piano improvising
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Why chopsticks are more than just a handy eating utensil

by Tim Topham

One of the ways that I always stress that teachers can most easily and effectively build rapport with students and start creating a lasting relationship is by meeting them where they are at and finding out what new students can already do.

04/18/2016 Read more

Free Jazz Improvisation Course | Coursera

by Tim Topham

Ever wanted to learn more about jazz improvising? Here’s a free 5-week online course that you can take from your own studio and featuring one of the greats of jazz improvisation, Gary Burton from the Berklee College of Music.

01/08/2015 Read more

Teaching video: LH improv patterns for student compositions

by Tim Topham

I’ve had a lot of people ask me about teaching basic improvising, especially for their teenage and adult beginner students, so I thought I’d show you an excerpt from a lesson where I introduce left hand patterns that can form the basis for exciting student compositions.

09/08/2013 Read more

Teaching Video: Students improvising backing tracks for scales

by Tim Topham

Most students find scale practice pretty dull. So do I. in fact, I find teaching scales pretty dull too! What’s more, starting lessons with the same old, “Well, let’s hear how your scales have gone this week”, is not likely to inspire students if it’s the same greeting every single lesson.

09/03/2013 Read more