Afleveringen
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What happens when you bring piano lessons into a prison? Florence Phillips shares how a personal connection to the justice system led her to start a music program inside a Pennsylvania prison. With no template and plenty of obstacles, she built something powerful from scratch. Florence opens up about the messy first class, the transformation that followed, and the impact music had on her students and on herself. This is an episode about resilience, creativity, and what it really means to teach with purpose. Florence shared an overview of her multi-teacher piano studio. How a loved oneâs incarceration opened her eyes to life inside prison. She discovered that there were no music programs post-COVID at a nearby facility. The logistical challenge of not being allowed to bring anything insideânot even a pen or notebook. How she prepared by sending lesson plans in advance and staying flexible. She shared about her first class feeling chaotic, with mixed levels and little structure. How she almost quit, but support from colleagues pushed her to try again. How her second class improved after she set clear goals and expectations. Structuring a routine with solo sharing, group work, and one-on-one help. How clapping and celebration slowly became natural for the group. Florence shared that the music gave the men something to look forward to and feel proud of. She reflected that teaching in prison changed her deeply.
Links Mentioned Florence's website: Florence Phillips Music Florence's Instagram page: @florence_phillips_music Florence's Facebook page: Florence Phillips Music
Today's GuestFlorence Phillips is a pianist and educator based in Chester County, Pennsylvania. She founded her private studio in 2020 and works with a diverse range of studentsâfrom young beginners to advanced adultsâproviding a welcoming, creative, and supportive environment for musical growth.A native of West Chester, Florence is passionate about enriching her community through music. She holds both a Masterâs and Bachelorâs degree in Piano Pedagogy, the former from West Chester University, where she currently serves as an adjunct professor in the Wells School of Music. In addition to her university work, she teaches group piano classes at SCI Phoenix and remains active as a church musician.With over a decade of performance experience, Florence has appeared as a soloist, collaborative pianist, and orchestral performer. Her repertoire includes virtuosic works such as Balakirevâs Islamey, Ravelâs Ondine, and Saint-SaĂ«nsâ Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, which she performed with the WCU Symphony Orchestra.Outside of her musical pursuits, Florence enjoys spending time with her large extended family, exploring her hometown, and traveling with her daughter.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. -
What if the key to reconnecting with your creativity wasnât more disciplineâbut less pressure? In this episode, pianist and writer Rhonda Rizzo invites us to let go of perfectionism and the constant stream of âshouldsâ that often weigh down music teachers and performers. She shares how returning to beloved repertoire, collaborating with composers, and giving herself permission to simply play helped her rediscover joy at the piano. Whether youâre feeling stuck, uninspired, or disconnected from your own playing, Rhondaâs honest reflections and gentle wisdom will remind you that itâs never too late to reclaim the music that moves you. Rhonda shared that sheâs had a multifaceted career as a pianist, writer, teacher, and blogger. How her blog No Dead Guys celebrates the music of living composers and new creative paths. Her deep love for collaborative piano and chamber music, calling it her favorite way to make music. Letting go of perfection and "shoulds". Why returning to her favorite pieces helped reignite her joy and motivation. Importance of choosing performance repertoire based on passion, not pressure or expectations. Why performing new music offers freedom from preconceived interpretations and a chance to âleave the first footprints.â The empowering experience of working directly with composers How collaborative interpretation brings music to life. Last piece of advice: Drop the pressure of âshouldâ and follow the music that brings you joy.
Links Mentioned Rhonda Rizzo's Website: No Dead Guys Rhonda's Book: The Waco Variations Rhonda's YouTube Channel: Rhonda (Ringering) Rizzo
Today's GuestRhonda (Ringering) Rizzo is a writer and a performing and recording pianist. Her novel, The Waco Variations , was released in the summer of 2018, and her numerous articles have appeared in national and international music magazines, including Pianist Magazine, American Music Teacher, Clavier, Piano & Keyboard, and Flute Talk. A specialist in music that borrows from both classical and jazz traditions, Rizzo released four CDs, Made in America, Oregon Impressions: the Piano Music of Dave Deason, 2 to Tango: Music for Piano Duet, and A Spin on It. Recordings can be found on streaming platforms (under the name Rhonda Ringering) and on YouTube. She holds a BA from Walla Walla University and a MM from Boston University and is a passionate advocate of new music and living composers.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. Visit her website at RachelEhring.com Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring Visit her YouTube channel: -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Branding isnât just about pretty colors and a polished logoâitâs about knowing who you serve and how you want to be known. Sara Campbell dives deep into what studio branding really means for independent music teachers and how it shapes the students you attract. From defining your ideal client to writing authentic website copy and using real studio photos, Sara shares practical strategies that help teachers stand out without burning out. If youâve ever struggled to put your teaching vibe into words or want your online presence to reflect the magic happening in your studio, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and next steps. Sara shared an overview of her background and how she helps independent music teachers build sustainable studios through mindset, marketing, and branding strategy. Why branding goes far beyond logos and colors. The importance of identifying your ideal client as the first step in building an authentic brand. Why teachers should clarify their mission, core values, and what transformation they offer students. How niching down doesnât mean excluding everyoneâit means attracting the right students. Advise for teachers to reflect on what kind of students they donât want to teach to better understand their fit. Why your website should reflect your teaching style and personality. She emphasized writing website copy that sounds like your real voice. Why parents care more about the student experience and transformation than your credentials. She warned against generic branding phrases like âall ages and levelsâ without explaining your unique value. Importance of using real photos from your studio over stock images to create a personal feel. Sara recommended investing in branding photo shoots to reflect your teaching in action. Some simple branding updates like refining your homepage copy or swapping one key image.
Podcast Exclusive Freebie: Free Branding Clarity Kickstart - If youâve ever felt stuck writing about your studio â unsure what to say on your website, awkward in social posts, or paralyzed by Canva captions â this free workbook is your first step toward clarity!
Links Mentioned Sara's Website: Savvy Music Studio Sara's Facebook Page: Savvy Music Studio Sara's Instagram Page: @savvymusicstudio
Today's GuestSara Campbell is a business and marketing coach for independent music teachers who want to run thriving studios without losing their minds (or their weekends). Sheâs the founder of Savvy Music Studio, where she helps teachers clarify their offers, streamline their systems, and show up online with confidence. With 20+ years of teaching experience and over a decade of coaching, Sara is known for her strategic brain, casual style, and her ability to make business feel way less overwhelming. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three extremely opinionated cats.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to -
In this solo episode, Iâm doing a mid-year check-in on the seven things I said Iâd take into 2025. From reading more eBooks and simplifying my systems, to experimenting with AI, setting better boundaries, and staying connected with fellow teachers, Iâm sharing whatâs working, what still needs work, and how Iâm navigating it all. If youâve set goals this year and are feeling behind or unsure, youâre not alone. Thereâs still plenty of time to adjust and move forward, with a little momentum and maybe a cinnamon-topped coffee along the way. Rachel shared a mid-year check-in on her â7 Things Iâm Taking Into 2025â January solo episode. She explained how reading eBooks on her phone has helped her make better use of downtime. She highlighted The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins as especially relevant for piano teachers dealing with boundaries. How reading Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten was inspiring and uplifting. The importance of simplifying and automating tasks and using tools like Google Docs. How automation supports her collaborative piano business without losing personal connection. How sheâs been using ChatGPT as a creative assistant while maintaining her personal voice. She noted that AI helps her understand her ideal customer, brainstorm content, and get unstuck. She reported steady progress on her goal to post weekly YouTube videos. The value of connecting with fellow teachers both online and in person. The importance of creativity and experimentation, inspired by a playful coffee shop experience. She shared that setting and honoring personal boundaries remains an ongoing challenge. She reflected on her 2025 word âmomentumâ and encouraged listeners to keep showing up, even when progress feels slow.
Links Mentioned TopMusic Piano Podcast 048: 7 Things Iâm Taking Into 2025 TopMusic Piano Podcast 028: Music and Magic Journals with Tweena Vuong TopMusic AI Podcast
About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. Visit her website at RachelEhring.com Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694 Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music
Thank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if itâs inspired you.If you enjoyed todayâs show,... -
Great teaching doesnât just happenâitâs intentionally nurtured, modeled, and passed on. In this episode, Iâm joined by Megan Desmarais, who shares how she balances running a large, thriving piano studio with mentoring college pedagogy students through hands-on teaching experience. Megan talks about her group/private hybrid model, how she customizes lessons for every student, and why sheâs passionate about teaching all ages, from toddlers to seniors. We also dig into how she uses tools like Easy Notes and the Learning Style Inventory to create engaging, multi-sensory lessons. Whether you're a new or seasoned teacher, Meganâs approach to creative, modern pedagogy will spark fresh ideas for your own studio. Megan shared a brief overview of her background and her music studio. She explained that her pedagogy program fills a gap in teacher training for music majors in her area. How she standardizes teaching methods so student teachers can deliver consistent instruction. How she uses the Waco Keyboarding method to blend group and private teaching. How early teaching experiences and a masterâs in pedagogy shaped her current approach. The importance of adapting teaching methods beyond âhow you were taughtâ. She advised teachers not to treat preschoolers as miniature piano students. How early childhood lessons focus on foundational skills like keyboard geography and coordination. She discussed the Learning Style Inventory, a tool to help teachers understand how students process and retain information. She shared how Easy Notes products like magnetic staff boards support hands-on learning. How she integrates games and group learning into lessons through a hybrid group/private model.
Guest Links Mentioned Megan's Websites: VeryPiano.com & Teach Preschool Music Megan's Instagram Page: @verypiano Megan's Facebook Page: Megan's Piano Lessons & VeryPiano Blog
Todayâs GuestMegan Desmarais is your Piano Teacher North Star. In addition to running a successful piano studio for students ages 1-75, she is also committed to mentoring the next generation of piano teachers through modern, creative piano pedagogy. As a teacher of both students and teachers, she has a knack for finding innovative approaches to piano lessons. She strives to make every lesson a special, one-of-a-kind learning experience for students and equips other teachers with tools, techniques and ideas to do the same.Megan runs verypiano.com and teachpreschoolmusic.com, which are online resource hubs for music teachers. Her Very Piano Shop is full of digital and physical teaching tools, including E-Z Notes products, Piano Progress Pins and other resources. She studied piano at the University of Tulsa and earned a Masters in Piano Pedagogy from Wichita State University. She has extensive training and experience with Preschool Music and Recreational Music Making.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University... -
Today, we are joined by brand and web designer Erica Neubauer shares practical advice for piano teachers looking to create a polished, professional studio brand. With over 15 years of experience, Erica breaks down what makes a strong brandâfrom knowing your story and defining your niche to choosing fonts, colors, and a logo that truly represent you. She explains why consistency matters, how to avoid common DIY mistakes, and what to consider when deciding between a personal name or studio name. Whether you're just starting out or ready to rebrand, Ericaâs insights will help you design a studio brand with clarity and confidence. Erica shared a brief overview of her background as a designer working with creatives, small businesses, and nonprofits. She explained her work helps businesses communicate who they are through visuals. The importance of telling your story was emphasized as the foundation of strong branding. She encouraged teachers to define what makes them unique, not try to appeal to everyone. How clear branding attracts the right students and builds trust. The value of consistency across social media and marketing was emphasized. She warned against using Canva logo templates or Etsy graphics due to copyright issues. Erica explained that logos should be custom and vectorized for clarity and flexibility. Tips for using your signature as a logo and keeping things simple when DIY-ing. She recommended having a website, business cards, and one piece of print collateral. Discussed between using your name or a studio name for your brand. The benefits of hiring a designer to save time and ensure quality.
Guest Links Mentioned Erica's Website: EricaSNeubauer.com Erica's Facebook: Erica Neubauer Graphic Design Erica's Facebook: @ericasneubauer Erica's LinkedIn Page: Erica Neubauer
Todayâs GuestErica Neubauer is a brand and web designer specializing in high-end branding and WordPress websites. She has a Masters in Graphic Design and has over 15 years of experience as a self-employed designer, working with small businesses, solo entrepreneurs and non-profits.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. Visit her website at RachelEhring.com Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694 Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music -
In todayâs episode, Spanish pianist and teacher Juan Cabeza shares how his traditional classical training led him on a journey to redefine piano education through creativity. From discovering the power of pattern-based teaching and improvisation to building a vibrant community of teachers in Madrid, Juan offers a fresh perspective on holistic music learning. He discusses the value of ensemble playing, the inspiration behind his Piano Train Trips series, and the process of creating his online course, Piano Patterns in Harmony. Whether you're looking to rethink your teaching or bring more creativity into your studio, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. Juan shared an overview of his background as a piano teacher and composer from Madrid. The importance of teaching students to play by ear, improvise, compose, and arrange from the start. He reflected on how group teaching pushed him to explore new, more holistic methods. How the idea of âcreate to learnâ inspired him to focus on improvisation and hands-on discovery. He shared that Music Learning Theory (MLT) also influenced his shift toward a more creative approach. How his blog and compositions led to his first books being published by Piano Safari. The benefits of forehand and ensemble playing, including rhythm, flow, and fun He shared about the teacher meetups he hosts in Spain to share ideas and build community. Why playing together helps students listen better, relax, and build confidence on stage. Juan recommended favorite ensemble books like Keyboard Crocodile and Melodic Explorations. He introduced his course, Piano Patterns in Harmony, for learning harmony through improvisation. How pattern-based learning helps students grasp theory and repertoire more quickly.
Guest Links Mentioned Juan's website: Me Gusta El Piano Piano Patterns in Harmony Course Juan's books on Piano Safari Blog Post: Piano Repertoire for 4 or More Hands
Resources Mentioned Forrest Kinney's The Art of Improvising The Pianist's Guide to Historic Improvisation by John Mortensen Paul Harris's Simultaneous Learning Garreth Brookeâs website: Piano Creativity
Todayâs GuestJuan Cabeza is a pianist, pedagogue and composer. He teaches private and group piano students at his studio, in Madrid, where he specializes in students in the elementary and intermediate stages of study. As a result of his research in piano pedagogy, Juan created a blog, megustaelpiano.com. Here he expresses his ideas about teaching and learning piano, provides teaching resources, and suggests interesting piano repertoire. Juan Cabeza is the author of Piano Train Trips, Miniatures and the two Diversions books published by Piano Safari. He has translated into Spanish the Piano Safari Method and Create First by Forrest Kinney. He has also created the online improvisation course Piano Patterns in Harmony, which has been recently nominated for The Art of Piano Education -
In this inspiring episode, Leila Viss shares how nearly 40 years of piano teaching, church musicianship, and personal resilience have shaped her creative voice. She opens up about her journey through trauma, healing, and the power of expressive artsâintroducing tools like her Cupcake Improv Pack and the Creativity Pyramid. From hands-on group pedagogy at MTNA to guiding students from improvisation, Leila encourages teachers to embrace curiosity, let go of perfectionism, and find their own âbliss station.â Whether you're stuck in an improv rut or just need a creative spark, this conversation will leave you energized and ready to reconnect with your musical imagination. Leila shared an overview of her background and her piano teaching journey. The importance of group piano pedagogy, which was a highlight in her MTNA conference experience. She encouraged teachers to attend conferences, a great place for networking and community-building. Why creativity is essential for pianists and all musicians. Leila introduced her Creativity Pyramid model. How curiosity, when balanced between fascination and fear, helps unlock creative potential. The importance of letting go of perfectionism as a step in creative growth and personal exploration. She highlighted a powerful research from Dr. Martha Beck. How music became a grounding and healing force for both her and Carter during their recovery. Leila introduced her creative teaching resource, the Cupcake Improv Pack. Rachel shared how the Cupcake Improv helped her explore fresh musical ideas. The power of naming musical patterns to help students remember and reuse them.
Guest Links Mentioned Leila's website: www.LeilaViss.com Leila's Instagram page: @leilaviss Leila's Facebook page: Leila Viss, 88PK Leila's YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@leilaviss Leila's Book: Found in the Wake: Rising from the Depths of a Devastating Boat Strike Cupcake Improv
Links Mentioned TopCast 409: Using Notion to Organise Your Studio and Life with Amy Chaplin & Joy Morin Beyond Anxiety: Curiosity, Creativity, and Finding Your Life's Purpose by Martha Beck
Todayâs GuestLeila Viss creates imaginative, tech-savvy resources for her in-person and online piano studio and website. She founded Space to Create where she empowers pianists and teachers to connect with their creativity through improvisation, composition, and arranging. A longtime church musician and dynamic speaker, she co-authored Found in the Wake, a memoir of loss and resilience. Viss is Coloradoâs 2024 MTNA Foundation Fellow and a 2025 Frances Clark Center Outstanding Service Recognition Award recipient.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves -
In todayâs episode, weâre chatting with Megan Maxwell and Lani Lammoglia from Little Chords to discuss the world of successful online teaching. With their vast experience in early childhood music education, Megan and Lani share insights on blending digital and physical learning formats to engage young students effectively. They delve into their tech setup, the challenges they faced transitioning online, and how they've managed to cultivate vibrant, interactive music classes. Plus, they discuss their innovative approach to teaching preschoolers online and their newly published children's book designed to make music education fun and accessible. Join us as we explore these topics and more, offering a treasure trove of information for educators looking to optimize their online teaching methods. Megan and Lani shared their extensive backgrounds in music education and early childhood development. The importance of blending digital and physical learning for young students. They recounted the founding of Little Chords, emphasized the impact of online lessons, and their adaptation during the pandemic. The initial challenges and mistakes made in their online teaching journey. Their current successful model, featuring small, interactive classes and monthly masterclasses. Lani discussed the creativity involved in making engaging and effective resources for children. Their approach to making online preschool education effective, emphasizing flexibility and playfulness. Their tech setup, including the use of Zoom, OBS, and Canva for interactive lessons. Lani spoke about their combination of teaching Spanish language and music. The value of small group classes for enhanced student interaction and learning. Their method of gradually introducing piano technique to young students online. They talked about their newly published book for piano students, which integrates playful learning.
Links Mentioned Little Chords Website Little Chords Instagram Page Blog: Quality Online Piano, Keyboard, and Voice Lessons: Studio Technology that's Family Focused
Todayâs GuestWith 20 years experience teaching piano, voice, and early childhood classes, Megan Maxwell combines her Early Childhood Development degree with extensive music studies. She creates interactive resources that blend digital and physical learning for young students. She focuses on the critical developmental years where children's curiosity can be channeled effectively,' Her innovative approach supports hands-on learning without keeping children glued to screens, making music and language education accessible for children, parents, and teachers.Lani Lammoglia combines 14 years of teaching experience with her Early Childhood Psychology background from Venezuela and graduate studies in Flute and Vocal Performance. Beginning her own musical journey at age 5, she understands the value of early music education. 'Teaching is never boring with little kids. She loves meeting children where they are and guiding them to discover the joy in learning. Her innovative resources blend digital and physical elements that enhance online lessons while providing engaging materials for between-session learning, creating an interactive experience that supports children's curiosity without excessive screen time.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and -
Finding time to cook can be a challenge for busy music teachers, but Sarah Kenner has made it her mission to help. As a professional violinist and the creator of The Hungry Musician, she shares practical tips for meal planning, simple recipes, and ways to make cooking more manageable for musicians. In this episode, Sarah discusses how to balance a busy teaching and performing schedule with healthy eating, why meal prep doesnât have to be overwhelming, and how creativity in the kitchen can inspire creativity in music. Whether you love to cook or struggle to find the time, Sarahâs insights will help you nourish both yourself and your music. Sarah shared how she combines her passions for music and cooking. How her journey started when she realized the need for a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. The importance of meal planning and cooking as a way to improve focus, efficiency, and well-being. How musicians can make cooking easier by prepping ingredients in stages throughout the day. Why setting realistic cooking goals and allowing flexibility in meal choices leads to success. Semi-homemade cooking and using pre-prepped ingredients to save time without sacrificing nutrition. How busy music teachers can simplify cooking with one-pot meals and batch cooking techniques. Why meal prepping doesnât have to be done all at once. How quick and easy meals donât have to mean unhealthy choices. The connection between creativity in cooking and creativity in music, and how both require improvisation and problem-solving. How experimenting with ingredients can make simple meals feel elevated and special. Why musicians should embrace cooking as a creative outlet and a way to care for themselves.
Links Mentioned Free download: A Musician's Guide to Cooking in Cut Time at TheHungryMusician.com Sarah's Instagram Page: @hungrymusician Sarah's Tiktok Page: @hungrymusician TopCast 407: The Power of Storytelling with Andrea Dow from Teach Piano Today
Todayâs GuestSarah Kenner is a violinist and culinary content creator based in the NYC area. Specializing in historical performance, she has been hailed as a "fireworks soloist" and regularly performs on baroque violin with renowned groups including The English Concert, Trinity Wall Street, TENET Vocal Artists, Tempesta di Mare, and New York Baroque Incorporated, and made her Lincoln Center solo debut in 2018 with Juilliard415. Other notable appearances include BachFest Leipzig, the Festival Dans les Jardins de William Christie, and on the Academy Award-winning score of the 2019 film, Joker. She holds degrees from Temple University, Manhattan School of Music, and The Juilliard School. For almost 15 years, Sarah has enjoyed creating culinary content for her popular food and recipe blog âThe Hungry Musician.â On this platform, she offers delicious recipes, kitchen tips, and cooking classes with the goal of making cooking more enjoyable and accessible, especially to musicians.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA.... -
In this episode, Cori Belle shares her journey from high school accompanist to accomplished collaborative pianist. She talks about how strong solo skills, sight-reading, and learning by doing shaped her accompanying career. Cori offers practical advice for piano teachers who want to prepare their students for accompanying roles, including the importance of listening, balance, and rhythm. She also discusses building relationships with choir directors, adapting to different instruments and voices, and how duet playing and chord knowledge support ensemble skills. Whether you're new to accompanying or want to strengthen your teaching, Cori brings thoughtful, actionable insights. Cori shared how she started accompanying in high school and quickly fell in love with collaborative playing. She explained how strong solo piano skills supported her growth as an accompanist. The importance of sight-reading and learning on the job. Why collaboration and sharing music stood out in her experience. How foundational skills like balance, phrasing, and steady rhythm are crucial to prepare students for accompanying roles. She suggested exposing students to accompanying through listening and role models. How duet playing helps build ensemble skills. Why sight-reading and chord knowledge prepare students for real accompanying work. Key differences between accompanying singers, wind players, and string players. How strong relationships with choir directors are essential for successful choral accompanying. Cori introduced her digital resources for piano teachers and accompanists.
Links Mentioned Cori's website: CoriBelle.com Cori's YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@Corigirl12 Cori's Instagram page: @coribellepiano
Today's GuestCori Belle is a concert pianist specializing in the fields of collaborative piano and choral music. She is a frequently sought-after collaborator for both vocalists and instrumentalists and maintains a private piano studio in the Seattle area. Cori is the founding artistic director and performing member of Indie Musikhaus house concerts. Her self-recorded and self-produced solo classical album, Commonplace Beauty, received critical acclaim. International Piano called it âa beautifully constructed programme.â Cori is an educator at heart and loves helping other musicians get better at what they do. She creates digital resources for piano teachers and collaborative pianists, offers coaching for choral accompanists, and blogs about creating a life of music around family life.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. Visit her website at RachelEhring.com Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring Visit her YouTube channel: -
Performing on YouTube presents unique challenges and opportunities, and Annique Göttler has embraced both as a classical pianist and content creator. In this episode, she shares how she balances traditional concert performances with digital content creation, the lessons sheâs learned from growing her YouTube channel, and how storytelling and audience engagement play a crucial role in modern musicianship. Annique also reflects on her classical training, the discipline required for success, and why musicians today should embrace online platforms to share their artistry with the world.
Annique shared her journey as a classical pianist and content creator based in Stuttgart, Germany.The impact of traditional Russian-style piano training on her disciplined approach.How she built her career through concerts and social media instead of waiting for opportunities.The importance of organizing her own concerts for greater artistic freedom.How changing teachers at the right time helped her push her skills further.Her education in Stuttgart, including her bachelor's, master's, and concert exam degrees.Studying information science, which introduced her to social media marketing.How COVID-19 led her to start a YouTube channel, which grew unexpectedly.She revealed her viral âOne Minute, 10 Minutes, One Hourâ practice challenge videos.The benefits of live streaming performances.Balancing YouTube content creation with concert preparation.The importance of live streaming as a way to simulate performance pressure.Advice on improving YouTube success, including engaging thumbnails and strong storytelling.Annique encourage more professional musicians to embrace digital platforms to share real expertise.
Links MentionedAnnique's Website: Annique-Piano.comAnnique's YouTube page: Heart of the KeysAnnique's Instagram page: @anniquegoettler
Today's GuestAnnique Göttler was born on August 9th 1995 in Germany. She received her first piano lessons at the music school in Herrenberg at the age of five. In Herrenberg she finished high school while studying at the music school in Stuttgart from 2007 until 2013. After finishing her Bachelor (2017) and Masters degrees (2020) at the Stuttgart University of Music and Performing Arts, she continued studying the concert exam at the same university. Annique has won a number of competitions and has performed on concert stages throughout Europe.
About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
Visit her website at RachelEhring.comVisit her Instagram page: @rachelehringVisit her YouTube channel: -
Musicality is what transforms notes on a page into expressive, engaging performances, yet many music students struggle to develop it naturally. In this solo episode, we're diving into practical strategies for helping students unlock musical expression from the very beginning. From following dynamic markings to using storytelling, visualization, and phrasing techniques, I'm going to share simple yet powerful ways to make every piece more musical. Whether you're working with beginners or advanced students, these tips will help bring their playing to life. Why musicality is one of the most important skills students can learn, preventing robotic performances. Importance of following musical markings like dynamics and ritardandos from the very beginning. How using stories and imagery can help students connect emotionally with the music. How visualizations can also help students with performance anxiety. She recommended practicing musical elements like dynamics and articulation separately from pieces to build awareness. Using sound effect stories as a tool to teach dynamics and articulation in a fun and engaging way. How strategic use of timing can enhance musical phrasing and assist with technical challenges. How singing phrases can help students understand shaping and expression. Importance of teaching texture and helping students differentiate between melody and accompaniment.
Links Mentioned TopMusicPiano Podcast 001: Using Stories in Beginner Piano Lessons Max's Galactic Adventure Sound Effect Piano Story
About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. Visit her website at RachelEhring.com Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694 Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music
Thank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if itâs inspired you.If you enjoyed todayâs show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.TopMusicPro 14-Day Free TrialHeard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, Iâd like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You... -
Composer and piano teacher Chrissy Ricker joins us today to share insights into her creative process, teaching philosophy, and passion for composing engaging music for students of all levels. She discusses how she integrates improvisation into lessons, the inspiration behind her compositions, and the importance of creativity in piano education. Chrissy also introduces her latest publications, shares free resources available for teachers, and offers practical tips for helping students build confidence in their musical expression. Chrissy shared her journey as a pianist, teacher, and composer based in North Carolina. How she started writing music for her students and eventually pursued publishing. She highlighted her extensive catalog of original compositions and arrangements, including video game and film music. The importance of creativity in piano lessons and how it helps students develop musicianship. Some insights on how teachers can integrate improvisation into lessons through small, structured activities. Using storytelling and black-key improvisation to help students gain confidence. The value of repetition in improvisation exercises to build student comfort and skill. Her transition from teaching to full-time composing and how she continues to engage with students through teachers who use her music. Her approach to composing, preferring to start with a strong title for inspiration. Advice on teaching improvisation to adult students, including using backing tracks to ease performance anxiety. She introduced her latest books, including Better Together, a duet collection, and First Rhapsodies and Reveries, designed for expressive elementary-level playing.
Links Mentioned Chrissy Ricker's Website: www.chrissyricker.com Chrissy Ricker's Facebook Page: Chrissy Ricker Music Chrissy Ricker's Instagram Page: @chrissyrickermusic Better Together Songbook First Rhapsodies and Reveries Songbook TopMusic Piano Podcast 013: Using the Piano Pronto Series with Jennifer Eklund
Today's GuestChrissy Ricker is a pianist, teacher, and composer from North Carolina. She holds a Masterâs degree in music with a concentration in piano performance and pedagogy. A Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM), Chrissy enjoys sharing her ideas with other piano teachers. Her articles on piano teaching have been featured in American Music Teacher magazine, and she blogs regularly about piano teaching and composing at her website, chrissyricker.com.A prolific composer and arranger, Chrissy specializes in creating exciting music for piano students of all ages and skill levels. She has published over 40 collections of piano solo and duet music for students that are available from Piano Pronto Publishing and Neil A. Kjos Music Company. Chrissy is also a âSignature Artistâ arranger with Musicnotes.com, where she has a catalog of over 1,000 arrangements, from video game themes to pop songs, for pianists at every level.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of... -
In this episode, composer, percussionist, and handbell director Alex Guebert joins us to share his approach to composition and arranging. He discusses how his love of film scores, progressive rock, and percussive sounds influence his work, as well as the role of improvisation and audiation in his creative process. Alex offers insights on making hymn arrangements more engaging, incorporating composition into lessons, and encouraging students to explore harmonies. He also talks about directing advanced handbell ensembles and co-hosting A Moment of Bach, a podcast exploring the music of J.S. Bach. Alex shared his journey as a composer, percussionist, and church music director. How early exposure to piano, handbells, and a Yamaha synthesizer shaped his musical foundation. How playing by ear and experimenting with harmonies were key to his growth as a composer. His love for percussive sounds, film scores, and progressive rock, which influence his compositions. How improvisation and audiation (hearing music internally) enhance composition skills. Alex's approach to arranging hymns by modifying melody, harmony, and rhythm to create fresh interpretations. The importance of playing by ear and matching pitch as essential skills for young musicians. Using notation software like MuseScore for students and teachers exploring composition. Why handbells are a unique, team-based instrument great for music education. How conducting and arranging for handbells has been a major part of his career. His podcast, A Moment of Bach, where he and his twin brother analyze J.S. Bachâs music in depth. He encouraged teachers to integrate composition and arranging into lessons, making music more interactive and creative.
Links Mentioned A Moment of Bach Podcast Alex Guebert's handbell music published at Hope Publishing
Today's GuestAlex Guebert is a composer, arranger, clinician, percussionist, and organist, and is the Director of Worship and Music at St. Johnâs Lutheran Church in Orange, CA. He directs three advanced-level handbell groups: Cathedral Bells (at St. Johnâs), Concert Handbells at Concordia University Irvine (as an adjunct faculty there), and Zenith (a summer-only 32-person ensemble made up of ringers from all around the world; co-directed by Matthew Compton.)Alexâs award-winning handbell compositions and arrangements have been published and performed nationwide and overseas. His compositional style is a result of his background as a percussionist, his love of film and video game score, and his desire to broaden the horizons of handbell repertoire. Alex holds an M.M. in Music Composition from Cal State Long Beach, where his graduate recital featured a 25-minute work for handbells, strings, and percussion.Alex lives in Orange with his wife Heather, who works for Orange County as a forensic scientist, and their two daughters, Emma Joy and Cora Noelle, who both share their dadâs love of music and their motherâs scientific curiosity about the world!About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you... -
Helping students embrace creativity at the piano can feel overwhelming, but Amie Webster believes improvisation is a skill every student can develop. In this episode, she shares how improvisation builds confidence, enhances musicianship, and makes lessons more engaging at all levels. Amie offers practical strategies for introducing improvisation from the very first lesson, guiding students beyond basic patterns, and helping them explore rhythm, melody, and storytelling through music. She also discusses ways to use improvisation in online lessons, group settings, and even recitals. Whether youâre new to teaching improv or looking for fresh ideas, Amieâs insights will inspire you to bring more creativity into your studio. Amy shared how she transitioned from a solo piano teacher to co-owning Motif Music Studios. How improvisation helps students become active listeners, enhances creativity, and builds confidence. Simple ways to introduce improvisation, including black-key exercises, pedal play, and blues scales. Advice for students to turn personal experiences into musical storytelling for deeper engagement. Methods for expanding beyond beginner improvisation, such as using chord progressions & melodies. How structured experimentation helps students transition from strict note-reading to creative exploration. Using guidelines and small challenges to support students who feel intimidated by improvisation. The value of recording or notating improvisations to build a creative portfolio. Ways to challenge advanced students with historical styles and pop chord progressions. How online teaching can effectively include improvisation through call-and-response and storytelling techniques. How LEGO can be used for ear training, rhythm exercises, and sparking creativity in lessons. Alternative recital ideas to provide creative performance opportunities for students. Her recommended video resources on improvisation, composition, and celebrating student progress. Amieâs personal interests, including reading, puzzles, rollerblading, and skate park adventures with her three boys.
Links Mentioned TopCast Episode 400: Itâs The 10-Year TopCast Anniversary! Motif Music Studios Website Motif Music Studios YouTube Channel Amie's Instagram Page: @coffeewithcomposers
Today's GuestAmie Webster is an enthusiastic piano teacher of 28 years, Mom of 3 busy boys and started Motif Music Studios, a multi-teacher music studio, alongside her husband, Jeff Webster, in 2010. Motif Music Studios is now a collaborative music school with a team of creative, heart-led teachers who are focused on nurturing students in their musical growth and seeing students thrive as their individual strengths are celebrated!As a YouTube creator, Amie also enjoys introducing creative teaching ideas and highlights piano music by contemporary composers. This pursuit has been a fun-filled, life-giving creative pursuit and she hopes it encourages other teachers in their individual teaching journeys as well. Amie is fueled by passion, caffeine and curiosity and is so thankful for the ways music has been woven into her life in so many beautiful ways.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano... -
Expanding from a solo teacher to a multi-teacher studio is a big leap, and Katie Crist knows exactly what it takes to make it work. In this episode, Katie shares how she grew The Music Box from a one-teacher operation to a thriving music school with 25 instructors before successfully selling the business. She dives into the challenges of hiring, financial planning, managing niche instruments, and shifting from teaching to full-time business ownership. Whether youâre looking to scale your studio or plan for an eventual exit, Katieâs insights on leadership, delegation, and sustainable growth will set you on the right path. Katie shared how she built The Music Box, growing it to 25 teachers before selling it. The importance of choosing a teaching space based on cost, lease flexibility, and parking. She highlighted that hiring teachers lowers income at first but adds stability and admin support. Why tuition must cover rent, utilities, supplies, and marketing. She advised hiring an accountant, bookkeeper, and employment attorney for financial stability. Discussion about overhead costs, including events, software, and payment processing fees. How academy teachers gain admin support, professional development, and recital opportunities. Why offering multiple instruments prevents reliance on one specialty and improves staffing flexibility. The challenges of hiring niche instrument teachers, stressing the importance of balancing demand, marketing visibility, and community engagement. She recommended outsourcing bookkeeping and taxes to focus on growth. Her shift from teaching to business and the need for marketing, HR, and legal skills. Katie revealed that she stopped teaching four years before selling to focus on systems and growth. Book recommendation: The E-Myth Revisited to understand the shift to business ownership.
Links Mentioned Katie's Facebook Page Book: The E-myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
Today's GuestMeet Katie Crist: an entrepreneur, performer, and business coach with a talent for creating systems that work and businesses that thrive. Katieâs journey began in classical ballet, training with the Royal Academy of Dance and Patrick Frantz of the Paris Opera Ballet, before transitioning to a successful music career. As a background vocalist for Jessica Simpson, she performed at legendary venues like Madison Square Garden and appeared on shows such as The Late Show with David Letterman and Dancing with the Stars. For over a decade, her voice brought Barbie commercials to life as she recorded jingles for Mattel.In 2012, Katie founded The Music Box in Lafayette, Louisiana, where she built a vibrant music school that became a hub for aspiring musicians. After more than a decade of growth and innovation, she sold the business to Ensemble Performing Arts and shifted her focus to helping other business owners succeed.Today, Katie works with music school entrepreneurs around the world, guiding them through growth, simplifying operations, and strengthening their culture. Known for her creative approach and practical advice, Katie brings valuable insights that resonate with audiences in any industry.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at... -
Lauren Kushins, co-founder of Art Fundamentals and Art & Soul School of Creative & Performing ARTS, shares her wealth of experience in helping music and dance studios integrate art programs that inspire creativity and boost business growth. With over 30 years of experience as an arts educator, Lauren offers actionable insights on launching art classes, scheduling efficiently, and maximizing the use of studio space. She also highlights the value of combining music and art to create meaningful connections, foster student retention, and enhance community engagement. Tune in to discover how adding art can transform your studio and expand your reach! Lauren shared a brief overview of her background and her business, Art Fundamentals. How adding art to music studios benefits families by providing creative options for siblings. Her art curriculum, specifically designed for seamless integration into music and dance studios. The business benefits of adding art classes. How scheduling back-to-back classes for siblings or consecutive lessons increases profitability and enrollment. Why adding art programs diversifies offerings and creates additional revenue streams for schools. Creative opportunities of combining music and art, such as integrating art shows into music recitals. Lauren suggests starting with summer art camps to build interest and promote new programs. The value of collaboration between different art forms, suggesting it fosters community and enhances creative offerings. Importance of starting with group classes, diversifying offerings, and keeping operations simple for long-term success. She encourages schools to combine music and art elements for events like recitals and art shows.
Links Mentioned Art FUNdamentals Website Art FUNdamentals Facebook Page Art FUNdamentals Instagram Page Lauren's Website: Lauren's Art with Soul Lauren's Art School Website: Art and Soul Music Studio
Exclusive Offer for Podcast Listeners:Connect with Lauren and her team by emailing [email protected]. Mention that you heard about them through TopMusic Piano Podcast, and youâll receive $500 off your initial startup fee and an additional $30 off your monthly fee. Donât miss this opportunity to bring art into your studio while saving big!Today's GuestLauren Kushins is the co-founder, with Benjie Kushins, of Art Fundamentals and Art & Soul School of Creative & Performing ARTS. Her background is in using the ARTS to teach community well-being. She has traveled internationally providing social services through the use of the arts. Her bachelorâs degree and masterâs work focused on using the arts in the social service sector. Art & Soul School has provided educational arts to over 20,000 students in the Bay Area, over the past 22 years and She has been an ARTS educator for over 30 years. In addition, in 2019 she co-founded Art Fundamentals, an Art Program and Curriculum for Music and Dance Studios to help build their studio business and bring more art to children.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently... -
Hiring music teachers has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of running a multi-teacher studio. After interviewing and hiring over 20 teachers, Iâve gained valuable insights into what works, what doesnât, and how to navigate the process with confidence. In this solo episode, Iâm sharing the five biggest lessons Iâve learned to help you make smarter hiring decisions and build a strong, reliable team for your studio. Whether youâre building a team or hiring for your independent studio, youâll find practical advice to help navigate the process. Rachel discusses her journey managing a church-based conservatory, starting from scratch in 2022 after the pandemic. Some challenges she encountered in hiring music teachers. Always prioritize in-person interviews to better assess candidates and their fit. Candidates should experience the commute and see the teaching environment firsthand. Punctuality, presentation, and overall first impressions are important considerations. Flexible, conversational interviews tailored to the candidate provide more natural insights. Standard questions include teaching experience, beginner strategies, and method book preferences. Availability plays a critical role in hiring decisions. Pay attention to red flags, such as lateness or negative talk about previous employers. Importance of checking references for affirmation into the candidateâs strengths and growth areas. Avoid hiring out of desperation, even if it causes temporary delays. Embrace diversity by hiring candidates with strengths or backgrounds different from your own. Trial lessons or second interviews can provide clarity when youâre uncertain.
Links Mentioned TopMusic AI Podcast TopMusic Piano Podcast 049: Growing Creative Cultivation Studio with Shannon Saravia Download your TopMusic Magazine here
About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda. Visit her website at RachelEhring.com Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694 Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music
Thank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if itâs inspired you.If you enjoyed todayâs show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.Stay updated by -
In this episode, Shannon Saravia, founder of Creative Cultivation Studio, shares her inspiring journey of turning her passion for music into a thriving studio. Shannon shares how she transitioned from balancing piano lessons with a full-time office job to opening her dream studio in 2020. She dives into the challenges and triumphs of launching her unique parent-and-me classes while navigating the pandemic and setting up a new studio space in downtown La Verne in 2023. She discusses the challenges, triumphs, and key takeaways from her experience of creating a developmental and musical space for young learners and their families. Shannonâs story is packed with creativity, resilience, and a dedication to making music accessible to all. Join us as we explore her innovative approach to music education and how sheâs building a community rooted in kindness and growth. Sharon shared a brief overview of her background and her music teaching studio. Her journey of launching a parent-and-me music program while building her commercial studio. The challenges and excitement of opening a physical studio space. How the parent-and-me classes was inspired by her experience as a new parent. Developmental milestones for young children influenced the curriculum design. How her program gained traction and grew through word-of-mouth recommendations. Shannon shares tips for researching developmental milestones to guide program design. She emphasizes using templates or frameworks to kickstart similar programs. Why teamwork and collaboration were key to expanding programs and reaching diverse communities. The importance of inclusivity, catering to different languages and learning styles.
Links Mentioned Shannon Saravia's Website: Creative Cultivation Studio Creative Cultivation Studio Instagram Page Creative Cultivation Studio Facebook Page Download your TopMusic Magazine here.
Today's GuestShannon Saravia began her piano journey at the age of nine and taught her first lesson at 16, eventually transitioning to full-time teaching in 2019. Despite previously balancing piano lessons with a full-time office job, Shannon's passion for music never wavered. After relocating from Los Angeles to California's Central Valley, she seized the opportunity to follow her dream and established Creative Cultivation Studio in 2020.In 2023, the studio found its home in downtown La Verne, embodying a culture of kindness, creativity, and nurturing. Shannon and her team focus on personalized lessons tailored to each student's unique needs, fostering their growth into skilled and confident musicians. Through her studio, Shannon shares her love for music while inspiring creativity and knowledge in her students' lives.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. Johnâs Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isnât playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle... - Laat meer zien
