Wednesday, December 9, 2015

UMTA Christmas

Tuesday's meeting was fun, even if lightly attended due to so many "other" activities at this time of year.   We were given the gift of  UMTA Conference Highlights!

Those in attendance enjoyed the Christmas cookies (great ginger snaps!!), crackers and dip, and Christmas salad while we watched the "Peek Into UMTA Studios" that had been presented at the state conference in November.  It was fun to talk about the many different ideas teachers use in their studios.  Even implementing one or two can make all the difference in YOUR studio.  (It did mine!)

There were handouts from some of the workshops held at Conference:

The Joy of Teaching The Untalented

Favorite Apps and Websites

Choosing Literature to Pique Student's Interest


We also had a demonstration of some of the more advanced technique and music being added to Piano Maestro.   Hanon, Czerny, and more.  It was a great reminder that this is an amazing app available FREE (for teachers and students of teachers) on Ipads (only).  It motivates students to practice much more than normal.  It's great for sightreading, rhythm practice, metronome practice, and SO much more!!

Piano Maestro - JoyTunes

There was also a "hands-on" section with play-dough.  It helped us see a very quick and effective way to help our youngest-to-oldest students get correct finger/hand position, and fluid wrist movement.

Play dough Ideas...

If you would like to watch the Studio Tour video, go to the UMTA website here:  Member Resources
Then click the link for Peek Inside UMTA Studios.  It's about 15 minutes long.

Hope to see you next month!   (Dr. Nancy Allred will be presenting her Top Five Technique Tips!)