by Chris Owenby | Dec 24, 2018 | Christmas Songs, Music History
My wife, Erin, and I recently discussed our favorite Christmas music. Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Nat King Cole are among the top singers we listen to each Christmas. After listening to Sinatra sing several f Christmas arrangements, my wife asked a serious...
by Joseph D'Amico | Dec 18, 2018 | Strategies, system
As we approach the end of the holiday season, now may be a great time to evaluate your finances and plan for the next year. Although we musicians sometimes get stuck in the “starving artist” mentality, no one is forcing us into poverty. While it may be true that most...
by Joseph D'Amico | Dec 4, 2018 | Music Lessons, technology
Since I began teaching lessons many years ago, I have noticed more often students seem to have smartphones, tablets, and computers. In fact, they seem to be getting them at younger and younger ages. These students often have a natural inclination towards technology in...
by April O'Keefe | Nov 27, 2018 | gratitude
Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father and uncle frequently got together to write and record music as I was growing up, and I remember falling asleep to their music being played in the basement for all hours. I have been in love with...
by Chris Owenby | Nov 20, 2018 | Piano Resources
Thanksgiving is a time to sit back and purposefully reflect on the good things in your life. It’s a time to enjoy friends and family, catch up with those you don’t get to see regularly, and reflect on good memories. Thanksgiving is a time to honor those...
by Joseph D'Amico | Nov 13, 2018 | studio, Teaching Tips
The basics of managing a music studio can sometimes seem overwhelming, but a few considerations will make the process more straightforward. On one hand, you want to be fair, flexible and accommodating. On the other, you must look out for yourself because no one else...
by Joseph D'Amico | Nov 6, 2018 | Music Lessons, studio
The studio policy is easily the most important document in any music studio. This document manages expectations, sets boundaries, and helps a private music instructor control their environment. If you are a music teacher without a policy, or maybe you haven’t updated...
by Chris Owenby | Oct 30, 2018 | Practice Strategies, Teaching Tips
Effective practice habits are central to learning the piano and just about every other musical instrument. If appropriately and consistently taught, the wise teacher’s labor of love will help guide students to excellent musicianship. Here are 5 practice habits...