Episodes

In this podcast episode, musician and educator Pam Pike shares experiences from her youth and beyond that inspired her to become a piano teacher. In this impactful conversation with host Craig Sale, Pike reflects on her career paths and the role of piano teachers in today’s world. Tune into the Piano Inspires Podcast to hear […] Source

Join host Leah Claiborne as she interviews pianist Michelle Cann, who serves as the Eleanor Sokoloff Chair in Piano Studies at the Curtis Institute of Music. Cann reflects on her wide-ranging career, beginning with her musical family, continuing on with her studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music and the Curtis Institute, and concluding with […] Source

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Alvin Chow and Angela Cheng join host, Andrea McAlister, to discuss their musical journeys. Chow and Cheng share memories of their inspirational teacher, Menahem Pressler, and reflect on their philosophies about teaching. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation with Alvin Chow and Angela Cheng! Source

In this episode, host Yeeseon Kwon is joined by Dr. E.L. Lancaster, who reflects on a remarkable career that has shaped piano pedagogy worldwide. From his early lessons in rural Tennessee to leading innovations in group piano teaching, curriculum development, and publishing, Lancaster shares stories of mentorship, collaboration, and the pursuit of making music accessible […] Source

Pianist, educator, and Piano Adventures co-creator Dr. Randy Faber joins Jennifer Snow to discuss sparking intrinsic motivation, nurturing creativity, and helping students discover the artist within. An inspiring conversation on how piano teaching can transform lives and communities. Source

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, Craig Sale is joined by Samantha Coates who shares her journey from traditional piano lessons to becoming an innovative educator, author, and advocate for making music learning more engaging. She discusses the power of humor in teaching, the importance of creativity in piano education, and how her […] Source

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, special guest and technology guru Dr. Mario Ajero joins host Alejandro Cremaschi, as they explore how technology transforms piano education. From the rise of online lessons to the evolution of digital tools, he shares insights on how teachers adapted during COVID-19, the benefits of remote learning, and […] Source

Host Andrea McAlister is joined by Leila Viss, who shares how creativity, curiosity, and flexibility can transform piano education. She discusses the power of improvisation, adapting lessons to students’ needs, and encouraging exploration beyond the written score. Tune in for inspiring insights on making piano learning more engaging and dynamic. Source

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, Dr. Gail Berenson reflects on the transformative role of mentorship in piano education. She shares personal stories about the teachers who shaped her journey, the importance of guiding the next generation, and how collaborative learning creates lasting impact. With insights on pedagogy, musical growth, and lifelong learning, […] Source

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, Jennifer Snow is joined by Courtney Crappell who discusses the evolving world of piano education and the power of lifelong learning. He shares how starting piano later in life shaped his approach to teaching, the importance of breaking down complex skills, and how embracing different musical traditions […] Source

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, host Pamela Pike is joined by Dr. Barbara Fast, who shares her journey from a musically rich childhood to becoming a leader in piano pedagogy. She reflects on the experiences that shaped her teaching philosophy, the importance of mentorship, and how educators can inspire students through engaging […] Source

In this episode, Dr. Rochelle Sennet shares her journey as a pianist, educator, and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in classical music. She reflects on the importance of representation in piano education, her discovery of Black composers like George Walker, and how she fosters inclusivity in her teaching. Join us for an inspiring conversation […] Source

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, Scott McBride Smith shares his unique journey in piano education and his perspectives on the evolving world of music teaching. As a leading pedagogue and advocate for creative, student-centered learning, Scott explores the changing landscape of piano education and how teachers can adapt to new challenges. He […] Source

In this insightful episode, host Sara Ernst is joined by special guest Penelope Roskell, acclaimed pianist, pedagogue, and author of The Complete Pianist, who shares her wisdom on nurturing resilience, artistry, and a love of music in students. Roskell reflects on her journey as a performer and teacher, the transformative power of music, and her […] Source

In this inspiring episode, Jessica Johnson, professor of piano and pedagogy at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, shares how mindfulness and music transform lives. From her rural North Carolina roots to a career of teaching and advocacy, Jessica reflects on the piano as a source of healing, joy, and connection. She discusses overcoming perfectionism, empowering students […] Source

Join host Artina McCain as she interviews Anton Nel, South African Concert Pianist and Professor of Piano and Chamber Music at Butler School of Music – University of Texas at Austin. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Nel’s teaching philosophy, the importance of nurturing creativity in students, and his passion for period instruments like the […] Source

Host Andrea McAlister welcomes award-winning jazz pianist, composer, and educator Jeremy Siskind for an inspiring conversation on jazz, piano pedagogy, and the art of improvisation. Explore Jeremy’s innovative teaching methods, his passion for connecting classical and jazz traditions, and his journey as a musician shaping the future of piano education. Source

Martha Hilley, Group Piano and Pedagogy Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus, shares her inspiring story on this episode with host Artina McCain. Listen to Hilley reflect on her long career at the Butler School of Music, her advice for young professionals, and her love for group piano and pedagogy. Source

Irish-born pianist Peter Mack is a nationally renowned performer, clinician, and convention artist, and the 2023-25 MTNA President. Listen to Peter Mack and host Andrea McAlister discuss Mack’s piano journey, his introduction to piano teaching, and the future of music and MTNA. Source

Catherine Rollin is a pianist, composer, clinician, author, and teacher of prize-winning students. Her more than 400 published pedagogical compositions are recognized worldwide for their combination of musicality and “teachability.” Join host Pamela Pike and guest Catherine Rollin as they discuss Rollin’s piano journey, the inspirations behind her compositions, and her passion for teaching. Source

This episode features Sean Chen, pianist, composer, and arranger, playing with audiences around the world in solo and chamber recitals, concerto performances, and masterclasses, after having won the 2013 American Pianists Awards and placing third at the 2013 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Listen to this conversation between host Sara Ernst and Sean Chen as […] Source

This episode features Midori Koga, a prominent soloist and chamber musician with the Haven Trio, and is the founder of the University of Toronto Piano Pedagogy Program. Join Koga and host Andrea McAlister as they discuss the future of piano pedagogy, and how to inspire students to find their voice and maintain motivation. Source

This episode features Pete Jutras, award-winning professor and educator, and current Dean of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Listen to host Jennifer Snow interview Jutras as they discuss his introduction to piano pedagogy, his career focused on education, and advice for budding pianists and teachers. Source

Join host Jennifer Snow as she interviews Dennis Alexander, who has an international reputation as one of the world’s most prolific and popular composers of educational piano music for students at all levels. Listen to Alexander’s start to the piano, his path as a composer, and the advice he shares for students and composers. Source