028: Music and Magic Journals with Tweena Vuong

Today, we have the pleasure of chatting with my good friend, Tweena Vuong. From her humble beginnings learning piano under the guidance of her father to stepping into the spotlight at just ten years old, Tweena's journey is nothing short of magical. Today, she has over 25 years of professional performance experience, ranging from concerts and musical theater to bands and choirs. Yet, her true passion lies in teaching and nurturing young talents at her music studio, SmartMuse Piano. Join us as we explore Tweena's inspiring story, the historical significance of her studio, and the creation of her unique Music and Magic Journal that transforms music lessons into a holistic, creative adventure for students. Whether you're an aspiring musician, a dedicated music teacher, or simply a lover of heartwarming stories, this episode promises to strike a chord.Tweena shared a brief background of her music studio and the historical significance of her location.She describes her current studio setup.She emphasizes the studio's mission of creating a safe and nurturing environment for students, integrating life lessons with music lessons.The story behind her Music and Magic Journal creation, its components and role in helping students organize and document their practice and progress.The journal's development and evolution.How her students use the journal for assignments and goal tracking.The impact of the journal and vision board to her students.How Tweena and her teachers use the journal for personal and professional goals.Tweena emphasizes the importance of music and magic in students' lives.Guest Links MentionedTweena Vuong's WebsiteSmartMuse Piano Instagram: @smartmusepianoSmartMuse Piano Facebook PageSmartMuse Piano Etsy PageExclusive Discount for Podcast ListenersAs a thank you to those of you who listened to podcast with Tweena Vuong and want to get their hands on a Music and Magic journal, here is a special discount code for 20% off your entire order.Click here and visit Tweena's website and use the discount code: MUSIC&MAGIC2024.This offer is only available here and valid until December 31st, 2024 or while supplies last.Today's GuestTweena Vuong's first piano teacher was her dad, who was self-taught. At just 10 years old, the organist at Tweena's church had to leave, creating an opening for a new accompanist. At the audition, there were those who doubted her young age and skills so her dad said, “Get over to that piano and play ‘A Whole New World’!” -- a song she had just learned -- and that's how it all began! Tweena has been performing professionally for more than 25 years now, from concerts to musical theater, bands, choirs, and hundreds of special events. But Tweena's real love is sharing this gift. She loves to teach, and gives 110% to her students to help them learn and reach their music goals. Now, she teaches at her music studio (SmartMuse Piano) in Santa Ana and is living her dream life- teaching kids, playing piano, making music, and having fun. She loves all noodles and cheeses.About Rachel EhringDr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.Visit her website at https://rachelehring.com/Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehringVisit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender MusicTOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.