Kay Blake
I'm a young at heart oldie :). I love all kinds of music and play classical piano. Interests include the arts, technology, science, psychology, and caring for and protecting nature.
Location Dorset, England UK
Activity
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I see that Rachel Cook (Educator) commented about this on 11th June.
It isn't possible to send in forms, unfortunately, and printing them out for completion is just for our benefit. -
Kay Blake replied to Pam Donaghy
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When you've completed all the sections in the week, you use the arrow next to where it says 'End of Week 1' and it takes you to Week 2. You can also access any week by selecting the blue tabs, as required, from the 'To do' option...hope this helps.
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Kay Blake replied to Mick Kelly
Maybe stage a mock exam, a taster for the real thing. Also, the Prep test is a good way to introduce the exam experience.
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Kay Blake replied to Mick Kelly
Great advice, Mick.
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I found 'handology' and 'footology'. I was curious after reading your comments, Petra and Patrick, so I entered these words in Google search - interesting :)
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Useful info, thanks for sharing.
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Yes, how we interact with one another is important and can influence learning. I agree, time is needed, as is patience. Too many people are in a rush, and much is overlooked as a result. Understanding and good communication will help pupils to progress on their musical journey.
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Kay Blake replied to Margaret Sikora
Yes, I think this is a good idea. I have, on occasion, revisited pieces from earlier, and they are often played better and with more confidence after time has passed.
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Kay Blake replied to Margaret Sikora
I agree with you Margaret, getting to know a pupil, and showing a genuine interest in them, really helps to form a good understanding of their lifestyle and other activities. It shows you care and gives you insight into the best way to teach the individual pupil and, hopefully, ensure their musical enjoyment and progress.
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I like this idea, although some pupils may be shy, or feel worried that their voice isn't good enough. The teacher could sing along with the child if he/she is anxious or uncomfortable, and gentle persuasion and praise for their efforts could help. Encouragement, as you say, is good and builds confidence. I think that many young pupils would benefit and enjoy...
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Kay Blake replied to Sally-Ann Potter
@Sally-AnnPotter It's true that keyboards are popular and can be more affordable. Also, they probably require less space and are easier to move around. The more expensive ones are particularly good. I agree, some aspects of technique are lost due to electronics and technology.
However, it is possible to buy reasonably good secondhand upright acoustic...
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Kay Blake replied to Sara Iranzad
Thanks Sara, I will take another look, a new approach could be good :).
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You did all you were able to do in the circumstances, such a shame that others couldn't/didn't do more for that child. Maybe, as it was some years ago, people weren't as enlightened or informed as they are today. Let's hope that he has more support now, and that his needs are appreciated and properly managed. I think it's great that you bonded with him and...
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Kay Blake replied to Sara Iranzad
This is interesting, thanks. I see quite a lot about Anna Artobolevskaya online, however, there doesn't seem to be an English translation of her music books. I have found books by Katrin Arefy, in English, and her teaching approach is similar - I wonder if you would agree or recommend this author?
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As you say, Lauri, music is a form of communication. Music can reach out and unite us in very special ways, and we can experience emotions of great love, joy, sadness and understanding. I couldn't imagine a world without music, it nourishes and enriches us all.
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Well said :)
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Kay Blake replied to Nicola Hunt
Very true, and I wish you all the best with this situation. The constant pressure to succeed and achieve could lead to failure and disappointment. I agree with you, it's not just about certificates and qualifications - it is not a race to the top! There are many other things to be considered and appreciated on this musical journey to true fulfillment and...
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I agree that progress will vary considerably, and this is just an example. The document gives an idea of what could reasonably be achieved over 5 years, and it is a very useful, organised guide to teaching and learning.
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Kay Blake replied to Monica Parsons
This sounds good to me. Also, it's not so daunting/frustrating for the student if he/she focuses just on the troublesome part, rather than continually play the whole piece only to get stuck at the same place each time.
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Kay Blake replied to Petra Pikula
I didn't know about this app so I've just had a look. It does seem to be popular, certainly worth considering.
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Like you, Gillian, I advertised in shops locally, using postcards. I also went online, to Vistaprint, where it is easy to design your own business cards etc and have them printed for a reasonable price. It's a good way to start and one thing leads to another, as they say !
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Kay Blake replied to JOHN SHARP
How lovely to know that your teaching is so well appreciated. I really value the little drawings and thank you cards that I have received, so pleasing to know that the young pupils are enjoying their lessons :).
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Kay Blake replied to JOHN SHARP
I think that's a good idea John, learning the same piece as your student puts you on the same level, and the task becomes less intimidating for the student. Sharing ideas and tackling any difficulties together shows empathy and helps to build confidence.
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Kay Blake replied to Anne Marie Kearney
I took a photo of the list, or you could do a screenshot of it.
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Kay Blake replied to JOHN SHARP
I'm glad that the family came to terms with it and acted accordingly, such a good outcome.
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Wow, wish I had been taught in such a way! Scales were a bit of a chore for me, although I quite liked arpeggios and broken chords :)
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Kay Blake made a comment
Being able to interpret the written musical score requires a knowledge and understanding of the theory, the way the piece is constructed. The composer has ideas of how he/she would like a piece to be interpreted, giving suggestions of speed, sound, accents etc. We are given the musical building blocks, along with guidance as to how to put them together. The...
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A great idea Althea, it must make them feel good to be creating, and they are thinking about what may sound right with your accompaniment - learning harmony and timing at the same time - sounds good to me :).
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All good ideas, I have tried most of these things and they really do help with the younger pupils. Using percussion is something I could try as well, thanks for that idea :)
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Kay Blake replied to Gemma Boyd
Very true Gemma, if the student isn't enjoying the lessons and is clearly unhappy continuing, for whatever reason, then it's probably kinder to let him/her go once you've established that is the best option. It is good, however, to leave the door open and say that he/she is always welcome back should there be a change of mind, or circumstances, in the future :)
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Kay Blake replied to Gemma Boyd
How awful for the girl, and how totally uncaring and irresponsible of her parents. I'm sure you did all you could in an impossible situation, and it's good that the girl felt she could confide in you. Yes, we have to know what to look for, and be sensitive to our pupils behaviour and needs. It sounds like you handled it well, and sadly, we can only do so much.
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Kay Blake replied to Sara Iranzad
What a great idea! It may not suit all students, but it certainly encourages creativity and independence. Also, your young student must have felt a real sense of achievement and satisfaction :)
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Kay Blake made a comment
This is a brilliant philosophy, heartfelt and sincere. Thank you, Mr Williams, for sharing your thoughts and ideas.
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Hello! It appears that I have left it extremely late in the course to add a comment here, however, here goes... I'm retired and now occasionally teach piano at home, which is in Dorset, England. I have enjoyed music over the years, achieving in piano and singing. Also, I have been a member of an operatic society, performing in 'Oklahoma' locally. I have played...
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That's a nice idea, it encourages the children to use their imagination, and to add to, or change, any expression marks already written into the music.
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All the best for your Grade 8, Suzanne, I remember the pieces I played for that exam, and I still have them. The love of music has brought us all together on this course. :)
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@CyrilE.O. I agree.
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Good luck Cyril !
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@EsterM Thank you, yes, I am still here, but almost at the end of this course. Best wishes :)
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Agreed, this course is so informative and useful. I have also downloaded everything for future reference :).
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Kay Blake replied to George Kontoprias
@GeorgeKontoprias efkcharisto :)
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Many good ideas here. Perhaps ask the younger ones for their suggestions, maybe they will surprise you! :)
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Kay Blake replied to George Kontoprias
Yes, it's much better when parents are genuinely showing interest in their child's progress, giving support and encouragement. As you say, trust in the teacher is good, but not wanting to know or be involved is just, in my opinion, cold and calculating. 'Look how well my child is doing'- Really? How would they know? Not a lot you can do regarding honest...
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I agree totally with Craig and Carolyn.
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Kay Blake replied to John Holmes
@JohnHolmes Thank you, this is very true and is good advice. We, as teachers, help our pupils to help themselves.
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Kay Blake replied to Sherrill -Ann Wilmot
Yes, Cyril, this is very true. However, I think that when we are young we need more guidance, because what we think we want, or don't want, is often influenced by attitudes and pressures from others. It takes time and maturity to realise what's of value and what really matters. As in all things, learning to find a balance is so important. As teachers, we can...
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Love it, you conjure up a fascinating picture :))
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Kay Blake replied to Susan Atkinson
Really good, makes sense to me. I Iike the idea of ending lessons on a positive note.
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@LeonieHain It's an achievement that your student has got that far, it can't be easy for him and you are doing a great job. I hope there is more help available regarding the theory aspect, maybe our educators on this course could advise. Best wishes.
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Excellent. This is a subject I feel to be important, and I have made comments reflecting on my thoughts and experiences when teaching children with different needs.
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Sounds great, and 'not only classical' is good too! That's a fair few instruments to be carrying around with you, in particular - the drums ?
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Social media can be used and, let's face it, we can't really ignore it, it's everywhere! However, I stand by my previous comments about this, and I feel that a separate professional media account is good and preferable, for personal and private security reasons. Actually, I don't have any Facebook , Twitter or Instagram accounts, although I do use WhatsApp!...
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Kay Blake replied to George Kontoprias
Yes, the mind can be tricked, and the flow of natural expression can be curtailed by technical details. A balance is called for, however, and I aim for creating a moving performance rather than a too technically rigid one. This is not an easy thing to get right, easier said than done!...and it's not that easy to put into words, although I try... :)
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Kay Blake replied to Andrew Sherlock
@GeorgeKontoprias I agree George, very well explained.
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Kay Blake replied to George Kontoprias
I think that feeling the music will aid good technique on all instruments, including the voice. As pianists we need to master a number of hand/finger exercises and patterns, along with learning how to use pedals correctly. Once we know how to get around instruments physically, then the mind will create the musical expression needed for a sensitive and...
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Agreed, a very basic start for a young pupil. I guess a child could be encouraged to add to these four notes, gradually creating a melody around them. The improvisation would come from the child's imagination, and the teacher could help to shape a little masterpiece :)
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Yes, there is a lot of info on this, and I second this request for it all to be brought together in a PDF, or maybe two. It would be helpful, if possible ?
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It is great, Carol, to see so many here from different countries, and yet we are all brought together by our love of music. We are united in our efforts to be good teachers, and this course has enabled us to learn, and communicate our thoughts with each other. Best wishes :).
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Kay Blake replied to Lucinda Pillow
If the students keep coming, and others return to you after breaks away, then you must be effective. It isn't always about gaining certificates. Progress can be slow, but if enjoyment and learning increase over time then you are doing a good job. I'm sure your students enjoy playing in a relaxed environment, and have a good and lasting appreciation of music.
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I think WhatsApp is a good idea for communication with parents, and I would consider using it in future. It is one of the few social apps that I find useful, and relatively secure. I have just become aware that there is a WhatsApp Business app, fairly recent I believe ?
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I think I know what you mean Suzanne, some will feel the music as they play, others won't. Maybe some pieces will draw out emotions more than others. I have found that when they find a piece they really like, they play it with more feeling and expression. Perhaps it's a balance between technical accuracy and creative flow that's needed.
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Good points Christine :). The lighting needs to be right, particularly if teaching when indoor lighting is necessary. The type of lighting used is important, and where the instrument is positioned can make a big difference.
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Kay Blake replied to Michael Steele
I agree, the teacher needs to guide the pupil and not lose sight of what is trying to be learnt or achieved during the lesson, formally or informally.
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@CarolynEvans Yes, I understand and totally agree with you. As already said, facts can be boring ...so I thought to mention books which are fun and suitable for younger pupils. Yes, tying the theory in with the practical is essential.
Sorry for any misunderstanding from my previous comment. -
There are many Theory books designed for younger pupils, they are informative, with fun puzzles and drawings. The children really enjoy working through them, using pencils and crayons. As they progress with their playing the theory relating to it is introduced, a small amount each lesson.
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Yes, I was taught those too. However, I have tried using other words, suggested by my young pupils, and I think it can help sometimes.
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I think that's a good idea. It wouldn't have to be a long composition, due to time restraints, but a short piece, eg 12 bars, maybe. Also, this would be great for the pupil, a chance to perform something he/she has written... a sense of pride and joy!
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Kay Blake replied to Chrystal Tan
@ChrystalTan I have had a pupil who left but later returned as she made it clear she wanted to resume lessons. I had said that she was always welcome to come back. Occasionally, a child doesn't take to it and it is better to let him/her go and be free to pursue other interests. Have a good chat with her parent to find out a bit more if possible. I hope for a...
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Kay Blake replied to Jill Rogoff
I managed to get a free hearing test, locally, which took 15 mins and everything was clearly explained and shown on the screen …pleased to say that my hearing is good, no problems. I also found an online test, but preferred to see someone who could look into my ears to check the eardrums etc.
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Kay Blake replied to Stephen Owen
I agree, the Prep Test is a great introduction to the examination experience, without the added pressure of a Pass or Fail. The pupil gains a certificate, along with constructive advice and credit where due.
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This is a tricky one! You would need to approach a difficult parent without antagonising or provoking him/her. I guess it requires a friendly and understanding approach, showing that you both want what's best for the child's musical progression and enjoyment. Not sure, but does this make sense?
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Kay Blake replied to Margaret Lee
@JillRogoff That's great Jill, it tells me you are a very successful teacher.
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Kay Blake replied to Margaret Lee
That's great Jill, it tells me that you are a very successful teacher.
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Writing the notes under the music is something I have done, in pencil, they can be erased when confidence grows!
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@SarahGlaccum Well done, Sarah, you deserve a pay rise for sure :)
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I never charge much, mainly because I haven't got letters after my name so I don't think it would be fair. I feel I can teach beginners and give them a reasonable start on their musical journey. I agree an amount with the parents, paid at each lesson. My qualification is Grade VIII Piano ABRSM.
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I enjoyed the short film, well worth watching.
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@GordonAttwood very true, Gordon
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It sounds like you did a great job, Fabien, it must have been so rewarding for you to see him progress and express himself. I wonder if you watched the short film about the young man with this syndrome?, there is a link to it included in a previous comment, dated 2nd July.
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Kay Blake made a comment
John, Jane and Rachel,
I thank you very much for this interesting and useful course. Many aspects of teaching have been explored in a professional and friendly way. It has been an enjoyable learning experience and your expertise and time is greatly appreciated. -
Kay Blake made a comment
This course has given me much to think about, and I have learnt a lot from it. It has covered different aspects of teaching, with good advice and information. It is up to me now to continue reading and learning from all parts of the course and, hopefully, I can be a better music teacher.
I've enjoyed the comments and discussions with so many interesting and... -
Patience and praise is good Marcela. Why not have a friendly chat with his parents/guardians, and mention any concerns you may have? I probably wouldn't ask whether he has special needs, as I would hope that you would be told this if it became necessary to know.
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@SyrKe Understood, still, I really hope changes are on the way. This extra pressure/stress on teachers can't be good if it means that their health suffers as a result of it, and the students wouldn't benefit from being with an overworked/stressed teacher ... Nobody wins !
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I know what you mean Ester, so many things to take into account before a professional diagnosis can/should be given. Too much information can be just as bad as too little. Small adjustments to lifestyle could make a difference to behaviour and receptiveness to learning. It isn't always clear as to whether a student has a special need or just has needs in a...
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Yes Jill, since reading about this I have, also, made an appointment for a free hearing test!
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Rebecca, I really like this and would certainly have a go at making it, well worth the effort ... Thank you!
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I watched this film and it reduced me to tears. It is brilliant and inspirational. The teacher in the film is amazing in learning about, and adapting to, his new pupil, and the understanding between them is wonderful. It is, also, a valuable guide for teachers, showing useful and productive ideas and ways to achieve positive results. This young man is a true...
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I know what you mean, Pauline. I have encouraged the drawing of notes and rests on the staff, with varying results, often the children struggle to make the note heads and the rests small enough, and the accuracy of placing them proves to be difficult. It can be a slow process and takes time to get it right. When the pupil draws the treble clef perfectly, after...
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Kay Blake replied to Diana Eaton
No, I think you were right Diana, it seems a bit cheeky and irresponsible, to me, that this parent thought she could just leave other children with you and disappear! If these other children are genuinely interested and would, maybe, like lessons, then where are their parents? Your time with your pupil shouldn't be disrupted like this, it isn't fair on you or...
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Kay Blake replied to Kathryn Patricia Brown
I agree, Kathryn, we need to look at encouraging the student to step outside his or her comfort zone as and when ready. Listening to, and introducing different pieces, where the musical form and expression could lead to a sense of discovery. This, in turn, broadens the students musical knowledge and willingness to try something different.
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I hope you will be able to make more time for yourself. There are limits to how much you can do, and how much time you can give, to meet your students needs and, as a teacher, this needs to be made clear. You are in charge of your teaching schedule and this should be respected. It's important to look after your own interests and get some rest.
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Kay Blake made a comment
Hi, I'm from Dorset in England. I have not got a degree in anything, although I passed Grade VIII Piano and VI Singing, ABRSM, way back in 1968. I have taught piano, privately, over the years, and entered young pupils for ABRSM piano exams, with good results. I'm hoping to gain more knowledge from the Course, and I thank you for this opportunity.
The world... -
Kay Blake replied to Gabrielle Doublein
I have noticed this strange use of fingering when playing notes close together, it appears awkward and restricts the flow of the piece. It seems that the pupil is unsure of which finger to use even when the note is next to the one just played.
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Kay Blake made a comment
Thinking back, I have learnt that I could do better by being more creative with younger pupils. I could let them create their own music from a story and, also, encourage them to play a piece, or a few bars, in a different way ... for example, an octave higher/lower, or with different expression etc. The surprise, for me, was the Improvisation section based on...
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Kay Blake made a comment
Thank you, there is a good choice here and I'm sure it will be useful and make for interesting reading.
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Kay Blake made a comment
I would agree with this advice wholeheartedly. Determining the mood and behaviour of the pupil, right at the beginning of a lesson, can help the teacher get the lesson started in a happy and productive way. I feel that routine is also important, and it helps the pupil feel secure. I usually start the piano lesson with a few scales, this is like a work-out or...
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Kay Blake made a comment
Helpful advice. I plan lessons and have a pattern in mind, and written down, of what will be covered during each lesson. Also, I make notes in a small notebook, at each lesson, which the pupil keeps and refers to as a guide. This indicates what needs to be practised or thought about between lessons.
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Kay Blake made a comment
Yes, I get a happier, positive response if the lesson has been effective. If a piece, scale or exercise isn't liked or grasped properly, it doesn't get practised much between lessons. However, equally, a piece etc that is pleasing and easily learnt will be played happily and well at the following lesson. It isn't always easy to persuade a pupil to practise or...
