Piano Pedagogy Podcast Episode 11: Dynamics

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Piano Pedagogy Podcast, hosts Jacqueline and Arianne explore the concept of dynamics in music education and the nuances of teaching dynamics to students of varying ages and experiences. This conversation offers a wealth of strategies, personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into the psychological aspects of music teaching.

Watch it on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcasting app.

Episode Notes

Exploring Dynamics in Piano Pedadogy

  • Definition and Importance: Discussion on what dynamics mean beyond just volume, emphasizing its role in expressing musical emotion and storytelling.
  • Teaching Music Vocabulary: Strategies for teaching essential music vocabulary effectively to young learners, using intuitive and age-appropriate methods. 
  • Challenges in Teaching Dynamics: Both hosts reflect on the challenges they faced when they first began teaching dynamics, discussing the balance between providing too much and too little information to students.

Practical Methods and Pedagogical Philosophies

  • Visual and Kinesthetic Learning: The use of sound pictures and physical activities to teach music concepts, particularly dynamics and the spatial orientation of piano
    keys.
  • Adapting to Student Needs: The importance of adjusting teaching styles and content based on individual student backgrounds, learning styles, and physical characteristics such as left-handedness.
  • Teaching Strategies for Young Learners: The hosts discuss innovative methods to teach dynamics to younger students, such as associating dynamics with physical activities and using "sound pictures" to illustrate musical concepts.

Episode Recap

This episode of the Piano Pedagogy Podcast delves into the intricate details of teaching dynamics, the organization of music workshops, and the personalization of teaching methods to suit diverse student needs. Jacqueline and Arianne discuss the broad definition of dynamics, innovative teaching tools like sound pictures, and the psychological aspects of teaching music. They emphasize the importance of understanding each student's unique perspective and adapting teaching methods accordingly, to foster a more effective and empathetic learning environment. The hosts also share their own experiences and challenges, making this episode a valuable resource for both new and seasoned music educators.

Latest Posts


Piano Pedagogy Podcast Episode 18: Yearly Practice Themes

Tired of New Year's resolutions that fizzle out by February? In this episode of the Pedagogy Podcast, Jacqueline Beckoff introduces "Yearly Themes," a powerful concept borrowed from YouTuber CGP Grey, that can revolutionize the way you and your music students approach growth. Discover how to ditch the pressure of resolutions and embrace a year-long journey of focused improvement, both in your musical skills and your teaching practice.

Perceived Value: How much you can charge as a music teacher

A music teacher's perceived value, influenced by qualifications, offerings, and environment, directly impacts their pricing. Examining these factors can help teachers strategically enhance their value and command appropriate fees.

Piano Pedagogy Podcast Episode 17: Teaching Effective Practice

Practice is essential for every musician. On episode 17 of the Piano Pedagogy Podcast, we discuss how to effectively teach students to become excellent practicers.