Make music learning tangible with Sound Shapes! In this episode, Jacqueline Beckoff dives deep with Luisa Matthynssens, founder of Cadenza Studios and creator of Sound Shapes – revolutionary, magnetic, 3D-printed musical symbols.We explore how these innovative tools bridge the gap between abstract musical notation and the physical act of playing, making concepts like the staff, rhythm, and chords easier to grasp for students of all ages and levels. Louisa shares practical tips and real-world examples from her teaching experience, demonstrating how Sound Shapes can be used for everything from basic note reading to advanced chord inversions and composition.Discover how to incorporate "preparation stage learning," setting the stage for new concepts before they formally appear in method books. Learn how to address common student struggles, and unlock a more engaging, multi-sensory approach to piano pedagogy. If you're looking for ways to make your lessons more interactive and effective, this episode is for you!

You can find the show notes on the Defined Music Teacher Blog

On this episode of the Piano Pedagogy Podcast, Jacqueline Beckoff chats with Molly McCann, founder of HenselPushers, about the remarkable Fanny Hensel. They discuss Hensel's captivating compositions, including "Das Jahr," and explore the challenges she faced as a woman composer in the 19th century. Learn about Hensel Pushers' mission to make her music accessible and the importance of including diverse voices in the classical music canon. Visit henselpushers.org to explore Fanny Hensel's music!

You can find show notes for this episode on the Defined Music Teacher Blog

Tired of New Year's resolutions that fizzle out by February? In this episode of the Pedagogy Podcast, Jacqueline Beckoff introduces "Yearly Themes," a powerful concept borrowed from YouTuber CGP Grey, that can revolutionize the way you and your music students approach growth. Discover how to ditch the pressure of resolutions and embrace a year-long journey of focused improvement, both in your musical skills and your teaching practice.

Check out the show notes on the Defined Music Teacher Blog.