I started using Piano Safari in my studio five years ago. There are a lot of things I like about the curriculum and pedagogical approach—the emphasis on rote teaching and pattern-based learning, creative exploration and improvisation, an intervallic approach to reading, and repertoire that is expressive and captivating for young learners—but one of my favorite resources is their correlated sight-reading cards.

In this episode, I’ll share my 7-step teaching process for using these cards in lessons with elementary and early-intermediate students, and 24 creative ways to incorporate them into your teaching.

Aural skills (also known as ear-training) is a fundamental facet of musicianship. Learning to listen, identify, discern, and understand music without notation present helps us develop the inner listening skills needed to become well-rounded, well-versed musicians.

What kinds of aural skills experiences are we giving our students, of all ages? How can we incorporate aural skill activities in our weekly lessons?

I've done a little research on this and found several helpful resources for fostering the development of aural skills in private lessons (and at home) with students of all ages.

If you don't already include aural skill experiences in your teaching on a regular basis, I hope this inspires you as much as it has me!