Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Part II: La Mantovana branches into the major key [Printables]
Not only did trained musicians love the original Twinkle music (called La Mantovana), but so did folk musicians. As the music spread across Europe in the 18th Century, it transformed and changed in several fascinating ways. In this post we explore versions that kept features of the original tune but changed from the original minor to major. … continue reading →
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Part I: The ultimate guide to this tune in our culture [Printables]
How much do you think you know about Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star? Maybe you have a good ear and have figured out that other children's songs share the same tune, like Baa, Baa Black Sheep, the Alphabet Song and perhaps even a German children's song about ducks not as well known in the English-speaking world. … continue reading →
Save time on lesson plans! 6 quick tricks to take piano lessons from Blah into TA-DA!
Piano lessons feeling blah lately? Learn quick tricks on how to create fun, effective "UN-planned" lessons that are flexible and student-centred. Your piano lessons will go from Blah to TA-DA! … continue reading →
Yoga for pianists: Ignite your mind-body connection for optimal posture and practice
Here is a curated suite of yoga practices for pianists and advanced piano students. Prepare the upper body, arms, wrists and mind to heighten your piano practice and make it more effective. There are suggestions for accommodating injuries. This blog post is designed for personal use by pianists and as a resource for teachers of advanced piano to share. … continue reading →
Top 5 most helpful posts of 2021 [Digest]
In this 2021 countdown I'm focusing on my top 5 pedagogical posts! If you're new to my blog and want a quick introduction to my most popular posts, or if you were busy at times through the year and missed some of these, here they are! … continue reading →
Early to Late Intermediate Piano repertoire of Rebekah Maxner, listed for ease of choosing
Intermediate pianists have reached a good level of proficiency and often have a clear idea of the music they'd like to learn. Pick pieces they'll love, and you'll keep them hooked on piano! This post comes with a free printable to help make it easy for you to select the very best pieces for your students at the right levels. Keep reading! … continue reading →
A piano composer's unique handprint: how playing shapes new music
Have you ever wondered how a piano composer comes up with ideas for new music? Three living composers, June Armstrong, Susan Staples Bell and Rebekah Maxner explain how their own playing experiences shape and sculpt their compositions. It's all in the human hand! You might find inspiration to create your own pieces! Please keep reading! … continue reading →
Piano Studio Business Claims: Things that spark joy can be claimed at tax time
Turn your piano studio wish list into your Christmas wish list. What you open up on Christmas morning can be exactly what you need for your business, and if you save receipts, can be claimed against your income tax! Keep reading to find out how! … continue reading →
DIY Snowflake Tree Ornaments: Gift and positive words wrapped up in one
Want to spread a little joy this season? Tell your students how unique they are by giving a snowflake tree ornament and card with the message, "Just like a snowflake, you are one of a kind". The card has room for a personal message! Get instructions on this simple, affordable craft and the link to the FREE printable with this blog post! … continue reading →