Make practicing piano easier for our students by:

1. prepare them to practice in the lesson by teaching and reviewing landmark notes, demonstrating rhythm, and testing them to figure it out on their own.

2. external motivators as you see fit, and encouraging the parents to make sure practicing happens at home.

3. teach them the difference between playing, practicing and performing.

Larissa Humphries (a cello teacher friend) puts on these Summer Contests with her mom Stephanie Hinckley (my piano teacher friend). Such a great idea!

First you look at what technical challenges your students may be having, gaps in their learning, things they need to work on.

Second, choose a theme and think of 7 musical projects they could do on their own. Some easier than others.

Larissa wants to also mention that she tells the students they are working toward the grand prize, she doesn't share that they only have to complete 5 out of 7. That gives her the flexibility to see if 4 out of 7 is enough work for some grand prizes to be awarded.

Remember to choose themes and projects that work for YOU in YOUR studio, these are ideas that worked for Larissa in hers.

Also check out last week's episode 90 for a repost of more summer ideas including groups, camps, and creative ideas.

Maybe this will be the best, most musical summer ever!

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Are you thinking about (worrying about) summertime piano lessons?

Between vacations, camps, students' schedules made more complicated if we have our own kids... Is it even worth it to try?

So worth it!

Listen in for suggestions from my experience, as well as my piano teacher friends including

1. group games/camps

2. making policies or practicalities for fewer lessons

3. could be a time to bring in something new, different, and fun!

Keeping our students improving through the whole summer so we don't have to start over in the fall!

-Check in with us again next week, I interview a cello teacher friend who shares her Summer Contests that flow with the course of normal teaching and motivates students to complete projects on their own!

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