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.

On this episode we're diving deep into the crucial topic of practice - an essential aspect of musicianship that many teachers struggle to teach effectively. We'll explore seven key principles of practice and some practical methods to implement them. Show notes can be found on the Defined Music Teacher Blog

In this episode of the Piano Pedagogy Podcast, Jacqueline delves into the teachings of Richard Chronister, focusing on his eight principles and fallacies in piano pedagogy. Discover how to enhance your teaching methods by understanding common misconceptions and adopting effective strategies that foster deeper understanding and intrinsic motivation in your students. Tune in to gain valuable insights that will transform your approach to piano education.

Show notes for this episode can be found at the ⁠Defined Music Teacher Blog

Join Jacqueline Beckoff and Arianne Lakra as they explore the world of articulations in piano playing. From introducing articulations to young students to handling advanced techniques and overcoming challenges, this episode offers practical insights and personal stories to help music educators refine their teaching methods. You can find show notes for this episode at the ⁠Defined Music Teacher Blog⁠.

In this episode, Jacqueline and Arianne discuss teaching rhythm to students. They touch on Jacqueline's approach to counting which discourages subdivision in favor of big beats as well as more traditional approaches. In addition, the hosts discuss polyrhythms at length, with a surprising discovery about Carol of the Bells.

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