Piano Pedagogy Course Offerings

For a complete list of upcoming courses, please visit the course offerings webpage. These courses may count toward the University of St. Thomas Certificate in Piano Pedagogy, the Master of Arts in Music Education degree with a Piano Pedagogy concentration, or toward certification/ recertification through Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) and Minnesota Music Teachers Association (MMTA).
MTNA National Certification.

Fall 2011

GMUS 772 Intermediate Materials & Teaching Techniques, 3 cr. 
Suzanne Schons, Ph.D.
Sept. 7-Dec. 16, Tuesday and Thursday
10-11:30 a.m., Brady Educational Center 111

An in-depth study of materials and teaching techniques for the intermediate student. Learning theories and their relationship to the various aspects of piano study at the intermediate level are explored.

Spring 2012

GMUS 771 Elementary Materials and Teaching Techniques, 3 cr. 
Vanessa Cornett-Murtada, D.M.A.
Jan. 31-May 10, Tuesday and Thursday
10:00-11:30 a.m., Brady Educational Center 111

Discussion of teaching materials for the beginning student and issues relating to the development of musicianship in early studies on the instrument. Learning theories and their relationship to the various aspects of piano study are explored. The course includes consideration of the business aspects of running an independent studio. Participants will develop some familiarity with the various electronic keyboards available for studio and student use.

Summer 2012

GMUS 544-04 Group Piano Pedagogy, 1 cr.
July 9-13
1-4 p.m., Brady Educational Center LL23

This introductory course is designed to prepare piano teachers and classroom music instructors to teach piano to students in a group setting. It will emphasize repertoire, musicianship skills, and creative activities for beginning and intermediate children and adults. Topics will include logistical issues of setting up a keyboard lab or class piano studio, philosophies and learning theories concerning group teaching, curriculum development and lesson planning, a survey of methods and materials for a variety of learning styles, the use of technology, group management skills, and resources for further learning. Students will enjoy hands-on experience in the University of St. Thomas Music Department keyboard lab.