I engage students in fun ways with “Happy Notes” which reward their hard work and allow them to earn prizes for their effort. I encourage practicing in creative ways, sometimes using other musical instruments or marching to “get the beat,” or just playing for Grandparents or their pets! This way they are involved in a fun, enriching experience which helps them understand the concept using different strategies for learning!
Play
I find fun and interesting ways for students to practice or learn a concept. For instance when teaching students how to hold a beat, I might have students march or clap. With young children I might have them step up and down stairs to symbolize moving up and down the piano. I have a variety of instruments, methods or games to engage the learner based on their interests. These methods help students internalize the lessons they are practicing on the piano. My methods encourage different ways to experience the music they are learning. In addition it’s just plain fun too!
Strategy
I use many different styles of teaching to help students learn, whether by using fun ways to imagine the piano keys, creative ways to visualize terminology or telling stories to describe key concepts. I use various methods to help students learn the foundations of music and fundamental theory such as note reading, rhythm, scales, key signatures and chord progressions. We analyze and discuss the music together so they can show me what they know. Different techniques give all types of learners strategies to help them understand the information. We are always working toward goals.
Engage
Each person is unique and what engages one student is a little different from what may engage another. Whether it is the fun of playing various styles of music like classical, pop or children’s favorites or working towards challenging pieces like the “Fur Elise,” I look for ways to help them find their passion in music. I might also have students teach a family member a concept or play them a song. This reinforces what they’ve learned. I work to help students find those elements that enhance their learning process and enrich their lives.
Piano with Mrs R 