I have always been interested in how we learn. What motivates us? What propels us forward?
As a piano teacher, this is crucial. At some point, every piano student encounters a struggle to stay motivated. There are several factors that will influence if they come out of it: the teacher, their goals, and their motivation.
That said, in my experience, the BIGGEST factor that determines whether students will stick with their piano studies is whether they love the music they are playing!
I grew up immersed in classical music. I studied with acclaimed pianists and received degrees from well-known programs. I have a strong foundation in theory, music history, conducting, orchestration, and of course piano literature that spans several centuries of classical styles.
These days teaching is a HUGE part of my life. Staying relevant to my students, and finding a way to connect the dots between the music they love and the music I hope for them to appreciate is essential. I love it when my students introduce me to their favorite music, and through them, I have expanded my listening to include music of a variety of genres.
In 100 Solos for Piano Prodigies, I draw inspiration from an array of styles that students enjoy in their day-to-day lives, which allows me to write music for young pianists that's relevant and engaging.
As a pianist and composer, I know what audiences love. As a teacher, I know what students love (and what’s important for them to learn!). Each piece was custom-crafted for a student and has been student-tested and student-approved.
These pieces are etudes (studies) for this generation of pianists. I jokingly refer to them as "gummy vitamins" - they're delicious but technically and artistically nutritious. The music challenges and inspires the player simultaneously.
Students love learning (aka practicing) this music. Teachers have written in to share their success stories, and how these solos have transformed students who are on the verge of quitting and turned them into motivated practicers who exceeded even their own highest expectations (much less those of their parents and teachers).
I am excited for YOU to try it!
-Elizabeth
As a piano teacher, this is crucial. At some point, every piano student encounters a struggle to stay motivated. There are several factors that will influence if they come out of it: the teacher, their goals, and their motivation.
That said, in my experience, the BIGGEST factor that determines whether students will stick with their piano studies is whether they love the music they are playing!
I grew up immersed in classical music. I studied with acclaimed pianists and received degrees from well-known programs. I have a strong foundation in theory, music history, conducting, orchestration, and of course piano literature that spans several centuries of classical styles.
These days teaching is a HUGE part of my life. Staying relevant to my students, and finding a way to connect the dots between the music they love and the music I hope for them to appreciate is essential. I love it when my students introduce me to their favorite music, and through them, I have expanded my listening to include music of a variety of genres.
In 100 Solos for Piano Prodigies, I draw inspiration from an array of styles that students enjoy in their day-to-day lives, which allows me to write music for young pianists that's relevant and engaging.
As a pianist and composer, I know what audiences love. As a teacher, I know what students love (and what’s important for them to learn!). Each piece was custom-crafted for a student and has been student-tested and student-approved.
These pieces are etudes (studies) for this generation of pianists. I jokingly refer to them as "gummy vitamins" - they're delicious but technically and artistically nutritious. The music challenges and inspires the player simultaneously.
Students love learning (aka practicing) this music. Teachers have written in to share their success stories, and how these solos have transformed students who are on the verge of quitting and turned them into motivated practicers who exceeded even their own highest expectations (much less those of their parents and teachers).
I am excited for YOU to try it!
-Elizabeth