Adult Education – Page 3

Simple fixes for easing piano pain

Supporting Your Piano Pathway
Written by Andrew Eales

Bernice (a real person, but not her real name) is a 76-year-old learner who took up the piano about 5 years ago. She has made steady progress, is now early intermediate level, and particularly enjoys playing traditional classical favourites.

The article which follows is based on Bernice’s true story, her lessons with me, and easy adjustments which have helped her overcome discomfort when playing. She has given permission for this to be shared in order to similarly help and encourage others.

Why Bother with Scales?

Pianodao Articles • Full Archive

Supporting Your Piano Pathway
Written by Andrew Eales

“For many, scales and arpeggios are an academic, dry and soulless part of learning the piano, and have to be practised because, like cod liver oil, they are ‘good for you’.”

Anthony Williams, The Piano Teacher’s Survival Guide (Faber Music, 2017)

Why bother with scales? In order to properly answer this question, this article will consider these related questions, of vital importance to students and teachers concerned to know about the purpose and value of teaching and learning scales:

What are the benefits of learning scales?
Is it important to use consistent fingering?
Why is cumulative learning better than exam cramming?
How can scales practice and creativity go hand-in-hand?

Let’s get started by considering the core benefits of learning scales…

Piano Lessons: Dealing with Anxiety

Pianodao Articles • Full Archive

Supporting Your Piano Pathway
Written by Andrew Eales

I am sure that most piano teachers will be alert to the fact that some pupils coming to lessons are anxious. This post will look at some reasons for that, and offer some suggestions that might help normalise lessons.

The article is written for any player who has ever said. and any teacher who has ever heard the words:

“It was perfect when I practised it at home this morning…”

Clearly, in order for student and teacher to make the most of any piano lesson we all want to move beyond this point!