Thursday, July 1, 2021 by Anita Byers | Group Piano

Two years ago I attended a 3-day group piano summer training in Texas.  That workshop solidified my decision to shake up my studio and move to group classes.  Looking back on that decision I made in the summer of 2019, I’m now seeing the dramatic results with those students who stuck it out and adapted to these changes.   

• My students play so much more rhythmically.  One of the benefits of meeting in groups is that we do a lot of playing together.   Duets, trios and ensembles are all a regular part of our classes.  This has developed a strong sense of rhythm and steady beat in my student’s playing.   

• It’s more fun!   Musical skills and fundamentals are taught using group games and activities that are fun to experience with others.  

End of year music escape room

• Group piano establishes a sense of group spirit that naturally increases motivation.  Everyone is practicing more!

"I like spending time with the other players" --Olivia

• Their performance skills are much improved. Rather than only performing once or twice a year at recitals, students are performing for each other in a relaxed environment every week.

• They are becoming independent learners. They are learning through observation, team work, and problem solving under my guidance instead of me holding their hand through each and every note.   

"I enjoy learning all the different songs and being able to have lessons with other people." --Paige

• I can offer longer lesson times which gives more time to learn new music with my guidance along with adding in composing, improvisation, lead sheets, music theory games and music apps.

• They are learning the skills of playing in an ensemble.  This is especially valuable for those who wish to go on to play in band, choir or even provide music for church services and/or praise band.

Interested in my piano room setup?  Watch the studio tour video here.