TopMusic Piano Podcast Tim Topham

In today's episode, we delve into the art of teaching beginners with our guest, Rebecca Stewart. With a rich background in music education, Rebecca's journey began with the Yamaha method and later evolved into her own unique approach, filled with creativity and innovation. From her farm life in Australia to her recent speaking engagement at the Autumn Piano School, Rebecca shares valuable insights gained from years of experience. We explore her transition from established curricula to personalized lessons, her favorite method books, and her creative teaching techniques, including improvisation and composition. Join us as we uncover Rebecca's passion for teaching, her role as Head of Certification at TopMusic, and her dedication to making music education fun, engaging, and accessible for students of all ages.

Rebecca shares a brief overview of her music studio and shares about her farm life in Australia.
Her recent speaking engagement at the Autumn Piano School in Armidale, Australia.
She shares highlights from the conference, including observing other teachers and assessing student needs.
Her transition from teaching with the Yamaha curriculum to creating her own lessons.
Her approach to beginner lessons, emphasizing creativity, improvisation, and individualized instruction.
Favorite method books for her students, including Piano Safari, Encore on Keys, and Piano Adventures.
Creative activities that she incorporates into lessons, such as rote pieces, improvisation, composition, chord playing, and transposition.
Advice on improvisation for teachers who may struggle with it.
Examples of using animal stories and dragon imagery to inspire improvisation in students.
Discussion about her sight-reading series called "Sight Reading Secrets."
She highlights the community aspect of TopMusic, offering professional development and support for isolated piano teachers.
TopMusic certification program and how it provides practical professional development opportunities for piano teachers to improve their skills in teaching, business, and marketing.
She shared about some upcoming events with her students and working with new teachers in the certification program.


Guest Links Mentioned:

Rebecca Stewart's Website - Sight Reading Secrets


Links Mentioned:

TopMusic Certification
TopMusicGames
Rachel Ehring's Instagram Page


Today’s Guest


Rebecca Stewart grew up listening to her three older sisters practice their musical instruments. She delighted in her childhood music lessons and wanted to teach young children in a fun and creative way. Her piano teacher at Melbourne University recommended the Yamaha method, and Rebecca taught with Yamaha Music Education Centres from 1998 to 2018. She loved being a national teacher trainer with Yamaha, and enjoyed opportunities to travel to Toronto and Tokyo for Yamaha teacher development events. In 2016 Rebecca went to Jakarta where her 8-year-old Yamaha student performed his original composition at the Asia Pacific Junior Original Concert. Her first book "Sight Reading Secrets Grade One" was published in 2004, and there are now nine books in the series. In 2023, Rebecca worked with Tim Topham in developing the TopMusic Certification program and continues in the role of Head of Certification for TopMusic.
About Rachel Ehring
Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music...

In this episode, we're taking a break from the hustle and bustle of planning recitals and enrolling students to delve into a topic close to my heart, preschoolers learning piano. Contrary to the prodigy videos circulating online, I advocate for a more nuanced approach, drawing on my evolving perspective and experiences teaching young students. Today, we're going to explore the benefits, challenges, and resources available for teaching piano to preschoolers. From method books to creative supplements, I'm going to share some insights and strategies for making piano lessons engaging and effective for the little ones and the importance of play-based activities and meeting students where they are developmentally. Whether you're seasoned or considering expanding your student base, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice for teaching piano to preschoolers.

Rachel introduces the topic of whether preschoolers can learn to play the piano and why it's worth considering.
She shares her evolving perspective on teaching piano to preschoolers.
Various resources available for teaching preschooler.
The benefits and challenges of each approach and her personal experiences using different curriculums.
The numerous benefits of early piano education.
Rachel acknowledges the need for adjusting expectations when teaching preschoolers.
Practical tips for managing expectations and facilitating effective practice at home.
The importance of play-based activities in preschool piano lessons and various creative teaching strategies.
She encourages teachers to embrace the joy and excitement of teaching young students and highlights the reciprocal learning experience between teacher and student.


Resources Mentioned

“A Whale of an Excuse” Sound Effect Story 
Beginner Piano Improv PowerPack
Preschool No Book Beginners available only inside TopMusicPro Academy
WunderKeys Piano Books and Resources
Piano Safari Friends
KiddyKeys
The Music Tree
Faber's My First Piano Adventure


Links Mentioned

Register for the Chart Toppers and Chord Progressions Webinar here.
TopMusic Piano Podcast Ep 001: Using Stories in Beginner Piano Lessons
Amy Elmore Instagram Page


About Rachel Ehring
Dr. 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. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson...

In today's episode, we're joined by Michelle Sisler, founder of Keys to Imagination and a nationally recognized figure known for her creative use of technology and dynamic presentations. Michelle takes us on a journey through her teaching studio and shares how she revolutionized piano education by integrating technology and engaging games through Keys to Imagination. From the importance of incorporating games into lessons to practical advice on game selection and seamless integration into teaching, Michelle offers invaluable insights into enhancing learning outcomes in both individual and group settings. Join us as we explore the transformative power of technology and creativity in music education.
Michelle shares a brief overview of her background and her music teaching studio.How she started Keys to Imagination to incorporate technology and games into piano teaching.The importance of incorporating games into lessons, even within the confines of 30-minute sessions.Her favorite beginner games from Keys to Imagination, including Noteworthy and Rhythm Riot.She addresses the concern of time constraints in lessons and how games can be seamlessly integrated to enhance learning outcomes.Advice on choosing appropriate games for teaching.How Keys to Imagination games can be used both in individual lessons and group settings.She highlights the success of her summer group lesson program aimed at reinforcing fundamental skills in a fun and engaging way.The value of technology in piano studios, offering lab time for students to work independently on rhythm, ear training, and more.
Links Mentioned:Keys to Imagination WebsiteRegister for the Chart Toppers and Chord Progressions Webinar here.
Today’s Guest

Michelle Sisler's use of technology, creativity and presentations have gained her national recognition. Along with teaching 30 students per week, Michelle is the founder of Keys to Imagination LLC and MusicEdConnect.com. She is a favorite presenter and is frequently sought after for presentations across the nation. Michelle serves on the technology committee for NCKP and has served on the technology committee for MTNA and the Minnesota Music Teachers Association Foundation Board of Directors. She has written articles for Clavier Companion and American Music Teacher and is an active author of technology curriculum, engaging theory games, and motivation programs. In 2023, Michelle was honored with the Frances Clark Center Outstanding Service Award.
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. John’s 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 isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.
If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review

In today's episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Jennifer Eklund, a seasoned musician, educator, and the creative mind behind the Piano Pronto method books series. With a rich background in music performance, pedagogy, and historical musicology, Jennifer offers invaluable insights into piano education and composition. Join us as she shares her journey from teaching piano in Sweden to becoming a renowned composer and author, and how her passion for music led to the development of the Piano Pronto method book series. From discussing the importance of composition as a teaching tool to offering practical advice for beginner teachers, Jennifer's expertise shines through as she navigates the world of piano education with wisdom and enthusiasm. Tune in as we delve into the innovative methods and resources that make the Piano Pronto series a staple in piano classrooms worldwide.

Jennifer shares a brief overview of her background.
How she started teaching piano at a young age and eventually retired from teaching in 2014 to focus on her publishing business, Piano Pronto.
The Piano Pronto method books, songbooks, and sheet music.
She discusses her journey to becoming a composer, starting with teaching piano in Sweden and creating materials out of necessity.
Importance of composition as a teaching tool, providing practical tips and resources for teachers.
She encourages flexibility in teaching and acknowledges that composition may not be for every student.
How she sees improvisation and composition as intertwined in her teaching approach.
Why she developed the Piano Pronto method books.
Jennifer's advice for beginner teachers.


Guest Links:

Piano Pronto Website
Jennifer's Pop Music Catalog site (F.M. Sheet Music)
Piano Pronto Publishing Facebook Group
Piano Pronto Instagram Page


Today’s Guest


Jennifer Eklund holds a bachelor’s degree in music with an emphasis in performance and pedagogy and a master’s degree in historical musicology from California State University, Long Beach. She is an avid arranger, composer, and author of the Piano Pronto® method books series as well as a wide variety of supplemental songbooks for students of all ages and levels. Jennifer is also a Signature Artist arranger with Musicnotes.com providing a large pop music catalog spanning many genres and styles.
About Rachel Ehring
Dr. 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. John’s 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 isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL
Thank you for tuning in!
Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on

In today's exciting episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Tim Topham to discuss the power of dreaming big in the world of music education. Tim shares about his recent journey to the States, where he was the keynote speaker at the MTNA conference and also hosted an event in New York. From the genesis of his keynote speaking dream to his inspiring speech at MTNA, he offers valuable insights into the evolving mindset of music educators. We delve into the shift towards treating music studios as businesses and explore some exciting developments at TopMusic, including new projects and upcoming events. Join us as Tim encourages teachers to foster a positive peer perception of their students' musical abilities, all while championing the power of community support and the pursuit of dreams in the face of challenges.

Tim shares about his recent trip to the States, where he was a keynote speaker at the MTNA conference and ran an event in New York.
He recounts the journey of being asked to be the keynote speaker, a dream he had since attending MTNA in 2016.
His keynote speech at MTNA, focusing on the importance of vision for teachers, studios, and personal goals.
The shift in mindset among music teachers towards treating their studios as businesses.
His experiences at MTNA, including connecting with colleagues and attending presentations.
Some exciting developments at TopMusic, including the monthly magazine, live cohort courses, member meetups, and monthly missions.
The importance of understanding chords and harmony, as they form the foundation of music, particularly in pop songs.
Tim highlights the availability of helpful courses on pop song teaching, chord composing, and songwriting within the TopMusicPro membership.
Benefits of allowing students to explore music without always aiming for performance readiness.
Value of creating a positive peer perception of students' musical abilities.


Today’s Guest


Tim Topham is the founder of TopMusicCo, the world’s biggest online community of independent music teachers. Tim worked with the AMEB to create the Piano for Leisure Series 4 examination repertoire books and has reviewed syllabi, repertoire and resources from exam boards across the world. Tim has 20+ years’ classroom and music teaching experience including 10 years of music entrepreneurship. He’s an internationally-recognised speaker, author, podcaster and blogger and holds degrees including an MBA, BMus and DipEd.
About Rachel Ehring
Dr. 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. John’s 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 isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL
Thank you for tuning in!
Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by a href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/topmusic-piano-podcast/"...

In this episode, we're chatting with Tony Parlapiano, a passionate piano instructor and the mastermind behind PopMATICS. Listen in as he takes us on a journey through his innovative curriculum designed for music enthusiasts seeking a hands-on learning experience. Tony also shares his personal evolution as a piano teacher and the transformative journey of his piano studio. From the hybrid model of live classes and video lessons to the emphasis on customization and student empowerment, get ready to explore the world of PopMATICS and its unique approach to music education.

Tony shares a brief overview of his online music school, which offers a hybrid model blending live classes with video lessons.
PopMATICS overview and how it aims to make music easy by simplifying the learning process, emphasizing customization for students' needs and preferences.
He shares his unique perspective as a piano teacher who never had piano lessons as a child, which influences his teaching approach.
His transition to piano from brass instruments during college and his journey into music education.
PopMATICS curriculum, focusing on creating, listening, understanding, covering improvisation, playing by ear, and music theory concepts.
How the program evolved to streamline class structure, concentrate on key learning areas, and ensure each class offers a complete learning experience.
The challenges of teaching to all levels simultaneously and PopMATICS' approach has proven successful in providing a comprehensive music education online.
Emphasis on learning music through listening rather than performance-based curriculum.
How the curriculum bridges the gap between classical and jazz music, providing clarity and understanding for students interested in diverse genres.
Tony highlights the role of Angela Senicz as his partner who's instrumental in the development and success of PopMATICS.


Guest Links:

PopMATICS Website
TC188: Inspiring Students with Interest-Based Learning with Tony Parlapiano


Today’s Guest


Tony Parlapiano is a piano instructor and the creator of popMATICS—a curriculum for students who love music and want to take an active role in the direction of their learning. On today’s episode, Tony shares his own journey to becoming a piano teacher and how he has transformed his piano studio over the past few years. Here’s my interview with Tony.
About Rachel Ehring
Dr. 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. John’s 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 isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL
Thank you for tuning in!
Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which...