Blog
Using Humor to Correct Errors in the Piano Lesson
The use of humor during a piano lesson relaxes the student, and is helpful in correcting errors. My student Cynthia is studying the first movement of Beethoven’s Sonata in G Major, Op. 14, No. 2. During the last month, she repeatedly played a passage incorrectly at her lessons, shrugging her shoulders and, staring at the ceilingRead more →
A New Way of Practicing Hanon Exercises
I learned to practice Hanon as written in the music. Not only was it boring, but limited in its utility as an exercise to improve technique. Lately I have been experimenting with Hanon exercises, so the the student enjoys practicing them. Our goals include transposing the exercises in different keys, strengthening independence of the fingers,Read more →
Enlarging Piano Music for Easier Study
Enlarging piano music speeds up the learning process and relaxes the body. When my students look at an enlarged copy of their music, their shoulders and neck relax. They are able to play repertoire that would otherwise be too advanced for study. Several years ago, one of my advanced students selected her favorite ChopinRead more →
Teaching the Playing of the Appoggiatura
My approach to teaching the appoggiatura is as follows: Play with a large arm gesture, sliding the finger on the first note (dissonance in mezzo forte) Release the hand and sustain the note with the pedal Play the second note as close to the edge of the key as possible with the forearm and loose wristRead more →
Winter Recital 2012 at the Janove home
Our annual winter recital in the Janove recital room went very well. The students played with fluency, expression, and joy. I was thrilled at the progress each student has made since the recital in the fall of 2011. Students, parents, friends, and some of my colleaugues celebrated with dinner party and a birthday cake afterwards. SeeRead more →