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40 pieces “Coffee Card” and where to find more repertoire

by Tim Topham

As you already know, I’m a huge advocate for having my students learn as many pieces as possible each year, with a studio benchmark of 40 pieces for all students. In fact, I have no hesitation in saying that playing LOTS of repertoire is probably the most crucial element in a music student’s development and I’m ... 40 pieces “Coffee Card” and where to find more repertoire

03/22/2013 Read more

The Classical Piano Method – Heumann

by Tim Topham

I received a review copy of The Classical Piano Method late last year and have finally had a chance to sit-down and play through the pieces. For those of you who have seen it at conferences and in publishers’ trade books, I thought you might be interested to know how it might be useful in your ... The Classical Piano Method – Heumann

02/08/2013 Read more

New repertoire: David Nevue, Craig Armstrong, Kyle Landry and more

by Tim Topham

This post is simply about exposing other teachers to music that I’ve recently found online. The post is designed to be easy to scroll through, listen to YouTube clips, and if you like a piece, click any of the links to find the sheet music. Click on the name of the composer to go straight ... New repertoire: David Nevue, Craig Armstrong, Kyle Landry and more

01/12/2013 Read more

Finally! Digital sheet music copyright is starting to make sense.

by Tim Topham

In the digital age, music copyright has become harder for owners to control with everyone having access to copiers and scanners, tablets, computers and the internet. A quick Google search for any popular piece of music will bring up at least half a dozen sites from which you can download a free copy or transcription ... Finally! Digital sheet music copyright is starting to make sense.

11/14/2012 Read more

Music Copyright for teachers

by Tim Topham

I recently attended a presentation run by APRA/AMCOS specifically focussing on copyright laws for Australian music teachers. The session was very informative and answered many of my questions. Here are some of the details that may be of interest to other teachers: If you are using a work (composition, film, screenplay)  composed/written prior to 1955, ... Music Copyright for teachers

10/22/2012 Read more

“Connections” by Christopher Norton

by Tim Topham

I’ve posted regularly in the past about good music to keep boys inspired to learn piano and the latest instalment from Christopher Norton, his Connections Series, is definitely up to the task! Most importantly, Connections could well be a lifeline for students who may be considering giving up piano lessons – girls and boys. I ... “Connections” by Christopher Norton

05/25/2012 Read more
 

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The Firm Soundtrack – Dave Grusin

by Tim Topham

A colleague recently introduced me to the music from the movie “The Firm”. I haven’t seen the movie, but the music is great – energetic and fun, jazzy and bluesy. It is at the harder end of the spectrum – about Grade 7+ – and teenagers in particular will love it. At least one piece ... The Firm Soundtrack – Dave Grusin

02/04/2012 Read more

Repertoire Ideas

by Tim Topham

I recently purchased some new music you might be interested in exploring with your students this year. Firstly, have a look at The Virtuosic Performer. Just about all the pieces in Book 2 were fantastic and around Grade 2-3 level. Many of them sound and look amazing, but are actually quite easy to learn and ... Repertoire Ideas

01/27/2012 Read more

Left Hand Piano Music: Takeo TCHINAI

by Tim Topham

During my lay-off with an injured right hand last term, I took some time to investigate piano music for LH. I was already studying Chopin’s Etude Op 10 No 12, so that got a good workout, but I couldn’t believe how much great stuff has been written for just one hand! Even more impressive is ... Left Hand Piano Music: Takeo TCHINAI

01/05/2012 Read more

Why is “sad” piano music so popular on YouTube?

by Tim Topham

In my recent repertoire searches, I came across HEAPS of “sad piano music”. It seems that many YouTube composers have only one goal in mind: to make listeners cry – not sure why exactly! The first time I was introduced to this was after reading a list of someone’s ‘Top 10’ sad piano pieces (Google ... Why is “sad” piano music so popular on YouTube?

12/31/2011 Read more

How to find cool new repertoire for your students

by Tim Topham

As my regular readers will know, I’m a huge fan of finding new repertoire for my students. In fact, I believe it’s a job necessity! I predominantly teach beginners to around Grade 2 level, many of whom start learning in Year 7 (ie. 12-13 years old) and often without any prior musical training. I also ... How to find cool new repertoire for your students

12/19/2011 Read more

Soundscapes & Supersonics – more cool music for the boys!

by Tim Topham

If you’re looking for new music for your students and especially pieces that will instantly appeal to boys, check this guy out! Daniel McFarlane is a young composer from Brisbane who has been quietly writing some fantastic piano music that will suit all styles and tastes. If you and your students have enjoyed the work ... Soundscapes & Supersonics – more cool music for the boys!

12/18/2011 Read more