The TopCast: The Official Music Teachers' Podcast Tim Topham

In this episode, we explore the innovative Meridee Winters Music Method through the insights of Kate Capps, a key figure in its development and implementation. Kate shares her journey from discovering music at five years old to studying at Berklee College of Music and eventually joining Meridee Winters' Philadelphia school in 2007. Over the past 17 years, Kate has become Meridee's right-hand person, contributing to the creation and evolution of the method’s groundbreaking books and materials. Kate discusses the method's chord and pattern-based approach, its focus on creativity and playfulness, and how it engages students, especially teenagers. Kate also reveals exciting upcoming projects and supplemental materials designed to further enrich the music learning experience. Join us to explore how Meridee Winters Music is transforming music education by fostering creativity and connection.

Kate shared a brief overview of her background and her journey working with Meridee Winters.
She shared how she came about working for Meridee Winters School of Music.
She shared about Meridee's background as a lifelong musician and elementary classroom teacher disheartened by the lack of creativity in traditional education.
Meridee's career path, including owning karate schools and working in recording studios before teaching adult musicians to accompany themselves.
How Meridee developed a method to teach chords and patterns, integrating her education background and creativity.
The importance of teaching music as a creative art and language art.
The balance of incorporating reading music into the method while maintaining creativity.
Kate shared about Meridee's books, Chord Crash Course and Chord Quest.
Tim highlights the need for beginner methods for teenagers that make music fun and relatable.
The importance of connecting with teenage students to keep them engaged in music.
Kate shares about some upcoming projects of Meridee Winters Music.
The concept of integrated music teaching, which helps students understand and find connections in music.


Links Mentioned

Meridee Winters Website
Meridee Winters Instagram Page
Meridee Winters Facebook Page
Email Kate at books@merideewinters.com


Today’s Guest


Kate discovered music at five years old, after inheriting a piano from a neighbor's basement. Recognizing her immediate love for the instrument, her parents signed her up for lessons and Kate’s career as a musician was born. Songwriting quickly became a passion, and led Kate to Berklee College of Music, where she studied songwriting, voice and piano, and graduated magna cum laude. In 2007, Kate began working with Meridee Winters in as a teacher for her Philadelphia school, where she taught piano, voice and songwriting and fell in love with Meridee’s creative approach to teaching music. Over the past 17 years working with Meridee, Kate’s role has evolved into Meridee’s “right hand person” and editor for her trailblazing books and materials, while still remaining actively involved with the school’s teachers, curriculum and events.
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In today's exciting episode, we welcome back Paul Myatt, a successful Australian businessman and renowned educator. As a founding Director of the Forte School of Music, Paul has spearheaded an innovative and thriving music education network that reaches over 4,000 students across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Known for his passion for lifelong music-making and the positive impacts of music education, Paul shares his insights on teaching and pedagogy and the importance of holistic, student-centered approaches to learning. Join us as we delve into engaging teaching strategies, the significance of whole body learning, and how to inspire the next generation of musicians.

Tim highlights Paul's roles in various episodes, including discussions on group lessons, expert roundups, and the "No Book Beginners" approach.
Importance of a holistic and student-centered approach to teaching, integrating music skills and reading.
Paul discusses Generation Alpha's reduced attention spans due to mobile technology.
Relevance of whole body learning, which includes movement, singing, and listening to music.
Cognitive neuroscience research supporting attention, engagement, error detection, and consolidation in learning.
Importance of consolidating material in lessons and ensuring students practice effectively.
Role of music in memory and learning, citing examples of its effectiveness in various contexts.
Influence of instructional methodologies like Orff, Kodály, Suzuki, and their relevance to whole body learning.
How whole body learning adapts these methodologies specifically for piano lessons.
Whole body learning in practice, demonstrating how it engages students through movement and music.
Some benefits of whole body learning.
Interactive learning environment, including active listening, singing, chanting & playing instruments.
Upcoming Whole Body Learning Teaching Beginner's course details, course pricing and benefits.


Whole Body Learning Teaching Beginner's Course

Register here and use US20POD upon checkout to get $20 off US price


Guest Links Mentioned

Piano Teaching Success
Forte School of Music


Links Mentioned

Whole Body Learning: A Fun and Effective Way to Teach Music
TTTV033: How Group Lessons Can Transform Your Studio with Paul Myatt & Gillian Erskine
IMT323: A Done-For-You Group Teaching Curriculum with Paul Myatt and Gillian Erskine
TMG #041: A Whole Body Learning Approach to Guitar Lessons with Paul Myatt
Transform Your Piano Teaching with Tim Topham and Paul Myatt [Live Event]


Today’s Guest


Successful Australian...

Join us in today's episode as we sit down with Brock Chart, our TopMusicSheets composer of the month. Brock is an accomplished composer, studio owner, and the founder of My-Melodies Publishing in Kansas. Renowned for his versatility across genres such as jazz, pop, educational piano literature, and film music, Brock has made significant contributions to the music world. He was named the 2022 Composer of the Year by the Kansas Federation of Music Clubs and had 15 original compositions selected for the 2024-2028 NFMC Bulletin. Since establishing My-Melodies Publishing, he has released six well-received educational books. Tune in to hear Brock share his journey, insights into the composing process, and valuable advice for aspiring composers.
Tim praises Brock's music for its accessibility and engaging nature, noting the inclusion of QR codes that provide access to various tracks and tutorial videos.Tim highlights the monthly availability of sheet music collections from composers worldwide.Brock shares his composing journey, starting with a high school jazz combo piece and progressing to writing for various ensembles, including big bands and jazz groups.Importance of playing with others and joining ensembles to enhance musical experience and foster social connections.Encouraging creativity in students and the impact of teachers suggesting new opportunities and ambitious projects.Challenges and learning experiences of writing for different instruments and ensembles.Brock shares his experience of self-publishing after a rejection from a big publisher and learning the process by asking for advice.Importance of social media, conferences, and learning from established composers for effective marketing.The value of attending conferences for networking and exposure, despite the costs.Brock recommends digital routes like Kindle Direct Publishing for low-cost, professional-looking publications.His influences, including Dennis Alexander and Catherine Rollin, and the impact of listening to student feedback on his compositions.He encourages aspiring composers to try their pieces with students and consider digital publishing options.Brock expresses his positive experience working with Tim's team and learning from the process.
Guest Links MentionedBrock Chart WebsiteBrock Chart Facebook PageBrock Chart Instagram Page
Links MentionedFind out more about TopMusicSheets hereSubscribe to TopMusic YouTube channelTopMusicSheets Volume 51 (Brock Chart) Playthrough video
Today’s Guest

Brock Chart is a composer, studio owner, and founder of My-Melodies Publishing in Kansas. He composes in a variety of genres and mediums including jazz, pop, educational piano literature, and film music. He was the 2022 Composer of the Year by the Kansas Federation of Music Clubs, and had 15 original compositions selected for the 2024-2028 NFMC Bulletin.
Brock has been awarded two Student Music Awards in DownBeat magazine for composition in both large-ensemble and small-group writing. In 2019, he composed an original score for the Museum of Modern Art’s short film How to See, which was listed in the British Film Institute’s list of the...

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Amy Chaplin, a distinguished pianist, teacher, speaker, blogger, and podcaster, who is passionate about studio business, organization, and life. Amy combines these interests through her blog, PianoPantry.com, and The Piano Pantry Podcast, as well as running an independent piano studio in Northeast Indiana. An active member of the Music Teachers National Association, Amy has held various leadership roles and frequently speaks at events on studio business, marketing, and digital organization. Join us as we delve into Amy's expert insights on organizing both your music studio and your life, offering practical tips and strategies to streamline your workflow and enhance your teaching efficiency.
Amy shared a brief overview of her background and niche development.She shares details about her recent retreats and digital coaching events.Organization tips and methods for music teachers on printed sheet music and digital sheet music.Tips on organizing digital games, emphasizing the importance of clear naming conventions.Digital organization tips and how to maintain organized file structures.Email management and how to utilize folders.Thoughts on Dropbox vs. Google Drive.Importance of backing up files to avoid data loss.Some note-taking and organization apps.Amy's transition from Evernote to Notion for better functionality and cost.She shares some meal prep for busy music teachers.Additional tips for Google Drive folders for better visual organization.
Guest Links MentionedAmy Chaplin's WebsiteThe Piano Pantry PodcastThe Piano Pantry RetreatAmy Chaplin's Digital CoachingAmy Chaplin's Workshop: Organize Your Life With NotionThe Piano Pantry Podcast Episode 105 – Evernote Vs. Notion
Links MentionedDownload the latest TopMusic Magazine here.
Today’s Guest

Amy Chaplin is a pianist, teacher, speaker, blogger, and podcaster. She loves talking about all things studio business, organization, and life-related. She combines all of these passions at PianoPantry.com and on The Piano Pantry Podcast. She runs an independent piano studio in Northeast Indiana. An active member of Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), Amy has served in multiple leadership roles at the state and local levels, including President of the Indiana Music Teacher’s Association, VP of Membership, Website Editor, AIM Development, and is now serving as a trustee of the association. She frequently speaks at the local, state, and national levels on topics related to studio business, marketing, digital organization, and music learning theory applications.
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 on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.
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In today's show, we're thrilled to introduce you to our TopMusicSheets Composer of the Month, Jeff Millis. Jeff is a passionate musician who has been composing since his earliest memories of music. He teaches students worldwide through his unique online method, which emphasizes creativity from the very beginning. Jeff’s innovative approach and dedication to crafting enjoyable, pedagogically sound music for students of all levels make him a standout in the world of music education. Join us as we dive into Jeff's journey, his teaching philosophy, and the inspirations behind his diverse compositions. Whether you're a musician, teacher, or simply a music lover, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation with Jeff Millis.
Jeff shared a brief overview of his music teaching and composing experience.His TopMusicSheets compositions, highlighting their pedagogical value and diversity in styles.How he shifted to online teaching five years ago due to logistical challenges of house calls.Some techniques that he developed to teach without physical contact with his students.His online teaching setup and what his lesson schedule looks like.The benefits of online teaching.His mentors, influences and film composers that inspired him to appreciate the art and science of emotionally powerful music.Jeff's thoughts on minimalist music by composers like Ludovico Einaudi and Philip Glass.His view on piano music and his perception of classical music.The importance of creativity in music teaching, encouraging improvisation and composing.Some alternative methods of assessing music students beyond traditional recitals.The significance of recognizing patterns in music as a fundamental teaching tool.He shares his experience collaborating with Albert, TopMusicSheets Publishing Director.Jeff encourages other teacher-composers to engage with the program, citing the ease and benefits of collaboration.
Guest Links MentionedJeff Millis websiteJeff Millis Vimeo pageJeff Millis Instagram: @jeffmillismakesmusiciansFacebook Page: Total Piano Genius (Jeff Millis Makes Musicians)
Links MentionedFind out more about TopMusicSheets hereSubscribe to TopMusic YouTube channelTopMusicSheets Volume 50 (Jeff Millis) Playthrough videoTopMusicSheets Volume 50 (Jeff Millis) SoundCloud playlist
Today's Guest

Jeff Millis teaches privately online, serving students across the globe with his proprietary method emphasizing musical creativity from the earliest stages. He has been composing since before he knew what “composing” meant and may possibly love creating music even more than playing it! Before any formal training, his earliest exposure to music was in an environment that encouraged improvisation with chords, which gave him a unique perspective in lessons later on and still informs his creative process. Becoming a teacher inspired Jeff to start...

In today's episode, we delve into the world of piano accompanying with Dr. Rachel Ehring, a distinguished pianist, teacher, and music administrator. With a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. She is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging lessons for students of all ages. Join us as we explore how to add piano accompanying to your income portfolio, discussing Rachel’s innovative course on collaborative piano, its creation, marketing strategies, and the invaluable skills required for effective accompanying. Don't miss out on Rachel's valuable tips and insights on expanding your musical skills and income opportunities and her upcoming free webinar.
Tim highlights and appreciates Rachel's role as the host of the TopMusic Piano podcast.Discussion on Rachel's role as a course creator at Dream Lavender Music Studio.Rachel explains collaborative piano as an equal partnership between musicians.She shares her journey from a piano performance undergrad to earning a doctorate in collaborative piano.Importance of sight-reading and listening skills.Tim shares his experiences accompanying students and the challenges of repertoire.The fun and educational benefits for students engaging in collaborative piano.Advantages of collaborative piano for teachers.Rachel’s motivation to create a course on collaborative piano.She shares her course structure, target audience, course content, course launch and success.She discusses the main modules and learning stages of her course.She shares her course creation process, marketing and course launching.Importance of repeated communication and personal engagement.Rachel shared some advice for aspiring course creators.
Guest Links MentionedRachel Ehring's website
Register for Rachel's Live WebinarHow to Earn Extra Income by Playing the Piano Webinar (Monday, June 24th, 7:00 AM PST)
Links MentionedMusic Teacher Startup CourseCPTP166: From Piano Teacher to Wedding Pianist with Liz Craig
Today's Guest
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 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 on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers...