124: What is the Right Way to Teach Group Piano?

After last week's conversation about transitioning to group teaching, I wanted to continue the discussion by exploring what group piano can actually look like. In this episode, I’m sharing the different group teaching models I've experienced, from preschool classes and piano labs to buddy lessons and multi-level groups, and why the best approach is the one that fits your students, your space, and your teaching style.Rachel explored several approaches to teaching group piano lessons.She shared how her view of group teaching has changed over the years.She explained how college piano labs differ from modern group studios.The value of adapting group lessons to your own teaching space.How preschool group classes build strong musical foundations.She explained how play-based activities support young beginners.How multi-level group lessons can combine individual and collaborative learning.The benefits of buddy lessons for selected students.Rachel encouraged teachers to add performance classes or practice labs to their studios.Links MentionedTMPP Episode 045: Preschool Piano for Better Business with Amy ElmoreTMPP Episode 047: A Review of Preschool Piano Methods with Abigail ProffittTMPP Episode 093: Debunking the Myths About Group Lessons with Jessica HomewoodTMPP Episode 112: Preschool Teaching and TopMusicLive with Laura KaharTMPP Episode 123: Making the Pivot to Group Teaching with Mandy GoldbachAbout 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 RachelEhring.comVisit her Instagram page: @rachelehringVisit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender MusicThank 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.TopMusicPro 14-Day Free TrialHeard about TopMusicPro Membership? As a valued podcast listener, I’d like to offer you a special chance to try our community free for 14 days. You can access a treasure trove of teaching resources, professional development courses, and creative lesson ideas. Click the link below to access your exclusive 14-day free trial for our Studio Membership.TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL