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Piano Pedagogy

This comprehensive course in piano pedagogy is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to become master piano teachers. The course covers a wide range of topics, including the principles of piano instruction and literature, from the beginner level to the advanced high school level. This course is beneficial for both piano majors and non-piano majors, as it provides a universal understanding of the principles of effective piano teaching and the management of a teaching studio.

Throughout the course, students will gain valuable insights on various teaching techniques and strategies that can be applied to any piano teaching context. Enroll now and embark on a journey to acquire the expertise and confidence necessary to become a skilled and successful piano teacher.

Purpose of the Course

This course in piano pedagogy is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of effective piano instruction. Through a combination of lectures, readings, and hands-on experience, students will gain a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of piano pedagogy, including teaching methods, materials, and strategies for students of all levels. This course will also focus on the development of the skills and knowledge necessary for students to establish and run their own successful piano teaching studio. By the end of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills needed to teach piano effectively and to build and maintain a thriving piano studio.

Required Materials

This course will utilize the following texts and resources as primary materials for instruction:

• "Fourth Finger on B-flat: Effective Strategies for Teaching Piano" by Joanne Haroutounian
• "Hal Leonard Student Piano Library: Piano Lessons Book 1" by Barbara Kreader, Fred Kern, Phillip Keveren, and Mona Rejino
• "How to Teach Piano Successfully, Third Edition" by James W. Bastien, published by Kjos Music Company
• "The Well-Tempered Keyboard Teacher, 2nd edition" by Marienne Uszler, Stewart Gordon, and Scott McBride Smith, published by Schirmer Books
• "The Pianist's Guide to Standard Teaching and Performance Literature" edited by Jane Magrath, published by Alfred Publications

In addition to the above texts, students will be required to purchase a subscription to Clavier Companion Magazine, which includes both the print and digital editions, for an additional cost of $18. Students will also be assigned additional method books for their elementary methods project presentation.

Program Learning Outcome

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of piano pedagogy, including the fundamentals of teaching methods, materials, and strategies for pre-college age students. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Recognize and evaluate effective teaching methods for pre-college piano students
• Demonstrate good teaching skills through in-class teaching experience and outside observations
• Develop plans for administering an independent teaching studio
• Develop strong communication skills
• Examine and evaluate intermediate- and early advanced-level piano literature
• Develop strategies for teaching intermediate-level piano students
• Become familiar with resources and materials for the independent piano teacher
• Understand technical approaches and music wellness issues related to intermediate and advanced piano students
• Conduct research in the field of piano pedagogy

Throughout the course, students will engage in written and oral assignments that compare and critique different piano teaching methods. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to gain practical experience by teaching beginner piano students.

Course Schedule

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of piano pedagogy, including the fundamentals of teaching methods, materials, and strategies for pre-college age students. The course is organized into the following 14 weeks:

Week 1: Establishing a Teaching Philosophy and Studio Policies
Week 2: Building Effective Teacher-Student Relationships
Week 3: Curriculum Planning for Beginner Piano Students
Week 4: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners
Week 5: Teaching Adults and Special Considerations
Week 6: Developing Musicianship and Problem-Solving Skills
Week 7: Designing and Implementing Effective Practice Techniques
Week 8: Developing Technique in the Studio
Week 9: Teaching Artistic Touch and Phrasing
Week 10: Integrating Theory, Rhythm, and Ear Training in the Studio
Week 11: Utilizing Technology in Piano Instruction
Week 12: Developing Stylistic Understanding and Performance Techniques
Week 13: Group Piano Instruction and Collaborative Learning
Week 14: Submitting a final Pedagogy Portfolio

FINAL EXAM: The final exam will be scheduled during the last week of the course, and will consist of a written and practical component that assesses the student's understanding and application of the course materials.
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Dr. Archie Chen is a Sony Classical Recording Artist
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