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One thing new students often notice is that we talk during piano lessons.Sometimes it’s about music. Sometimes it’s about how practice went that week. Sometimes it’s about school, work, or whatever is taking up space in their mind that day.This isn’t filler, and it isn’t accidental.Over the years, I’ve learned that conversation plays a real, practical role in learning — especially when someone is doing something challenging, vulnerable, or new.<h3>Learning doesn’t start at the keyboard</h3>Before a student can focus, read music, coordinate their hands, or experiment creatively, their body needs to feel steady enough to engage.That steadiness doesn’t come from pushing harder. It comes from feeling oriented, seen, and safe enough to try.As I’ve continued teaching and learning myself, I’ve been struck by how many different fields point to the same idea: <a data-mce-href="https://www.edutopia.org/neuroscience-brain-based-learning-emotional-safety" href="https://www.edutopia.org/neuroscience-brain-based-learning-emotional-safety" target="_blank" rel="noopener">learning happens best when the nervous system isn’t overwhelmed</a>. Music education, child development, trauma-informed teaching, and even athletic coaching all emphasize this in different ways.Conversation — when it’s used intentionally — is one way to support that regulation.<h3>What conversation does in a lesson</h3>Talking at the beginning of a lesson <a data-mce-href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/strategies-help-students-manage-transitions" href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/strategies-help-students-manage-transitions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">helps students arrive</a>.It gives them a chance to shift out of whatever came before — school, work, stress, frustration — and into the present moment. For some students, that takes thirty seconds. For others, it takes a few minutes.Conversation also helps me understand how to teach that day.A student who is tired needs something different than a student who is energized. A student who is discouraged needs a different approach than one who is eager to push ahead. Listening allows me to adjust the lesson so it stays productive without becoming overwhelming.And for students who tend to be hard on themselves, conversation creates space to normalize mistakes, curiosity, and learning as a process — not a performance.<h3>This isn’t therapy. It’s attuned teaching.</h3>Piano lessons aren’t therapy.But learning music does involve the whole person: body, attention, emotion, and effort. Ignoring that doesn’t make learning more efficient — it usually makes it harder.By <a data-mce-href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10453544/" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10453544/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">allowing room for conversation</a>, we’re not stepping away from the lesson. We’re making it possible for the lesson to work.Once a student feels settled, we move into playing, reading, technique, and creativity with far more clarity and momentum.<h3>What students often notice</h3>Many students — kids and adults — tell me that lessons feel calmer than they expected. More focused. Less rushed.They still work hard. They still practice. They still build real skills.But they also learn how to notice when something feels too fast, too tense, or too frustrating — and how to slow down and reset instead of pushing through.That skill carries far beyond the piano.<h3>Why this matters to me</h3>I didn’t always know how to name this part of my teaching. I just knew that lessons went better when students felt comfortable enough to be honest, curious, and imperfect.Learning more about how people learn helped me understand why it works — and gave me confidence to keep teaching this way.Conversation isn’t a distraction from music. It’s one of the ways we make learning music possible.<h3>Want to learn more?</h3>If this approach resonates with you, you can read more about how my online piano lessons work, or explore what a free trial lesson looks like.<ul><li><a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/howitworks" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/howitworks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How it Works</a> </li><li><a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/freetrial" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/freetrial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Free Trial Lesson</a> </li></ul>

Why We Chat: Conversation, Safety and Learning Piano

**This article applies the work of <a data-mce-href="https://www.raquelmartinphd.com/" href="https://www.raquelmartinphd.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Raquel Martin, PhD</a> to developing a sustainable piano practice routine.It’s the beginning of the school year and almost all of us - even those of us who don't attend school - have had a schedule shake-up. For pianists, that often means practice routines shift too. Old habits stop fitting, and it's time to build something new.There are many benefits a predictable piano practice routine, but one of my favorites is how much it reduces <a data-mce-href="https://www.healthline.com/health/decision-fatigue" href="https://www.healthline.com/health/decision-fatigue" target="_blank" rel="noopener">decision fatigue</a>. Every day asks us to make hundreds of choices, both large and small. Not having to decide when to practice piano frees up energy for actually learning.Consistency becomes a gift instead of another demand.Recently, I watched <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN4Crbhjowo/" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN4Crbhjowo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a short video</a> from <a data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/@RaquelMartinPhD" href="https://www.youtube.com/@RaquelMartinPhD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Raquel Martin, PhD</a>, that put words to something I've been talking about with students for years: the difference between capacity and discipline. It's an important distinction, especially when you're building or rebuilding a practice <a data-mce-href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6378489/" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6378489/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">routine</a>.<h3>What I mean by "capacity"</h3>Capacity is how much a student has to give on a given day. It's shaped by things like sleep, stress, illness, school demands, emotional load, and basic needs like food and rest. When we ask for more than a student has to give, practice quickly turns into a battle. Progress slows, frustration rises, and learning becomes harder than it needs to be. Respecting capacity doesn't mean lowering expectations. It means working with the nervous system instead of against it, which is what allows real progress to happen over time.<h3>Dr. Martin's Video</h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN4Crbhjowo/" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN4Crbhjowo/" title="Capacity vs Discipline" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Martin's video is under three minutes, and I recommend it to teens and adults in particular.</a>. Some younger students may benefit as well. <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN4Crbhjowo/" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN4Crbhjowo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Here's the link.</a> <figure id="figure-p8odzfhgojmf7o6aw8"><img id="p8odzfhgojmf7o6aw8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aMIDXDeSJ2UYBDZLQox4nQJsR3yfPC7yxs1AbSaxL40zYxZIRyYHa4y0C4EZni4.jpg" alt="Dr Raquel Martin, PhD wearing red heart glasses and holding a notebook that says Burn the Cape is mid speech and the captions say That doesn't sound like a discipline issue." title="Dr Raquel Martin, PhD wearing red heart glasses and holding a notebook that says Burn the Cape is mid speech and the captions say That doesn't sound like a discipline issue." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aMIDXDeSJ2UYBDZLQox4nQJsR3yfPC7yxs1AbSaxL40zYxZIRyYHa4y0C4EZni4.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Don’t have 2:54? I got you! Some key takeaways from Dr. Martin’s video:Q: “What’s the difference between discipline and capacity?” A: “Discipline is about structure, and your ability to stay consistent with a choice. Capacity is about whether your nervous system and energy can actually handle what you’re asking of yourself.&nbsp;…Discipline is a muscle. Capacity is whether you’ve eaten, slept, grieved, rested or recovered enough to lift the weight.&nbsp;…Capacity means checking in: Do I have the energy, focus and support to do this today without abandoning myself?&nbsp;…and when the task is still within your ability but you still avoid it, procrastinate or resist it because it brings up discomfort like it’s hard or awkward or boring - that’s the sign of a discipline challenge, not a capacity issue.”Q: “Okay, but how do I fix this in real life?” A: “Capacity gets addressed with care: more rest, less pressure, nervous system support, rebuilding from burnout.Discipline gets addressed with support, clear goals, accountability, reduced decision fatigue.”Q: “What does this look like in the day to day?” A: “So for capacity:eat lunch without multitasking cancel one thing that drains you but isn’t urgent sit for 10 minutes in quiet before your day starts say “I need more time” and mean it.”Q: “Okay, and what about for discipline?” A: “For discipline:set a time for five minutes and start choose three tasks not 12 use visual cues and routines to reduce decisions and hold yourself accountable with compassion not shame.”“One preserves your energy (capacity) the other guides your effort (discipline). …Care first, structure second.”“Capacity = fuel Discipline = structure You need both, but not in the same way”&nbsp;<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" data-mce-selected="1"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>She's brilliant, right?<h3>Why this matters for piano practice</h3>Learning piano takes more energy than people realize. Concentration, coordination, listening, emotional regulation, and problem-solving are all happening at once.In online lessons, I frequently work with kids who’ve been home sick from school but attend their piano lesson, and they typically struggle with learning in that state. I see the same thing with student who are stressed, grieving, or simply hungry. Even when the motivation is there, learning is harder when capacity is low.There's also a cultural piece here. In the U.S., we live in a culture that <a data-mce-href="https://pulsealign.com/10-reasons-people-neglect-their-health-until-it-reaches-a-critical-point/" href="https://pulsealign.com/10-reasons-people-neglect-their-health-until-it-reaches-a-critical-point/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">encourages us to ignore our capacity</a> and focus on productivity. We often get more badges of honor <a data-mce-href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jesscording/2023/12/12/new-survey-shows-many-workers-arent-taking-a-lunch-break/" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jesscording/2023/12/12/new-survey-shows-many-workers-arent-taking-a-lunch-break/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">when we we're productive while our capacity is low</a>. So listening to your limits can feel countercultural, even rebellious. It's also one of the most effective ways to build a sustainable relationship with learning.<h3>Supporting capactiy alongside discipline</h3>As you build or adjust your practice routine, consider adding a habit to your piano practice habit that increases your capacity. This is sometimes called <a data-mce-href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/habit-stacking" href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/habit-stacking" target="_blank" rel="noopener">habit stacking</a>. You could add something like:<ul><li>making a cup of tea before practice that's ready for you when you finish playing</li><li>eating a snack just before you sit down to play</li><li>taking a short walk before or after practice</li><li>allowing time to rest before returning to the piano</li></ul>Small acts of care can dramatically change how practice feels. More energy often means more joy, focus and consistency.<h3>Want to learn more?</h3>If you’re curious about how capacity connects to emotional safety and learning, you might enjoy reading <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/why-we-chat--conversation--safety-and-learning-piano" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/why-we-chat--conversation--safety-and-learning-piano" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Why We Chat: Conversation, Safety, and Learning Piano</a>. And if you’d like to see how these ideas show up in actual lessons, you can learn more about how online piano lessons work <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/howitworks" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/howitworks">here</a>. However you found your way here, I’m glad you’re thinking about learning in ways that are sustainable, humane, and real. <table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 11.112%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.112%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.112%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.112%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.112%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.112%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.112%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.112%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.1094%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.1094%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.112%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.112%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.1094%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.1094%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.112%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.112%;"> </td><td style="width: 11.1094%;" data-mce-style="width: 11.1094%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>

Piano Practice: Capacity vs Discipline

One of the questions I hear most often from families is how to make piano practice feel easier at home. This guest post is written by <a data-mce-href="https://www.sustainablesimplicityorganizing.com/" href="https://www.sustainablesimplicityorganizing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jen Heim</a>, whose daughter takes lessons with me. She shares the simple, practical systems they use to keep music materials accessible and reduce friction around practice.<img id="gtson5ng3eom22figdh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10rQlGgTH0r0wFtKqf1aWXgUwMBMMY0HSugFBHw2LPVJaUl4adK53t9iu4uvIqTb.jpg" alt="piano keys" title="piano keys" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10rQlGgTH0r0wFtKqf1aWXgUwMBMMY0HSugFBHw2LPVJaUl4adK53t9iu4uvIqTb.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;">My daughter is currently taking online piano lessons, from a wonderful instructor Sarah Collins at Portland Piano Lessons. To facilitate her musical learning, I set up a Piano Station in our house so she could quickly and easily access everything she needed.&nbsp;Here are a few of the things I considered to keep the station organized and make music lessons effortless:Organizing Baskets: My first step was to add accessible storage right next to the piano. Vertical storage tends to work best for paperwork (so nothing ends up at the bottom of the pile), so I added baskets to the wall where she could reach them. &nbsp;If you have multiple musicians in the house, each family member can have their own basket. Alternatively, categorize baskets for technology, sheet music, and notebooks. The key to effective organization is to place items where you instinctively seek them and takes the least amount of effort to put away.Note, my daughter practices in the same location she takes her lessons. &nbsp;If that is not the case for you, I would recommend having a dedicated bag that can bring the necessary books and papers/binder back and forth.&nbsp;Corralling Loose Songs: One of the amazing things about Sarah Collins at Portland Piano Lessons is that she encourages her students to play the songs they enjoy as well as compose their own music. &nbsp;(My daughter also likes to choreograph dances to the songs she writes and it is so fun to watch!) &nbsp;As a result, we have a whole pile of miscellaneous printed songs or other miscellaneous musical notes. &nbsp;A binder has worked as an excellent tool for organizing these compositions. &nbsp;Device Setup &amp; Accessibility: Keep all necessary equipment within reach. &nbsp;In our case, the instructor has us utilize a piano app and lessons are done virtually, so it is essential to have a device handy. &nbsp;We have this eyesore of a plug right next to the basket, which actually comes in super handy as it allows us to charge the device right where we keep it.In addition, we have a drawer close by that keeps all of our various chargers. This does not need to be fancy (we used some cardboard as dividers) but it does need dividers to prevent cords from tangling.&nbsp; Labeling is also key to prevent the typical “Where’s the charger?” panic! &nbsp;If you have to spend more than a second looking for something then distraction and lack of motivation can quickly interfere. &nbsp;Luckily for us the drawer where we keep our chargers was already right next to Piano Station, but if not feel free to keep the charger right in the bin.&nbsp;Essential Accessories: Make the most of your lessons and make sure that everything needed is nearby. &nbsp;Keep a reliable writing instrument and a dedicated notebook nearby for jotting down notes and tracking progress.&nbsp; Daily Reminders - Even the most accomplished musicians benefit from a gentle nudge now and then. &nbsp;Consider setting up a schedule that includes short, focused practice sessions. Make daily reminders to practice until it become routine. Consistency can work wonders, and it ensures that piano practice becomes a delightful part of the daily routine. A valuable tip: make it a habit to declutter every few months. For those with children, you're likely familiar with how quickly a tidy space can transform into chaos. One moment, everything is neatly organized, and the next, it resembles a whirlwind! Therefore, it’s essential to retain only the necessities in the activity area. Consider relocating outgrown music and books to a storage box for future nostalgia—after all, who doesn’t enjoy revisiting a classic tune?Creating an environment that encourages creativity and learning is key. Celebrate small victories to keep motivated. Whether it’s mastering a tricky piece or completing a lesson, acknowledging progress can boost confidence immensely. Remember, the goal is to make learning piano a joyful journey, full of discovery and fun! ~ Jen Heim is a Professional Organizer in Portland, Oregon at <a data-mce-href="https://www.sustainablesimplicityorganizing.com/" href="https://www.sustainablesimplicityorganizing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sustainable Simplicity Organizing</a>. &nbsp;Sustainable Simplicity Organizing's goal is to help you feel peaceful and calm through the process of decluttering and implementing practical organizing solutions. &nbsp; If your space is stressing you out, Sustainable Simplicity Organizing can help you take a personalized step by step approach at decluttering the excess. Experience the joy of getting organized and taking the time to enjoy what matters most……like piano! &nbsp;~ ﻿Every family's setup looks a little different, and it doesn't need to be perfect to be effective. Even small changes can make it easier for students to sit down at the piano and get started. If you're curious how organization, routine, and capactiy all work together in piano learning, you may also enjoy reading <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/piano-practice--capacity-vs-discipline" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/piano-practice--capacity-vs-discipline" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">about how I approach practice and pacing in lessons.</a>

Piano Organization

In Summer 2024, Portland Piano Lesson hosted a citywide piano scavenger hunt in collaboration with <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/">PianoPushPlay</a>. Photo credits: <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">pianopushplay.com</a>.<figure id="figure-ak5wpwdbielz7gy4ev" class=""><img id="ak5wpwdbielz7gy4ev" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fiuZsA8aMQ8m7a3jTgME1jS9BEK05HarPIQ6Xv5fv2ijPdKdirkSOiK3KdnPPyCt.png" alt="person with braided hair and white daisy dress plays upright piano painted pink and black and covered in painted flowers plus the words " title="person with braided hair and white daisy dress plays upright piano painted pink and black and covered in painted flowers plus the words " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fiuZsA8aMQ8m7a3jTgME1jS9BEK05HarPIQ6Xv5fv2ijPdKdirkSOiK3KdnPPyCt.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Every summer in Portland, Oregon since 2013, an incredible organization called PianoPushPlay places pianos on sidewalks and in parks all around town.From the <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/about-piano-push-play" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/about-piano-push-play" title="About PianoPushPlay" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PianoPushPlay website</a>: “But these are not your average, plain Jane instruments. Each piano has been given new life by an artist who has transformed it into a wonderfully unique creation. From outlandishly vibrant sculptures to poetically painted panels, each piano has its own distinct personality. ...At summer’s end, when the air turns crisp, we find new homes for each piano in schools and community centers to be played all year long. It’s a rewarding project that welcomes new opportunities for collaboration and a deeper sense of community through interactive art.”This year, <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/" title="Portland Piano Lessons">Portland Piano Lessons </a>is joining in the fun by offering prizes to students as well as the general public for playing as many pianos as possible!<h3>How to Play</h3>1. You're welcome to use the map on the <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/piano-map" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/piano-map" title="Piano Map" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PianoPushPlay website</a>. The pianos will move throughout the summer(!) but this map will always tell you where they are.2. Play the piano. Even if it's only one key - the piano has to be played to count.3. Send proof. Record a video of you playing the piano. Then, post your video to <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/portlandpianolessons" href="https://www.instagram.com/portlandpianolessons" title="PPL Instagram" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or <a data-mce-href="https://www.facebook.com/PortlandPianoLessons/" href="https://www.facebook.com/PortlandPianoLessons/" title="PPL Facebook" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a> and tag @portlandpianolessons.4. Only one entry per piano per day. One point will be given for each entry.5. The 3 students and 1 person from the general public who have earned the most points by the end of summer (when they put the pianos away) will each <a data-mce-href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PortlandPiano" href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PortlandPiano" title="PPL Etsy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">win the t-shirt of their choosing from the PortlandPiano Etsy Store</a>.<figure id="figure-hxp2c9bc3lz7h4eu3"><img id="hxp2c9bc3lz7h4eu3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bLudVegHAAnvTZgOOaZeXVCLsibIETecdTfip1p1BLDrYLQVZFe7rA3t5aC7z0r.jpg" alt="blonde boy in light blue collared shirt playing red piano that says " title="blonde boy in light blue collared shirt playing red piano that says " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bLudVegHAAnvTZgOOaZeXVCLsibIETecdTfip1p1BLDrYLQVZFe7rA3t5aC7z0r.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>FAQ</h3>1. Can I play and send videos from all 9 pianos in one day and get a point from all 9 (9 points total)? &nbsp; -Yes!2. Can I walk to the same piano 9 different times in one day and send you 9 videos and get 9 points? &nbsp; -No, that would count as 1 point. One point per piano per day.3. Can I walk to the same piano every day and send a new video for a new point? &nbsp; -You bet!4. Can I take my books with me and do my piano practice at the piano? &nbsp; -Absolutely. ...unless there's a line of folks waiting lol.5. How often do they move the pianos? &nbsp; -I don't know. ...yet.6. When will they move the pianos? &nbsp; -We'll be finding out the answer to this together!7. Can I set a hat out and collect money while I play? &nbsp; -This is actually the question the students have asked the most LOL. As far as I know, the answer is Yes.<figure id="figure-0x6o9fv4vmklz7h5owk"><img id="0x6o9fv4vmklz7h5owk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22DwKXHsrgMIKCmgKiQSvicNa8vshW69cVtPMEorpH803V4PRc2p03DkFaRN4QwY.jpg" alt="man with sunglasses plays grand piano with sculpted lips above and below the keys and bright pink and blue poles extruding from the body of the instrument" title="man with sunglasses plays grand piano with sculpted lips above and below the keys and bright pink and blue poles extruding from the body of the instrument" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22DwKXHsrgMIKCmgKiQSvicNa8vshW69cVtPMEorpH803V4PRc2p03DkFaRN4QwY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>On your mark... get set... GO PLAY!</h3>The Portland Piano Scavenger Hunt starts July 13, 2024 and ends when the air turns crisp. Go Play (and record and tag ;) )! <h3>Check out this Year's Artists</h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.theangryflorist.com/" href="https://www.theangryflorist.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Angry Florist</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/cat-wolf-bear" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/cat-wolf-bear" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cat Wolf Bear</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/christine-claringbold" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/christine-claringbold">Christine Claringbold</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.behance.net/AbhinayaS" href="https://www.behance.net/AbhinayaS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Color Tickle</a> <a data-mce-href="https://hunteresmon.myportfolio.com/" href="https://hunteresmon.myportfolio.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hunter Esmon</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.juliaalexis.art/" href="https://www.juliaalexis.art/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Julia Alexis Hunkler</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.laika.com/" href="https://www.laika.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LAIKA</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.byrebeccarook.com/" href="https://www.byrebeccarook.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rebecca Rook</a> <a data-mce-href="https://straightawaycocktails.com/" href="https://straightawaycocktails.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Straightaway Cocktails </a>x <a data-mce-href="https://www.vineandthistle.com/" href="https://www.vineandthistle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alicia Schultz</a> <a data-mce-href="https://www.taracochrane.com/" href="https://www.taracochrane.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tara Cochrane</a> by Sarah Collins, Portland Piano Lessons Owner and TeacherRegister today for your <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/registration" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Free Trial Lesson</a>!

First Ever PORTLAND PIANO Scavenger Hunt

<h3>Make it a Habit</h3>Practicing is a skill in itself and developing a consistent practice routine involves dedication and patience. It takes at least 6 weeks to develop a new habit! The goal of practice isn't to push harder each day, but to set a a tone your body and brain can return to easily. Try to play at the same time each day and start small. Consistency is more important than absolute time spent. Music - especially the physical conditioning side of things - cannot be “crammed.”<h3>Guidelines</h3><a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/howitworks" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/howitworks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Assignments are sent to the student after each lesson,</a> so there are guidelines about which exercises and songs should be played each week. I encourage my students to practice for repetitions rather than for time. In other words: play each of your assignments three times during each practice session rather than committing to playing for 15 minutes. Practicing for repetitions helps students stay focused without needing to push through fatigue.While there's no need to set a timer, it can be good to know that early assignments can be completed in approximately 5 minutes per day, 4 days per week. As the student advances, the assignments will lengthen, as will the capacity to improvise, compose and play repertoire pieces - so time spent practicing naturally increases as well.<figure id="figure-r3oui9uu3lz7gbqzy"><img id="r3oui9uu3lz7gbqzy" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/99arbTVls338vFu6BoMSyyz4e63x1BpmY40NixkxGdErSC4pMeaQMwNVm4L3iDc9.jpg" alt="a young girl plays piano with round hands and guitars behind her" title="a young girl plays piano with round hands and guitars behind her" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/99arbTVls338vFu6BoMSyyz4e63x1BpmY40NixkxGdErSC4pMeaQMwNVm4L3iDc9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Repetition</h3>Focused repetitions are the name of the game when it comes to learning music and technique. Change things up as you repeat: close your eyes, play softer or louder, faster or slower, etc. Stretch your body in between and get up anytime you feel inclined. <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/piano-practice--capacity-vs-discipline" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/piano-practice--capacity-vs-discipline" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Come back to the piano when refreshed</a> and try a few more repetitions. Stopping before frustration sets in is more effective than pushing through.<h3>Fun</h3>Take time to have fun every time you play! You got into piano to enjoy playing so make sure you're taking time to actually enjoy playing! If there's nothing you particularly like on your practice sheet, play an older favorite song, do some improvisation or learn some chords for a new favorite song.<h3>For the Littles</h3>Students ages 4-7 will likely need and benefit from a parent practicing with them each day. Helping them read the assignments, reminding them of technique goals, and offering words of encouragement makes a big difference over time! There’s no need to try to “teach piano” during these practice sessions. <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/why-we-chat--conversation--safety-and-learning-piano" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/blog/why-we-chat--conversation--safety-and-learning-piano" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Your presence matters more than connecting notes</a>.People of all ages can benefit from visual reminders and rewards for practice. Whether it’s a scheduled phone reminder or an activity chart; a night out to celebrate three months of lessons or a new Squishmallow to celebrate 6 weeks of regular practice -- find ways to show yourself that your music studies are meaningful and worthwhile. If you'd like support buliding a practice routine that fits your life, you're welcome to reach out or <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/freetrial" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/freetrial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">try a lesson</a> to see how it feels in real time.

Piano Practice - Set the Tone

These apps aren't meant to replace practice or lessons. They're tools I recommend to support rhythm, reading, listening, and musical curiosity - especially on days when traditional pracitce feels like a stretch.<h3>Happy Spring Break, Folks!</h3>Whether you're hanging out at home or travelling by planes/trains/automobiles, I thought you might enjoy some iPad music games! Most of these were actually created by piano teachers in one of my <a data-mce-href="https://www.facebook.com/search/groups/?q=piano%20groups&amp;sde=Abo6mQGTwumSH8ghiQqAvvjPX7NFviMO4wSBhxr6grIQwUayjg5k0ye5FNdIS2HCiLkkJOB-TfP5YV29lVJ9zt3H" href="https://www.facebook.com/search/groups/?q=piano%20groups&amp;sde=Abo6mQGTwumSH8ghiQqAvvjPX7NFviMO4wSBhxr6grIQwUayjg5k0ye5FNdIS2HCiLkkJOB-TfP5YV29lVJ9zt3H" target="_blank" rel="noopener">piano Facebook groups</a> and I'm excited to share them with you.<h2>Web-Based Games</h2><h3>SproutBeat</h3><figure id="figure-hrzs80x8jdlu91nqx8"><img id="hrzs80x8jdlu91nqx8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24gFRj1f7JvvYnnfi8FA6FXSYf81Mbabs9lVscw2ETsR0ImlyDXhLHUUGIEskBX2.png" alt="sproutbeat.com home page" title="sproutbeat.com home page" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24gFRj1f7JvvYnnfi8FA6FXSYf81Mbabs9lVscw2ETsR0ImlyDXhLHUUGIEskBX2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>I want to first acknowledge that not everyone has an iPad and that even folks who do often prefer web-based games. The tricky thing about many web-based games is the ads. The site I see music teachers recommending the most - which was developed by music teachers in our group - is <a data-mce-href="https://sproutbeat.com" href="https://sproutbeat.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sproutbeat.com</a>. SproutBeat has over 50 free music games with no ads!&nbsp;<h2>Rhythm &amp; Reading Builders</h2><h3>The Most Amazing Sheep Game</h3><figure id="figure-261qhkrwidlu91qoxf"><img id="261qhkrwidlu91qoxf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1daeuzEO0F51Ya381DQrIjhbFEYGOdl931uGWV7CAPRvTIg8u0sFKnUU13kVStu4.png" alt="The Most Amazing Sheep Game Level 1" title="The Most Amazing Sheep Game Level 1" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1daeuzEO0F51Ya381DQrIjhbFEYGOdl931uGWV7CAPRvTIg8u0sFKnUU13kVStu4.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-most-amazing-sheep-game/id550921301" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-most-amazing-sheep-game/id550921301" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Most Amazing Sheep Game</a> (or T-M-A-S-G as it reads on the iPad lol) is a favorite among piano teachers. It is one of the best builders of musicality, rhythm and piano technique of any iPad game. It's easy to learn and play for kids as young as 4 and an effective skill-builder for all ages. It's also just FUN.Costs $.99 and there are no in-app purchases.<h3>Rhythm Trainer</h3><figure id="figure-txwtw2mscrlu91voa7"><img id="txwtw2mscrlu91voa7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22kjHav4ldalBNPHENAoBvghsDAgcw3wD4Som3mQjHfnGNft4WQKLlNFZ1kO14UC.png" alt="Rhythm Trainer iPad Game level 1 quarter notes" title="Rhythm Trainer iPad Game level 1 quarter notes" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 45% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="45%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22kjHav4ldalBNPHENAoBvghsDAgcw3wD4Som3mQjHfnGNft4WQKLlNFZ1kO14UC.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 45% 45%;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/music-rhythm-trainer/id1319997438" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/music-rhythm-trainer/id1319997438" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Music Rhythm Trainer</a> is the full title of this app and what it lacks in bells and whistles it makes up for in killer rhythm training. You don't just tap rhythms that you hear, you get to see/read them at the same time which builds the most important element of music reading. This one is consistently recommended by piano teachers and is a great addition to both kids and adults practice time! Ages 4+.The game is free with the full game available as an in-app purchase for $4.99.<h3>Staff Wars</h3><figure id="figure-19thmy0qr8lu91yv36"><img id="19thmy0qr8lu91yv36" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36P0dNk9CTz1vFk425UKZDEeDemxbT0AqUV6p0jARTdbZ2pbbb84atvvIq7e8Ush.png" alt="Staff Wars iPad game Level 1" title="Staff Wars iPad game Level 1" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36P0dNk9CTz1vFk425UKZDEeDemxbT0AqUV6p0jARTdbZ2pbbb84atvvIq7e8Ush.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/staffwars/id810405576" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/staffwars/id810405576" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Staff Wars</a> is a favorite among teachers of all instruments because you can focus on reading one clef at a time. It reminds me a bit of the old Parsec game and was created by a piano teacher from my group, just like T-M-A -S-G. The game says it's for 4+ but most kids that young haven't begun learning the staff. Within my studio, I'd recommend it for students ages 5 and up.Costs $1.29 and there are no in-app purchases.<h3>NinGenius</h3><figure id="figure-k6h6ark4wnlu92ljx6"><img id="k6h6ark4wnlu92ljx6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27FSeMCMDpZJq0iBkSmw1YdcA88Gf02e3P99ehuTpQQccC6riXgtdpyI3zc1FVeA.png" alt="NinGenius iPad game Level 1" title="NinGenius iPad game Level 1" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27FSeMCMDpZJq0iBkSmw1YdcA88Gf02e3P99ehuTpQQccC6riXgtdpyI3zc1FVeA.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ningenius-piano/id1478974717" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ningenius-piano/id1478974717" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NinGenius</a> has been around for awhile and kids tend to love it. It is maybe my least favorite to play of all of these, and that is maybe why it is so appealing to kids lol. It is an extensive music theory course that allows students to work up to a black belt in multiple areas. Teachers and students alike highly recommend this one.The cost is $.99 and there are no in-app purchases.<h2>Ear-Training &amp; Listening</h2><h3>Earpeggio</h3><figure id="figure-www54wpnvglu92opbl"><img id="www54wpnvglu92opbl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bFN1kvMkuQwud0uYmRC1LVq5SBUDD4eIQ495GFh2gBTFTuBVAxhXA4qHSc2XOby.png" alt="Earpeggio iPad music game level 1" title="Earpeggio iPad music game level 1" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bFN1kvMkuQwud0uYmRC1LVq5SBUDD4eIQ495GFh2gBTFTuBVAxhXA4qHSc2XOby.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earpeggio/id884775105" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earpeggio/id884775105" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Earpeggio</a> is a terrific ear-training app that teachers have been recommending for years now. Aural skills are a huge part of music training and most of us aren't getting enough time in this area. One of my professors always said "listen three times as much as you play" - a difficult task, especially with the amount of focus needed. I'll go so far as to say: ear-training apps are essential for budding musicians. The next two games are also exclusively ear-training apps.This app is free with no in-app purchases.<h3>Fuctional Ear Trainer</h3><figure id="figure-vaq38f4nklu92qyok"><img id="vaq38f4nklu92qyok" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17wG5ZTdTg4RAEPbNqVG6Y6F3a3AxuJjSMuDDP32UYSlh6RMD6EbUq8KfHdY935T.png" alt="Functional Ear Trainer iPad music game" title="Functional Ear Trainer iPad music game" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17wG5ZTdTg4RAEPbNqVG6Y6F3a3AxuJjSMuDDP32UYSlh6RMD6EbUq8KfHdY935T.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure>As you can probably guess from the photo and the title, <a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/functional-ear-trainer/id1088761926" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/functional-ear-trainer/id1088761926" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Functional Ear Trainer</a> is not gamified like a lot of the others games in this email, but it's easily one of the most powerful skill builders. It teaches pitch recognition (playing by ear) through solfege (do, re, mi, fa...) and emphasizes the relationships between the notes. I'll be playing this entire game to brush up my skills and highly recomend it to students and their families. Ages 4+.Free with no in-app purchases.<h3>Complete Ear Trainer</h3><figure id="figure-hnduof4m1flu92uoc8"><img id="hnduof4m1flu92uoc8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0KY1CuDx22mFZdKaGFpsXVX0YlyPa3yc2zp1ZzquG4g4OkmcdKWqPe2PcNVtz0tv.png" alt="Complete Ear Trainer iPad music app main screen with view of first 5 levels" title="Complete Ear Trainer iPad music app main screen with view of first 5 levels" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0KY1CuDx22mFZdKaGFpsXVX0YlyPa3yc2zp1ZzquG4g4OkmcdKWqPe2PcNVtz0tv.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/complete-ear-trainer/id1012455471" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/complete-ear-trainer/id1012455471" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Complete Ear Trainer</a> is an excellent ear-training app that gives one of the best visuals of intervals - the building blocks of every melodic and harmonic thing we do as musicians. We study intervals throughout the Piano Adventures books and that makes this app a great practice time activity for both kids and adults.The game is free but access to the full version is an in-app purchase of $5.99.<h3>Wimbo</h3><figure id="figure-rzfrym3salu92xlr2"><img id="rzfrym3salu92xlr2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35YhpIfzD7J3nSz2S1URzjEZdl48iSdiaqhhuVAoiq3mvajMuWBhYtybpQBOZvat.png" alt="Wimbo piano tutor iPad music game level 1 baby chick walking toward the letter C with keyboard at bottom of screen" title="Wimbo piano tutor iPad music game level 1 baby chick walking toward the letter C with keyboard at bottom of screen" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35YhpIfzD7J3nSz2S1URzjEZdl48iSdiaqhhuVAoiq3mvajMuWBhYtybpQBOZvat.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/learn-music-wimbo-piano-tutor/id1630555349" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/learn-music-wimbo-piano-tutor/id1630555349" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn Music: Wimbo Piano Tutor</a> is the full game title and it features this chick (pictured above) who has the cutest walk and the funniest dance moves. Also designed by a teacher from our group and also truly excellent and so fun. Covers sight reading, rhythm, ear training, keyboard geography, notes and chords and has no ads. For ages 4+.The app is free with an in-app purchase of $4.99 for the full game.<h2>Composition &amp; Creativity</h2><h3>My Singing Monsters</h3><figure id="figure-v5t76er37lu9307fg"><img id="v5t76er37lu9307fg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36RX2P9l21f06dGVIusnAiifYdhNWgUPXyNa2j4E1ZPxNmMm7fAY9OyogJ4WonJA.png" alt="My Singing Monsters iPad music game " title="My Singing Monsters iPad music game " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36RX2P9l21f06dGVIusnAiifYdhNWgUPXyNa2j4E1ZPxNmMm7fAY9OyogJ4WonJA.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-singing-monsters/id521671873" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-singing-monsters/id521671873" target="_blank" rel="noopener">My Singing Monsters</a> is a bit of an outlier lol. It was not developed by a teacher as far as I know and doesn't teach you to read music or improve your rhythm. But. This game has been talked about in our group quite a lot because of the ways it helps kids fall in love with composition. More than one teacher has posted that they're getting new students who are interested in composition from day 1 and the commonality is that these kids have all been playing My Singing Monsters.This game is free but has multiple opportunities for in-app purchases. There are so many more music games out there. I hope you enjoy any of these that look interesting to you and if you find one you like that's not on this list, <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/contact" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/contact" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I'd love to know about it</a>!&nbsp;

Blog

Why We Chat: Conversation, Safety and Learning Piano

Piano Practice: Capacity vs Discipline

Piano Organization

First Ever PORTLAND PIANO Scavenger Hunt

Piano Practice - Set the Tone

Best iPad Music Games for Kids and Adults