Episode Overview

In this episode of the Piano Pedagogy Podcast, host Jacqueline Beckoff delves into the transformative concept of Yearly Themes for both music students and teachers. Drawing inspiration from YouTuber CGP Grey, Jacqueline presents a compelling alternative to traditional New Year's resolutions, advocating for a more holistic and sustainable approach to personal and professional growth.

Throughout the episode, Jacqueline shares practical strategies for implementing Yearly Themes within a music studio setting. From guiding students to identify areas for musical improvement to empowering teachers to refine their pedagogical approaches, this episode offers a wealth of actionable insights. Join Jacqueline as she explores the power of focused intention, mindful practice, and the profound impact of embracing a year-long journey of growth.

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

Episode Notes

The Power of Yearly Themes

• Yearly Themes vs. New Year's Resolutions: Jacqueline contrasts the often-rigid nature of resolutions with the flexible and forgiving framework of Yearly Themes. Resolutions often lead to a sense of failure, while Yearly Themes encourage continuous progress and adaptability.
• CGP Grey's Influence: The concept of Yearly Themes is adapted from YouTuber CGP Grey's insightful video on the pitfalls of resolutions and the benefits of a broader, year-long focus.

Applying Yearly Themes to Students

• Identifying Areas for Growth: Students, typically aged 11 and above or those with sufficient experience, reflect on their musical strengths and weaknesses to choose a specific area for improvement (e.g., rhythm, dynamics, sight-reading, memory, etc.).
• Creating a Visual Reminder: Students create a personalized poster displaying their chosen theme (e.g., "Year of Dynamics 2025") to serve as a constant reminder and motivator throughout the year.
• Monthly Check-ins and Accountability: During monthly workshops, students share their progress, fostering a sense of community and accountability. They discuss the choices they've made that have either helped or hindered their progress.
• Year-End Reflection: Students record a video at the beginning of the year detailing their chosen theme and goals. At the end of the year, they revisit this video to reflect on their progress and identify areas for continued growth.

Empowering Teachers with Yearly Themes

• Choosing a High-Level Focus: Teachers select a broader theme related to their teaching methodology or studio goals (e.g., composition, lesson planning, incorporating music history, etc.)
• Guiding Daily Decisions: The chosen theme serves as a guiding principle, influencing the teacher's daily choices and shaping the overall direction of their studio.
• Embodying Educational Values: Yearly Themes allow teachers to proactively implement their core values and create a more enriching learning environment for their students.
• Jacqueline's "Year of Composition": Jacqueline shares her personal experience with her "Year of Composition" theme, detailing how she created a dedicated composition workshop and integrated composition activities into her lessons.

Benefits of Yearly Themes

• Mindful Practice and Teaching: Encourages a more conscious and deliberate approach to both learning and teaching.
• Consistent Progress: Fosters steady growth over time, rather than sporadic bursts of effort.
• Ownership and Accomplishment: Empowers students and teachers to take ownership of their goals and celebrate their achievements.
• Engaging Learning Environment: Creates a more dynamic and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Episode Recap

This episode of the Pedagogy Podcast provides a powerful framework for fostering growth and achieving meaningful goals in the music studio. Jacqueline's insightful exploration of Yearly Themes offers a refreshing alternative to traditional New Year's resolutions, empowering both students and teachers to embark on a year-long journey of focused improvement.

Join Jacqueline next time for more valuable insights and expert advice on all things music education. Share your thoughts and experiences with Yearly Themes on the 
Defined Music Teacher Facebook page!