Blog

Guest Post from Professional Organizer, <a data-mce-href="https://www.sustainablesimplicityorganizing.com/" href="https://www.sustainablesimplicityorganizing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jen Heim</a>:<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;~

Piano Organization

AStarts July 13, 2024!Every summer in Portland, Oregon since 2013, an incredible organization called <a data-mce-href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/" href="https://www.pianopushplay.com/" title="PianoPushPlay" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PianoPushPlay</a> 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!<figure id="figure-ak5wpwdbielz7gy4ev"><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><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" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Tara Cochrane</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 requires dedication and patience. It takes at least 6 weeks to develop a new habit! Aim 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> Assignments are sent to the student after each lesson, 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.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. Come back to the piano when refreshed and try a few more repetitions.<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. 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.

Piano Practice - Set the Tone

<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.<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;<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.<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.<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 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, I'd love to know about it!&nbsp;Interested in learning to play? <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/registration" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register</a> for online lessons today! Looking for the coolest piano tees on the West Coast? Head to our <a data-mce-href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/portlandpianolessons/?etsrc=sdt" href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/portlandpianolessons/?etsrc=sdt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Etsy Shop</a>!

Best iPad Music Games for Kids and Adults

I've taught piano both in-person and online for 15 years and I've chosen <a data-mce-href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/registration" href="https://portland-piano-lessons.com/registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online-only lessons</a> because I've consistently found them to be more effective than in person lessons for most people. Students tend to learn more material per lesson and retain that material more effectively.I think that's due to a combination of the students being able to play on their home piano + the amount of playing back and forth that we're able to do because we're each sitting at a piano + the close up views of the keys and music that the camera is able to accomplish + the option for the student to do the whole thing in PJs lol.But this format is VERY new in the long history of piano teaching and that involves some adjustments.QUESTIONS1. What device should I use for the lesson? My first answer to this is: whatever you've got! If you have an <a data-mce-href="https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/ipad" href="https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/ipad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">iPad</a>, that can be particularly nice for younger kids especially. If your resources are plentiful, it's wonderful to have two devices available for lessons. Use your phone for the lesson call and have your iPad ready for reading digital sheet music and working with the APP.&nbsp;2. &nbsp;Where do I put the phone/tablet/laptop? Ideally, close to your face with a good view of your hands. I'm going to get into the details more in the Challenges section.&nbsp;CHALLENGES1. Playing duets - This is, for me, the biggest bummer of online lessons. It's nearly impossible to play duets together.&nbsp;The primary purpose of teacher duets with the student is to challenge the student to be able to continue to play their part while other notes and rhythms are playing. While I will go on continuing to miss live duets, the <a data-mce-href="https://pianoadventures.com/resources/piano-adventures-player-app/" href="https://pianoadventures.com/resources/piano-adventures-player-app/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Faber app</a> has each of those duets recorded with multi-instrumental tracks that the students play along with regularly. Because of that app, people get more duet-playing time than ever before and can access it all week long.2. Technical difficulties: hearing/seeing each other well - I bet you already know a lot of tricks for this... closing out any other open apps on your device, restarting your WiFi if needed and even restarting your device if needed tends to get our video reception where it needs to be.&nbsp;For FaceTime folks, there's a fairly new audio setting that can make a world of difference.&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/this-hidden-iphone-setting-makes-your-facetimes-sound-clearer/" href="https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/this-hidden-iphone-setting-makes-your-facetimes-sound-clearer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">During a FaceTime call, open the Control Center and make sure the audio setting is "Wide Spectrum."</a>&nbsp; Once you've set it, it'll remain until you change it.3. Seeing students' technique &nbsp;- This part is really just a matter of camera set-up. As I mentioned earlier, it's great to have options:<figure id="figure-qm2zabvjvjltj24vem"><img id="qm2zabvjvjltj24vem" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2BeQ1O59q2HwlffGV53x4KKYosCnaSlEofoquypRMgmfDMrW0lI4czeUpiMa2ydT.jpg" alt="Piano student smiling at teacher during online piano lesson" 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/2BeQ1O59q2HwlffGV53x4KKYosCnaSlEofoquypRMgmfDMrW0lI4czeUpiMa2ydT.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Front view. This can be accomplished by simply resting your tablet/phone on the piano music stand. It's excellent for teaching sheet music and/or book assignments, helping students 6 and under read their music, and relationship-building with students of all ages.<figure id="figure-kbkjh9xd2iltj261p5"><img id="kbkjh9xd2iltj261p5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dE20G8RX7d4IE5bJuBXyIgq2b30WXIGHRgpT54idnKyYZ2xaBalJEqHje4b569O.jpg" alt="Piano." 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/2dE20G8RX7d4IE5bJuBXyIgq2b30WXIGHRgpT54idnKyYZ2xaBalJEqHje4b569O.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Side view. For this, you'll likely need a stand. If there's a table near your piano, <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/MoKo-Tablet-Foldable-Multi-Angle-Holder/dp/B017TU5KMQ/ref=sr_1_6?crid=28X5NXLJOUPFL&amp;keywords=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop&amp;qid=1694724705&amp;sprefix=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop%2Caps%2C173&amp;sr=8-6&amp;th=1" href="https://www.amazon.com/MoKo-Tablet-Foldable-Multi-Angle-Holder/dp/B017TU5KMQ/ref=sr_1_6?crid=28X5NXLJOUPFL&amp;keywords=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop&amp;qid=1694724705&amp;sprefix=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop%2Caps%2C173&amp;sr=8-6&amp;th=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a tabletop stand </a>could do the trick. If you'd like a bit <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/AboveTEK-Business-Aluminum-Professional-Showroom/dp/B07KJLBG8G/ref=sr_1_16?crid=28X5NXLJOUPFL&amp;keywords=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop&amp;qid=1694724705&amp;sprefix=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop%2Caps%2C173&amp;sr=8-16&amp;th=1" href="https://www.amazon.com/AboveTEK-Business-Aluminum-Professional-Showroom/dp/B07KJLBG8G/ref=sr_1_16?crid=28X5NXLJOUPFL&amp;keywords=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop&amp;qid=1694724705&amp;sprefix=phone%2Btablet%2Bstand%2Btabletop%2Caps%2C173&amp;sr=8-16&amp;th=1">more flexibility from your tabletop stand, this is a good option</a>. You can also setup a side view <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Elitehood-Holder-Microphone-Aluminum-Adapter/dp/B08S2WKKNS/ref=sxin_16_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.1c86ab1a-a73c-4131-85f1-15bd92ae152d%3Aamzn1.sym.1c86ab1a-a73c-4131-85f1-15bd92ae152d&amp;crid=1MAB55PX10FJT&amp;cv_ct_cx=mic+stand+phone+tablet+holder&amp;keywords=mic+stand+phone+tablet+holder&amp;pd_rd_i=B08S2WKKNS&amp;pd_rd_r=2b8015c0-9701-45ab-bed3-13c28eab3f76&amp;pd_rd_w=GyVy9&amp;pd_rd_wg=wcbdf&amp;pf_rd_p=1c86ab1a-a73c-4131-85f1-15bd92ae152d&amp;pf_rd_r=B8QGDASG3EBKW2WAJ54V&amp;qid=1694724570&amp;sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&amp;sprefix=tablet+phone+holder+mic%2Caps%2C194&amp;sr=1-2-364cf978-ce2a-480a-9bb0-bdb96faa0f61-spons&amp;sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9zZWFyY2hfdGhlbWF0aWM&amp;psc=1#customerReviews" href="https://www.amazon.com/Elitehood-Holder-Microphone-Aluminum-Adapter/dp/B08S2WKKNS/ref=sxin_16_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.1c86ab1a-a73c-4131-85f1-15bd92ae152d%3Aamzn1.sym.1c86ab1a-a73c-4131-85f1-15bd92ae152d&amp;crid=1MAB55PX10FJT&amp;cv_ct_cx=mic+stand+phone+tablet+holder&amp;keywords=mic+stand+phone+tablet+holder&amp;pd_rd_i=B08S2WKKNS&amp;pd_rd_r=2b8015c0-9701-45ab-bed3-13c28eab3f76&amp;pd_rd_w=GyVy9&amp;pd_rd_wg=wcbdf&amp;pf_rd_p=1c86ab1a-a73c-4131-85f1-15bd92ae152d&amp;pf_rd_r=B8QGDASG3EBKW2WAJ54V&amp;qid=1694724570&amp;sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&amp;sprefix=tablet+phone+holder+mic%2Caps%2C194&amp;sr=1-2-364cf978-ce2a-480a-9bb0-bdb96faa0f61-spons&amp;sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9zZWFyY2hfdGhlbWF0aWM&amp;psc=1#customerReviews" target="_blank" rel="noopener">by attaching a phone/tablet holder to a standing lamp</a>&nbsp;(or mic stand, if you're fancy :) ).Side view shows me the full picture of a student's technique, which includes not only their hands, but also their posture. It's also terrific for recording, whether I do a screen recording during the lesson or the student sets up their own device for recording.There's one other option that allows for all of the above and the only thing we miss with this is getting to check out posture:<figure id="figure-z1zo9v5jxltj27ypm"><img id="z1zo9v5jxltj27ypm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/33zcmefvLjrdhW6RzZCuZFs8kUWjNtd1wah8GYmS2lFDFOrQ9081YY1VrXFxxWUw.jpg" alt="Piano Student playing with round hands during an online piano lesson" 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/33zcmefvLjrdhW6RzZCuZFs8kUWjNtd1wah8GYmS2lFDFOrQ9081YY1VrXFxxWUw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Above/Front view. As you can see, this provides a great view of the hands and allows us to see and hear each other easily. This is the view I use most myself and is most easily accomplished with <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Gooseneck-Tablet-Holder-Kitchen-Toilet/dp/B09PV61484/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LK2F8M3WK0UT&amp;keywords=Gooseneck+Wall+Mount+Tablet+Phone+Holder+for+Bed+Kitchen+Toilet+Office%2C+Wall+Tablet+Phone+Stand%3A+Flexible+Arm+Clip+Tablet+Wall+Mount%2C+Compatible+with+iPhone...&amp;qid=1694816527&amp;s=electronics&amp;sprefix=gooseneck+wall+mount+tablet+phone+holder+for+bed+kitchen+toilet+office%2C+wall+tablet+phone+stand+flexible+arm+clip+tablet+wall+mount%2C+compatible+with+iphone...%2Celectronics%2C167&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Gooseneck-Tablet-Holder-Kitchen-Toilet/dp/B09PV61484/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LK2F8M3WK0UT&amp;keywords=Gooseneck+Wall+Mount+Tablet+Phone+Holder+for+Bed+Kitchen+Toilet+Office%2C+Wall+Tablet+Phone+Stand%3A+Flexible+Arm+Clip+Tablet+Wall+Mount%2C+Compatible+with+iPhone...&amp;qid=1694816527&amp;s=electronics&amp;sprefix=gooseneck+wall+mount+tablet+phone+holder+for+bed+kitchen+toilet+office%2C+wall+tablet+phone+stand+flexible+arm+clip+tablet+wall+mount%2C+compatible+with+iphone...%2Celectronics%2C167&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a stand attached to the wall behind the piano/keyboard</a>. TIPSFinally, a few tips:1. Setup before lesson: have all current piano books ready plus a pencil, a metronome if you use one and a bottle of water or other drink if you like.2. Keep assignments handy at the piano.3. Keep piano and the area around the piano clean of any items that aren't used for lessons/playing to increase focus both during lessons and practice.4. Have a plan for receiving and reading assignments... printing or writing them into your own notebooks works best for kids. Viewing digitally works well for adults!5. Have a plan for receiving and reading sheet music... printing or viewing digitally* (same notes as above) *if viewing digitally, it's helpful to have a way to write on the PDF &nbsp; If you experience a challenge with online lessons that I have't addressed, please let me know! I'd love to help you explore solutions!All the best, Sarah

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