About us
We are the world's most inspirational and innovative online learning community for music teachers of all instruments and voice.
Our Mission
We empower instrumental music teachers to find and nurture their innate creativity so they can teach lessons that are innovative, integrated and inspiring and that will have a positive, life-long impact on their students.
the fantastic 4
topmusic pillars
Student-Centered Approach
Empowering students in their learning process is crucial for their self-motivation and long-term commitment to music. Modern pedagogy has shifted from a teacher-led model to an inquiry-based learning approach, emphasizing curiosity over mere information delivery.
Creative Teaching
Flexibility and creativity are essential in holistic music lessons. Encouraging students to create and improvise regularly helps them develop beyond traditional skills like reading and performance. Creativity in teaching is achievable and enjoyable for all teachers.
Question-Centric Teaching
Encouraging an exploratory and curious approach through asking questions rather than dictating helps students think critically and make connections. Teachers should ask questions, wait for answers, and allow students to engage deeply with the material.
Integrated Teaching
Integrated teaching helps students see connections between different musical elements, fostering a deeper understanding. Traditional linear and segmented teaching methods often fail to show these connections, but simple, effective tweaks can enhance integration in music lessons.
making learning music meaningful
integrated music teaching
A student-centered way of teaching instrumental and vocal music lessons. Teachers help students make deep connections between musical elements in their repertoire using creative “integration” activities that strengthen understanding and enhance memory.
The full Picture
a more holistic approach to teaching
For too long, instrumental music education has been held hostage by the traditions of teaching in the 1800s with its strict focus on music reading, interpretation and performance.
At topmusic.co we’re working hard to break these shackles and support teachers as they venture into the often unchartered territories of a modern approach to music teaching: improvising, composing and playing by ear.
These modern approaches are vital because comprehensive music teaching music is much more than learning to read dots on a page.
Reading and performing music is just the tip of the iceberg.
At topmusic.co we’re working hard to break these shackles and support teachers as they venture into the often unchartered territories of a modern approach to music teaching: improvising, composing and playing by ear.
These modern approaches are vital because comprehensive music teaching music is much more than learning to read dots on a page.
Reading and performing music is just the tip of the iceberg.
supporting modern teaching
A truly holistic and well-rounded musical experience should explore every aspect of being a musician: being able to jam with other musicians, accompanying, singing, reading lead sheets, composing, playing pop and jazz, playing by ear and much more.
Providing teachers the skills and support they need to confidently teach today’s busy, over-scheduled music students with a compressive, experiential curriculum is what we’re all about.
At topmusic.co, we help music teachers build a strong, sustainable studio business that will educate well-rounded, versatile musicians well into the future.
Providing teachers the skills and support they need to confidently teach today’s busy, over-scheduled music students with a compressive, experiential curriculum is what we’re all about.
At topmusic.co, we help music teachers build a strong, sustainable studio business that will educate well-rounded, versatile musicians well into the future.
Introducing
the PRESTO framework
The PRESTO Framework guides music teachers through all the steps they need to follow to build and run a successful music studio.
endorsed CDP training partner for
are you ready to streamline your teaching and business?
Join the preeminent professional development, learning, and networking community for instrumental music teachers.
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Since 2016, TopMusicPro has helped thousands of music teachers re-connect with today’s busy, overscheduled music students. We provide you with resources, guidance and expertise empowering you to create more meaningful music lessons.
Whether you are a new teacher wanting to start a music teaching studio, or a seasoned educator looking to refresh your approach, TopMusicPro membership is the key to unlock the creative teaching tools, business advice and support you need to become a more confident teacher and savvy studio owner.
Whether you are a new teacher wanting to start a music teaching studio, or a seasoned educator looking to refresh your approach, TopMusicPro membership is the key to unlock the creative teaching tools, business advice and support you need to become a more confident teacher and savvy studio owner.
Tim Topham
about our founder
Tim Topham is an internationally-renowned music educator, piano teacher, writer, podcaster and presenter. Tim’s passion is helping teachers maximise student engagement through creativity, technology and innovation whilst building sustainable, thriving studios.
He has more than 20 years’ experience in education, having taught in the United Kingdom and around Australia in subjects as varied as music, outdoor education, PE, mathematics and IT. Tim was consultant editor for the Australian Music Examination Board’s Piano for Leisure Series 4 books released in 2017, which involved selecting and editing 108 new pieces for student examinations across Australia.
His series was the first in Australia to feature creative practice ideas for improvising, exploring and composing to help students and teachers feel more comfortable being creative in lessons. Tim’s writing and training courses have been featured in American Music Teacher, The Piano Teacher, Californian Music Teacher, EPTA Piano Professional and the Journal of the MTAC, USA.
Tim loves cycling, coffee and learning how things work. He has trekked to Everest Base Camp and held certifications in fields as varied as pyrotechnics, laser operation, abseiling and remote-area first aid. Tim holds an MBA in Educational Leadership, BMus, DipEd and AMusA.
He has more than 20 years’ experience in education, having taught in the United Kingdom and around Australia in subjects as varied as music, outdoor education, PE, mathematics and IT. Tim was consultant editor for the Australian Music Examination Board’s Piano for Leisure Series 4 books released in 2017, which involved selecting and editing 108 new pieces for student examinations across Australia.
His series was the first in Australia to feature creative practice ideas for improvising, exploring and composing to help students and teachers feel more comfortable being creative in lessons. Tim’s writing and training courses have been featured in American Music Teacher, The Piano Teacher, Californian Music Teacher, EPTA Piano Professional and the Journal of the MTAC, USA.
Tim loves cycling, coffee and learning how things work. He has trekked to Everest Base Camp and held certifications in fields as varied as pyrotechnics, laser operation, abseiling and remote-area first aid. Tim holds an MBA in Educational Leadership, BMus, DipEd and AMusA.
behind the scenes
meet the team
Founder, CEO
Tim Topham
Tim's mission is to empower music teachers to create innovative lessons while enjoying efficient studio businesses. He is director of TopMusicCo, hosts the TopCast, and is an international keynote speaker and author. When he's not at work, he loves cycling and hanging out with his two cats Coco and Bronson.
Operations & Marketing Manager
Tara Wright
Tara Wright has nearly two decades of experience as a music educator and is the founder of Melodic Mentors. She creates resources and inspires other music educators by combining her expertise in running successful music schools with her background in web design, wedding planning, and ostrich farming. She is also the Operations Manager for TopMusic.
Content & Socials Manager
Georgina Wilson
Georgina Wilson is a piano teacher dedicated to making music education fun and engaging for both students and teachers. She owns BusyLittleTurtle, a quirky and creative resource for music teachers. Georgina coordinates content and socials for TopMusic. She combines her musical passion with innovative social media strategies.
Community Manager
Rebecca (Bec) Stewart
Rebecca Stewart has taught with Yamaha Music Education Centres from 1998 to 2018, served as a national teacher trainer, and published nine books in the "Sight Reading Secrets" series. She worked with Tim Topham to develop the TopMusic Certification program. Rebecca enjoys forum moderation, hosting Power Hour, and assessing certification at TopMusic.
Technology & Development Manager
Mauro Dalu
Mauro Dalu is a seasoned designer with over two decades of experience in crafting award-winning mobile apps and building WordPress-based websites. His work focuses on creating tools that empower users on their journey to self-improvement. Driven by a passion for problem-solving, Mauro continuously seeks innovative solutions to enhance user experiences.
Podcast Producer & Marketing VA
Timz Fojas
Timz Fojas is the podcast producer for the Integrated Music Teaching, TopMusicPiano, and TopMusicGuitar Teaching Podcasts. She handles marketing and administrative roles at TopMusic, showcasing her versatility and dedication. Timz is a proud mom of two boys, loves exploring new places, and aspires to travel extensively.
Graphic Designer and Customer Support Manager
Jill Muñiz
Jill Muñiz is the graphic designer and customer care guru at TopMusicPro. She brings smiles through her design work and exceptional customer service. Outside of work, Jill enjoys spending time at the beach with her family and running a printing and hydroponics business. Her passion for creativity and service shines through.
Evolution Community Guide
Rosemarie Penner
Rosemarie Penner is an educator, composer, writer, and clinician with a Bachelor of Education and an ALCM teaching diploma. She believes in continuous learning and exploring new ideas. Rosemarie enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and baking plant-based goodies. She founded The Unfinished Lesson, focusing on balancing life and creativity.
Publishing Director
Albert Mendoza
Albert Mendoza collaborates with a featured composer each month to produce a collection of educational piano pieces for TopMusicPro members. In his spare time, he runs, plays tennis, and studies French. His next big race is a 50-mile ultramarathon through the mountains overlooking Malibu. Albert brings dedication and energy to his role.
TopMusic Piano Podcast Host
Rachel Ehring
Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, and music administrator with a DMA in Collaborative Piano and an MM in Accompanying. She is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging lessons. Rachel enjoys reading with her son and walking her beagle Frieda. Her commitment to music education and her family is unwavering.
Community Guide
Anamarie Sabbagh
Anamarie Sabbagh has been teaching music since 1995 and has built a reputation as a premier studio for young learners. Her unique multinational background and fluency in multiple languages create a welcoming atmosphere that resonates within the community. Anamarie has presented internationally on her approach to both music education and studio management.
Co-Facilitator, Power Hours
Donna Hinkley
Donna Hinkley runs a private piano studio in Victoria, Australia. With over 20 years of experience, Donna focuses on fostering connections and joy through music. Specializing in fun, gamified learning, she supports neurodivergent students with customized lessons. Outside of teaching, Donna loves spending time with her family, cooking, reading, and experimenting with hair colors.
meet the experts
topmusic course creators
Our courses are created by today's leading instrumental teachers, bringing you expert-level advice and know-how for your teaching studio.
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