In this episode, you’ll learn a functional framework on how to teach composing with your students, including a free printable handout to walk you through the creative process.

Our good friend Christopher Oill joins us to teach composing using his unique five-step compositional process.

And, in this show, he runs me through the whole process LIVE. No practice, no preparations – he teaches me how to compose on the spot.

Chris discusses and outlines his process step-by-step and gives you practical tips to implement in your creative teaching today.

Transcript of the Show

If you’d like to download a PDF transcript of this episode, please click below.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to teach composing:

• [03:08] Christopher tells us about his piano education and current studio.
• [03:46] What is the 5 Step Compositional Process?
• [05:17] How the process works for online lessons.
• [05:55] Tips on what teachers can do while listening to the podcast.
• [06:37] The overall view of the process.
• [08:23] Step One: Think
• [11:20] Chris and Tim come up with a composing idea.
• [13:02] Step Two: Outline
• [18:07] Step Three: Research
• [28:28] The process of creating melodies.
• [33:43] Step Four: Sketch
• [40:08] Tips for reviewing compositions of students.
• [42:12] Step 5: Shape
• [47:40] Using this process for kids.
• [49:08] Do students need to notate their music?
• [50:52] Christopher tells us about his 2 Newly released publications.

Links Mentioned

• Sink the Lighthouse YouTube Video
• Oill Piano Universe Website
• Oill Piano Universe YouTube Channel

Today’s Freebies on how to teach composing

Below, find a free fillable template very graciously written by Christopher Oill, walking you all the way through composing in five thought-provoking steps.

And listen to audio of two pieces Chris & Tim worked on:

 Sailing

 Basketball

TopMusicPro members will find the sheet music to these two pieces free — see member library resources.

About our Guest

Christopher Oill is an exclusive composer for FJH Music Company, a proud owner of the Oill Piano Studio and a concert pianist. In all of his teaching, performing and composing, he pushes the limits of innovation and creativity keeping the world of piano pedagogy fresh, inviting and exciting.

Today’s Sponsor

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Just make sure you try out some of the ideas before they get lost in the business of your next lessons!

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