The TopCast: The Official Music Teachers' Podcast

Tim Topham

The original podcast for growth-minded instrumental music and voice teachers since 2015. Our mission at TopMusic is to empower music teachers to find and nurture their innate creativity so they can teach lessons that are innovative, integrated and inspiring, and that will have a positive, life-long impact on their students. Tune in weekly as we interview teachers and creators from around the world and unpack fun and exciting ideas to maximise your teaching and studio business success.

  1. 5D AGO

    454: Meet Samantha Coates – TopMusicLive Keynote Speaker

    Keeping students focused in today’s distraction-filled world can feel harder than ever. Today, I’m joined by Samantha Coates, one of our keynote speakers at TopMusicLive, to preview her session on staying ahead of student distraction. If you’re looking for practical, ready-to-use ways to boost engagement in your lessons, you’re going to love what she has planned. Tim introduces Samantha Coates as a keynote speaker at TopMusicLive in Sydney.Samantha shares her background as creator of BlitzBooks, now celebrating 25 years.She previews her session on staying ahead of student distraction in lessons.Samantha explains how breaking up lessons helps re-engage distracted students.She promises practical activities teachers can implement immediately. Links Mentioned Get your EARLY BIRD tickets for TopMusicLive 2026 here.The TopMusic Teacher Guide to Fearless PerformingJoin our Spotlight Session with Noa Kageyama here.Practice Hacks for Musicians Course by Noa Kageyama Today's Guest Samantha Coates is an internationally regarded piano pedagogue and presenter. In addition to running an active teaching studio, she is the creator and publisher of BlitzBooks, the music education series that has brought laughter and creativity to music theory, sight reading, and piano repertoire. Samantha’s sense of humour and ability to connect with students through her books and online resources reflect her ongoing dedication to making all areas of music accessible, enjoyable and memorable. 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    12 min
  2. MAR 2

    453: Get Stage Ready with Noa Kageyama aka the Bulletproof Musician

    Helping students move from confident practice room playing to reliable stage performance is one of the biggest challenges we face as music teachers. In this episode, I'm sharing some honest reflections from my own performance anxiety journey, including sitting a high-level diploma exam as an adult. We’re unpacking what really causes that gap between practice and performance and how to help students become truly stage ready. Tim introduces this month’s focus on becoming stage ready.He explains the common gap between practice and performance.Tim shares his fear of solo classical performance.He reflects on completing his AMusA diploma as an adult.He describes the structure of the high-level performance exam.How preparing rebuilt his teaching confidence.The value of teachers taking lessons themselves.He recommends visualization as a preparation strategy.Tim encourages playing in the actual performance venue when possible.He shares a simple backstage hand-warmup technique.Tim introduces Noa Kageyama, The Bulletproof Musician.He previews the Spotlight session on performance psychology. Links Mentioned Get your EARLY BIRD tickets for TopMusicLive 2026 here.Join our Spotlight Session with Noa Kageyama here. Practice Hacks for Musicians Course by Noa KageyamaPreparing For an AMusA Performance Diploma Exam – Why Bother?!TMPP 099: Reflections on 99 Episodes of the TopMusic Piano PodcastTMPP 100: The Teacher Who Shaped Me as a Pianist with Dr. Un-Young WhangTMPP 101: Real Talk About Performance Anxiety 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    26 min
  3. FEB 23

    452: Meet Dr Anita Collins – TopMusicLive Keynote Speaker

    I’m really excited to give you a taste of what’s coming up at TopMusicLive this year. In today's episode, we're having a chat with Dr Anita Collins, who’ll be delivering one of our keynotes in Sydney. We talk about something that every music teacher is feeling right now — students are changing, attention spans are shifting, and resilience looks different than it used to. Anita helps us understand what’s happening in the brain and why music learning has never been more important. Tim introduced Dr Anita Collins as a keynote speaker for TopMusicLive in Sydney.Anita explained her work in music learning and brain development.The importance of distilling complex neuroscience into practical teaching insights.Anita discussed how students’ brains are changing in the post-COVID and AI era.How constant access to devices affects effort, dopamine, and attention spans.The decline in Generation Z IQ scores was referenced as a significant global trend.Anita described how students struggle more with long-term effort and delayed rewards.The value of productive discomfort for true brain growth was emphasized.She explained the concept of the zone of proximal development in music lessons.Tim highlighted the increasing difficulty of teaching in a fast-paced, swipe-driven culture.Anita stressed that teachers must adapt because the world has fundamentally shifted.She previewed her keynote topic: how to turn frustration into fuel. Links Mentioned Get your SUPER EARLY BIRD tickets for TopMusicLive 2026 here.Find out more about Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students Course here.Check out all TopMusic Courses here. Today’s Guest Dr. Anita Collins is an internationally recognised educator, researcher, writer, and consultant who bridges the gap between cutting-edge brain science and everyday teaching practice. Best known for her expertise in music learning and brain development, she uses this powerful lens to address broader educational challenges including student engagement, parent advocacy, and system wide innovation. Anita’s presentations inspire new possibilities, her consulting transforms how schools and organisations think and act, and her pragmatic strategies ensure change is both achievable and lasting. 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    18 min
  4. FEB 16

    451: Tips for Speaking to Parents About Neurodivergent Students with Tara Mock

    Helping parents understand and support their neurodivergent children starts with clear, compassionate communication. In this special replay episode from our TopMusic Piano Podcast, I’m sharing a valuable conversation of Dr. Rachel Ehring with Tara Mock on how music teachers can navigate those tricky but important discussions with empathy and clarity. Whether you’re new to working with neurodivergent students or looking to strengthen parent relationships, Tara’s insights are packed with wisdom you can use right away. Tara shared the importance of empathy when communicating with parents of neurodivergent students.She discussed how parent-teacher conversations can either build or break trust.The benefits of creating a safe and nonjudgmental studio space were highlighted.Tara offered suggestions for helping parents feel supported rather than criticized.Why teachers should avoid assumptions and labels when speaking to families.Strategies for using open-ended questions to guide conversations.Tara emphasized the power of collaboration between parents and teachers.She encouraged educators to focus on student strengths, not just challenges.Sharing small wins with families was recommended to instill hope and confidence.Advice on managing expectations and pacing progress appropriately.The value of welcoming feedback and maintaining a two-way dialogue.Tara reminded teachers that every learner’s experience is unique and valid. Links Mentioned Get your EARLY BIRD tickets for TopMusicLive 2026 here.Find out more about Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students Course here.Check out all TopMusic Courses here.Find out more about TopMusic Piano Podcast here. Today’s Guest Tara Mock has been teaching for 28 years and owns an independent piano studio in Raleigh, North Carolina. She earned a Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy in 2001 from the University of South Carolina focusing on improvisation for the beginner piano student. After homeschooling her own children with neurodivergent diagnoses for over 14 years, she is focusing on teaching piano to students who learn and experience the world differently as well. She currently serves as the 2nd Vice President of Membership in the Raleigh Piano Teachers Association, and previously served in various roles in the Jacksonville Music Teachers Association in Jacksonville, Florida. Her family includes her genius husband, two amazing and gifted children (one in college and the other finishing high school), two of the best dogs ever, a goofy horse, and many fish. 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    35 min
  5. FEB 9

    450: You’ve Got It Backwards: The Special Abilities of the Dyslexic Student with Dr Olivia Colomaio

    Understanding the minds of neurodivergent students can completely transform how we approach teaching. In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood diagnoses: dyslexia. This week, I’m sharing a powerful webinar replay from Dr. Olivia Colomaio, a dyslexic pianist and educator who brings both personal experience and deep research to the table. She breaks down how dyslexia affects music learning, highlights the strengths of dyslexic students, and gives you practical strategies to build a more inclusive studio environment. Tim introduced the episode as part of the month-long focus on neurodivergent teaching strategies.Olivia shared her personal journey as a dyslexic pianist and educator.She explained how dyslexia affects music reading and decoding rhythms.Common traits like visual overstimulation and anxiety in dyslexic learners.The value of recognizing dyslexic students’ strengths like pattern recognition and spatial reasoning.How dyslexic students often use the right brain for reading and thinking in pictures.She shared her experience preparing for a concerto competitionStrategies that helped her memorize music.Key strengths of dyslexic learners including compensatory ingenuity and intrinsic motivation.Classroom accommodations: multisensory methods, score modifications, and visual aids.Examples of color-coded notation and score adjustments that help students understand rhythms and notes.The importance of creating safe, patient, and inclusive studio environments was discussed.She advised giving students time to process and using affirming language to build confidence.Understanding the “why” behind teaching strategies for better retention among dyslexic learners.Full Q&A segment of the webinar with Tara Wright. Links Mentioned Get your SUPER EARLY BIRD tickets for TopMusicLive 2026 here.Find out more about Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students Course here.Check out all TopMusic Courses here.Join our Lite Plan here to watch the webinar. Today’s Guest Olivia Grace Colomaio (Bradstreet) is a pianist, accompanist, teacher, and doctoral candidate in Piano Pedagogy at the University of South Carolina. She teaches lessons in piano, accompanying, composition, and music theory, and she loves teaching students of all ages, interests, experience levels, and backgrounds! Originally from Bath, NY, she earned her master’s in piano pedagogy and performance from Campbellsville University (Campbellsville, KY), and her bachelor’s degree in piano performance from Roberts Wesleyan University (Rochester, NY). Her research focuses on discovering and providing resources for students with dyslexia and other forms of neurodivergence. Olivia currently resides in Lexington, South Carolina. 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    1h 6m
  6. FEB 2

    449: How to Thrive Teaching Neurodivergent Students

    One of the most powerful webinars we’ve ever run at TopMusic was a session with educator Selena Pistoresi, focused on how to support neurodivergent students. The response from teachers around the world was incredible, so I’m sharing a replay of that webinar here on the podcast. Selena offers practical, compassionate advice that challenges some of the traditional ways we approach behavior, motivation, and lesson structure. And it’s all grounded in a deep respect for the unique ways our students experience the world. Tim introduced the Spotlight theme for February: teaching neurodivergent students.The importance of shifting language and mindset when supporting neurodivergent students.The value of understanding student behavior as communication was highlighted.Selena outlined the difference between compliance and true learning.She encouraged teachers to move away from reward systems toward intrinsic motivation.Practical strategies for flexible lesson plans and routines were shared.The importance of regulating the teacher's own nervous system was discussed.Selena offered examples of co-regulation techniques to support student needs.She recommended viewing meltdowns and shutdowns as opportunities for support.Suggestions for adapting teaching materials for different sensory and cognitive needs were explored.Teachers were encouraged to create a safe and inclusive learning space. Links Mentioned Get your SUPER EARLY BIRD tickets for TopMusicLive 2026 here.Join our Spotlight Session with Bec Stewart here.Find out more about Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students Course here.Check out all TopMusic Courses here.Join our Lite Plan here to watch the webinar. Member Links Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students in 2024 Webinar ReplayUnfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students Course Today's Guest Selena Pistoresi has been a piano teacher for over a decade. Selena blogs over at Notablepiano.com and is the author of the Milestone Method. She owns Cultivate Music Studio, a studio in San Jose, California, where she specializes in working with students with special needs. She equips teachers all over the world with the mindset tools and curriculum to teach students with special needs and to help their studios flourish. 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    49 min
  7. JAN 26

    448: Well… This Is Happening!

    Hey there, and welcome back to a brand-new year of The TopCast! I’m so pumped to kick off 2026 with a very special announcement, one that many of you have been asking me about for years. This episode is all about what's ahead in 2026, from our exciting monthly themes and spotlight guests to the return of something very close to my heart. I won’t spoil the surprise just yet, but let’s just say if you’ve ever wanted to gather in person with like-minded music teachers for a game-changing experience, you’re going to want to hear this. Tim opened the first episode of 2026 by expressing excitement for the year ahead.He celebrated 11 years of podcasting and the upcoming 500th episode milestone.He announced that 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of TopMusicPro.He revealed the return of a live event:TopMusic Live 2026in Sydney this April.Kawai as the main sponsor supporting the in-person event.The venue of the event, which is overlooking Sydney Harbour and includes full catering.Outline of the event format, including keynotes, masterminds, and demo lessons.The focus on implementation sessions to help teachers take action.Tim introduced monthly spotlight themes and guests planned for the first half of 2026.February’s theme is teaching neurodiverse students with Bec Stewart.He shared that he will keynote at IRMTNZ in New Zealand this April. Links Mentioned Get your EARLY BIRD ticket for the TopMusicLive 2026 here.Find out more about Spotlight Session with Rebecca Stewart here. 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    27 min
  8. 12/22/2025

    447: TopMusic 2025 Wrapped PLUS Vision 2026

    2025 has been one of the biggest years yet for us here at TopMusic. And I’m thrilled to wrap it all up with you in this final episode of the year. In today's episode, we're diving into the key highlights of everything we’ve accomplished, from new courses and Spotlight Sessions to powerful AI tools and a complete website transformation. You’ll also get a sneak peek into our bold new vision for 2026, including our upcoming Studio Coaching Tier, a refreshed action-focused approach to teacher growth, and the exciting announcement of TopMusicLive 2026 happening in Sydney! Tim shared highlights and accomplishments from TopMusic’s 2025 initiatives.TopMusic released 12 themed digital magazines covering topics like technique and repertoire.Two active podcast shows—TopCast and the TopMusic Piano Podcast with Rachel Ehring.Five new courses were added to TopMusicPro.Released monthly Inspire Packs and Creativity Boost Cards to enhance student engagement.A new Power Hour for UK members was launched, expanding global sessions to four time zones.Significantly improved website speed and dashboard performance for a better user experience.Spotlight Sessions were introduced, featuring live expert Q&As on pedagogy and business.The 12-Week Studio Transformation program continued with two successful cohorts.TopMusic ran its first-ever Composition Competition with student winners featured on the podcast.The organization introduced new AI-powered tools.What's coming ahead in 2026 for TopMusic?Tim announced TopMusic’s new vision and five-pillar strategy.Launching of a new Studio Coaching Tier, offering weekly check-ins and premium support.Official announcement of TopMusicLive 2026 in Sydney, with presale tickets now available attopmusiclive.com. Links Mentioned Find out more about TopMusicLive hereDownload your latest TopMusic Magazine hereJoin the next cohort waitlist of the 12-Week Studio Transformation (12WST)TopMusic Piano Podcast with Rachel EhringLeave a review for our podcasts Courses Mentioned Recruit Right, the Essential Guide to Hiring Teachers CourseJam Sessions CourseCanva for Music Teachers CourseUnlock Your Brand Voice: The Signature Soundbook for Music Teachers CourseChatGPT Made Easy: The Music Teachers’ Guide to AI Course 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 subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Mondays weekly. TopMusicPro 14-Day Free Trial Heard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership. TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    30 min
4.8
out of 5
129 Ratings

About

The original podcast for growth-minded instrumental music and voice teachers since 2015. Our mission at TopMusic is to empower music teachers to find and nurture their innate creativity so they can teach lessons that are innovative, integrated and inspiring, and that will have a positive, life-long impact on their students. Tune in weekly as we interview teachers and creators from around the world and unpack fun and exciting ideas to maximise your teaching and studio business success.

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