU/xHCT00iN4jc4a4F_5SB6M1p5sDilZBaEwCLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Michaela_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Night Sounds by Melody Bober</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqHjo4ofWWs/WAUBEqZ8b7I/AAAAAAAABaY/0-JAyLKBr7IpYQs514jW-sSDeT1RMrYhQCLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Josie_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqHjo4ofWWs/WAUBEqZ8b7I/AAAAAAAABaY/0-JAyLKBr7IpYQs514jW-sSDeT1RMrYhQCLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Josie_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midnight Shadows by Martha Mier</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS37WS5LyVM/WAUBHtiRDPI/AAAAAAAABag/xC8knlkftWoIghaFGLkLhCwUHJB7DYjaACLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Harley_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS37WS5LyVM/WAUBHtiRDPI/AAAAAAAABag/xC8knlkftWoIghaFGLkLhCwUHJB7DYjaACLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Harley_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lost It All by Black Veil Brides</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxIMiEdiaw0/WAUBHh2OcNI/AAAAAAAABac/9KEsZl4W09Emi2kfY_q0zur_nrn0yxo1QCLcB/s1600/2016_FallRecital_Ellen_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxIMiEdiaw0/WAUBHh2OcNI/AAAAAAAABac/9KEsZl4W09Emi2kfY_q0zur_nrn0yxo1QCLcB/s320/2016_FallRecital_Ellen_01.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn Rain by Tom Gerou</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Following the program, there were light refreshments, fall themed music games, and medals for each student. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ehQ6z0agT20/WAUDgBA3kJI/AAAAAAAABa4/ze-hsceWet40TGnE3XiL4q2QIlcJXMSmQCEw/s1600/14542445_1102674719787755_7205633406500930468_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ehQ6z0agT20/WAUDgBA3kJI/AAAAAAAABa4/ze-hsceWet40TGnE3XiL4q2QIlcJXMSmQCEw/s320/14542445_1102674719787755_7205633406500930468_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S'more Kits for the fantastic Piano Parents</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzCZo7GQqvQ/WAUDFeFDNwI/AAAAAAAABaw/DlU0dv5aYWsn2qqBhYSB7Ztw0d2BAZ7KgCLcB/s1600/20160919_165413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzCZo7GQqvQ/WAUDFeFDNwI/AAAAAAAABaw/DlU0dv5aYWsn2qqBhYSB7Ztw0d2BAZ7KgCLcB/s320/20160919_165413.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin Medals from Crown Awards</td></tr>
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-63785561602981186652016-09-19T15:07:00.001-04:002016-09-19T17:42:36.978-04:00Lucky Leaf Piano Technique Game & Bonus Freebie!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-opHxSnysoYc/V-A0U56n6XI/AAAAAAAABXw/zQlM0c7IYpMIrN3XpLS7JlOd0BCxIJ-DwCLcB/s1600/20160919_144335_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-opHxSnysoYc/V-A0U56n6XI/AAAAAAAABXw/zQlM0c7IYpMIrN3XpLS7JlOd0BCxIJ-DwCLcB/s400/20160919_144335_HDR.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucky Leaf Piano Technique Game</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over the weekend, I created the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fall-Themed-Beginning-Piano-Technique-Game-2789069">Lucky Leaf Piano Technique Game</a> to review basic piano technique concepts (sitting position at the piano, proper hand posture, finger numbers, relaxed arm/arm weight, curved fingers, etc) in lessons this week. It is suitable for private lessons and group classes. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qv3doNn0CUc/V-A14xOm71I/AAAAAAAABX4/wvesQj_djqAFCOTlVt8q9dPRWp2fVH15gCLcB/s1600/20160919_144449_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qv3doNn0CUc/V-A14xOm71I/AAAAAAAABX4/wvesQj_djqAFCOTlVt8q9dPRWp2fVH15gCLcB/s400/20160919_144449_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">YOU WON!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To play, students draw cards and place corresponding leaves on a tree after they complete the direction on the card. The winner draws the card with the "lucky" green leaf on it.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Fgj-cAAOdI/V-A2EKaAadI/AAAAAAAABX8/phbejfPlKcgD2ZLYc7hfKJIGOBwJSh7sACEw/s1600/20160917_222705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Fgj-cAAOdI/V-A2EKaAadI/AAAAAAAABX8/phbejfPlKcgD2ZLYc7hfKJIGOBwJSh7sACEw/s400/20160917_222705.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This game includes 1 tree game board, 24 playing cards, 12 blank cards to customize as desired, and 24 leaves. I used poster tack to adhere the leaves to the game board (my students LOVE poster tack). </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcpdsBAYmlM/V-A2NumC__I/AAAAAAAABYA/AA7H3hlW5PMdB-vzTGrzQnhx-PBk5YKtQCLcB/s1600/20160918_210536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcpdsBAYmlM/V-A2NumC__I/AAAAAAAABYA/AA7H3hlW5PMdB-vzTGrzQnhx-PBk5YKtQCLcB/s320/20160918_210536.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">To assemble:</span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Print the tree game board, playing cards, and leaves onto cardstock.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Cut out the playing cards and leaves. I cut the leaves out as closely as possible. They could also be printed on transparent paper.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">If desired, print blank cards and write your own directions on them!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Laminate all pieces to extend game life.</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">To play (2-4 players):</span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Set the game board up on the piano's music stand. Cover the keys with the lid to prevent small pieces from falling in between them.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Place leaves in a pile between all players or adhere the leaves with poster tack around the base of the tree prior to the lesson (I chose the latter option).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Shuffle the playing cards and place them face down in a pile.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The youngest player starts, drawing a card from the pile. Player completes the direction on the card and places a leaf that matches the leaf on their playing card onto the tree. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The winner of this game draws the "You Won" card and places the green leaf on the tree.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I played this game with my 2 year old by making simple adaptations. Some examples include:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Wave your left hand!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Wave your right hand!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Clap your hands 4 times!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Make circles with your fingers!</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This game is available in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fall-Themed-Beginning-Piano-Technique-Game-2789069">TeachersPayTeachers Store.</a> Let me know what you think! Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also, check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cat-Themed-Ear-Training-Worksheet-2790214">Freebie Cat Themed Ear Training Worksheet</a>, just in time for fall!</span></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-19642367986012860582016-09-19T14:40:00.001-04:002016-09-19T14:40:57.398-04:00Fall Preschool Piano Palooza Lesson Plan<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--d8lCXwYJjY/V-AoygMRjMI/AAAAAAAABXU/F6yaZzsCpnYMgIbXU-8UESQVoM4oeTTpwCLcB/s1600/20160905_091159_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--d8lCXwYJjY/V-AoygMRjMI/AAAAAAAABXU/F6yaZzsCpnYMgIbXU-8UESQVoM4oeTTpwCLcB/s400/20160905_091159_HDR.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for the Palooza!</td></tr>
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Earlier this month, the studio hosted a Preschool Piano Palooza, a free event where preschoolers could experience a taste of the preschool piano classes offered here. It was wonderful to see so many children, some as young as two, playing their first piece on the piano after just 30 minutes! I'm looking forward to hosting another one in the future!</div>
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I've included the lesson plan in this post, for those of you curious to read more about it. This plan is purposefully multi-sensory and fall themed. One resource that I did use and is not mentioned in this plan was Pumpkin Musical Alphabet Cards from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Freebie-Pumpkin-Musical-Alphabets-2768382">Susan Hong Studio.</a> She posted them the night before the Palooza, and they were so adorable that I just had to include them last minute!</div>
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<b>Resource Links:</b></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.kiddykeys.com/">https://www.kiddykeys.com/</a> This was the curriculum that provided the base for this event. The songs, story book, coloring pages, cloth keyboard, and discs came from here.<br />
<a href="http://www.irinagorin.com/product/tales-of-a-musical-journey-book-1-2/">Tales of a Musical Journey</a> For this particular event, I only used some of the exercises found in Irina's teacher guide. This book is excellent for beginners and teaching proper piano technique.</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Five-Little-Pumpkins-Harper-Growing/dp/0694011770">Five Little Pumpkins Book</a> I created a simple finger play to accompany this book.<br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Getting-to-Know-You-Music-Edition-1363188">Getting to Know You Page</a><br />
<a href="http://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/online-store/!/Autumn-Musicland/p/70342051/category%3D20685617">Autumn Musicland Game</a> From Greenside Music<br />
<a href="http://artfelt.net/warehouse/detail.htm?ProductID=408">Blackbird Puppets</a> These puppets have been a favorite in my studio for almost 2 years now!<br />
<a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/">My First Piano Trip to London</a> Another great resource that I can't imagine being without!<br />
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My students and I love the Music Alphabet Song from My First Piano Adventures (MFPA), so I used the CD for that song only during the Palooza.<br />
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<div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Preschool
Piano Palozza!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sept.
5, 2016<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Materials:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">KiddyKeys & MFPA CD<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">My First Piano Trip to London<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">5 Little Pumpkins Book<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">2 Blackbird Puppets<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Buckets & drumsticks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Cloth keyboard & circles<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Getting to Know You Pages<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Parent Handbooks/Information<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr style="height: 15.75pt; mso-yfti-irow: 4; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="height: 15.75pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Coloring Pages & Markers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="height: 15.75pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 239.4pt;" valign="top" width="319"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Autumn Musicland Game<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Opening:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">KiddyKeys Song <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Getting to Know You Page<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Let’s Say Hi!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Technique: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tales of a Musical Journey (Gross Motor
Skills)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Weeping Willow Exercise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Big Bird Exercise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Windmill Exercise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Floating Arms Exercise (like pool floaties)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5 Little Pumpkins & 2 Little
Blackbirds (Fine Motor Skills)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Read 5 Little Pumpkins Book and complete
finger plays<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2 Little Blackbirds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Theory:</span></b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Music Alphabet, pg. 62 in MFPA with song<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Play Autumn Musicland<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Keyboard Geography: Use cloth keyboard and
mark groups of black keys with circles <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Use Kids Music Piano app to find letters
on keyboard; which black key group is C closest to?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Piece:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Learn and play Royal Guard piece<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -1.0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Creativity:</span></b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Bucket Drum Echoes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Read story/color pictures, if time
permits</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "eurostile" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Conclude
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Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-63602610607524978542016-09-17T23:48:00.002-04:002016-09-19T13:58:09.735-04:00Fall 2016<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oFW_1TJLrfY/V94B62LaUHI/AAAAAAAABVc/_9SC-Uz4zTkKnuv5B2Aajcnq7CFDz3v7gCLcB/s1600/20160905_175239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oFW_1TJLrfY/V94B62LaUHI/AAAAAAAABVc/_9SC-Uz4zTkKnuv5B2Aajcnq7CFDz3v7gCLcB/s400/20160905_175239.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/partydizigns?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Wreath Designer from Etsy</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first day of fall is just around the corner! As each season changes, it seems appropriate to bring out something new in the studio, too. Check out some of the instruments, games, and pieces that are new to us this fall:</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ay5PfIemDWg/V94E01iE-UI/AAAAAAAABVo/mJjngcz38h4TNSZ8YGUNEHAKoBcbrG6bACLcB/s1600/20160904_141304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ay5PfIemDWg/V94E01iE-UI/AAAAAAAABVo/mJjngcz38h4TNSZ8YGUNEHAKoBcbrG6bACLcB/s400/20160904_141304.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Labor Day = SALES! The local Guitar Center was having a fantastic sale. Some beautiful instruments were added to the percussion collection here. Filbert the Frog is already a favorite and loves his new home on the piano.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PlbvKDtgeoM/V94GLXOnWSI/AAAAAAAABV8/Ocs93IxK9hkasCikpWtm5EaSyJjcjtvwwCLcB/s1600/FB_IMG_1474166056207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PlbvKDtgeoM/V94GLXOnWSI/AAAAAAAABV8/Ocs93IxK9hkasCikpWtm5EaSyJjcjtvwwCLcB/s320/FB_IMG_1474166056207.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fall recital is less than a month away, and everyone has been working tirelessly on their pieces! This recital will feature fall themed repertoire. Some of it is pictured above. Pieces not pictured came from <a href="http://www.susanparadis.com/its-october/">Susan Paradis' site</a> and <a href="https://www.elenacobb.com/shop/my-piano-trip-to-london-by-elena-cobb/">Elena Cobb's publishing company.</a> </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XAiaqlrAYtg/V94H7vti2lI/AAAAAAAABWI/qVXRrotqRXgdHL2x88KkH1vzxfAsmXUjwCLcB/s1600/20160905_224000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XAiaqlrAYtg/V94H7vti2lI/AAAAAAAABWI/qVXRrotqRXgdHL2x88KkH1vzxfAsmXUjwCLcB/s400/20160905_224000.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I recently spent a Sunday afternoon assembling some really fun games to use in lessons this fall. Several of them came from the <a href="http://pianogameclub.com/">Piano Game Club</a>, which has been a fantastic resource since I subscribed a few months ago. Here are the names and sources of the others:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.greensidemusic.co.uk/online-store/!/Time-for-Pie-American/p/70305791/category%3D20685617"><span style="font-size: large;">Time for Pie</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Halloween-Music-Game-Grand-Staff-and-Piano-Keys-1489835"><span style="font-size: large;">Crazy Pumpkins</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fall-Music-Game-Silly-Apples-1453352"><span style="font-size: large;">Silly Apples</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZN_V-M7I3Wg/V94MJgX1b7I/AAAAAAAABW0/dwul_lfZ43U8JPY7bDJEQZQDzmK8QbnlgCLcB/s1600/20160917_222705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZN_V-M7I3Wg/V94MJgX1b7I/AAAAAAAABW0/dwul_lfZ43U8JPY7bDJEQZQDzmK8QbnlgCLcB/s400/20160917_222705.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After attending Irina Gorin's inspiring <a href="http://www.irinagorin.com/product/practical-piano-pedagogy-workshop/">Practical Piano Pedagogy Workshop</a> last month, it has become a renewed goal to focus on review and learning of proper piano technique. I put together the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beginning-Piano-Technique-Game-and-Review-2789069">Lucky Leaf Piano Technique Game</a> pictured above to fit the fall theme, review technique with my beginning piano students, and to provide a fun alternative to scales. Also, my students love using poster tack, so I had to include it in this game!</span></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840199364793811517.post-78577272756162492622016-07-29T09:23:00.000-04:002016-07-29T09:23:13.007-04:00Music Hotel: Note Reading and Keyboard Geography Game<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJIQ5W9r_rU/V5tUJYjdnWI/AAAAAAAABSo/y6467gZl8f4OmWTBKvfWIwwIzKrIzRoDgCLcB/s1600/Music%2BHotel%2BGame%2BPic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJIQ5W9r_rU/V5tUJYjdnWI/AAAAAAAABSo/y6467gZl8f4OmWTBKvfWIwwIzKrIzRoDgCLcB/s320/Music%2BHotel%2BGame%2BPic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Music Hotel Game is perfect for beginners that are still learning to read the grand staff. It is designed to further develop an association of the notes that students see on the staff to the keys on the piano. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8c6AmkdYPbg/V5tVsoIcp4I/AAAAAAAABS0/C0soiDJ6HLQ5phnawBs1jaVyBrI7QGMpgCLcB/s1600/Music%2BHotel%2BMice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8c6AmkdYPbg/V5tVsoIcp4I/AAAAAAAABS0/C0soiDJ6HLQ5phnawBs1jaVyBrI7QGMpgCLcB/s320/Music%2BHotel%2BMice.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Two small mice are the game pieces. As players read notes on the grand staff cards, they'll move their mice up and down the "elevator" floors. When they land on specific floors, they'll have the opportunity to explore a room with their mice and have a free pass on their next turn!</div>
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Get your own copy here: <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Music-Hotel-Game-2691927">Music Hotel Game</a></div>
Woods Piano Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07247904582098562662noreply@blogger.com0