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Summer brings a welcome change of pace for most piano teachers, but those of us teaching neurodivergent students face unique considerations that deserve thoughtful attention. While neurotypical students typically thrive with relaxed summer schedules, our students with disabilities often find comfort in routine and structure - making the summer transition more complex than simply switching to "fun mode."

The podcast explores this delicate balance, acknowledging that the mental preparation for teaching students with special needs remains significant even during summer months. This episode shares creative approaches to summer teaching, including composer studies focusing on movie scores (John Williams is a particular favorite!), activities that build on students' strengths, and techniques for giving students agency through carefully structured choices. We also explore alternative recital formats that accommodate diverse learners, like this year's successful "My Favorite Things" themed event that combined in-person and virtual performances with relaxed outdoor activities.

Have a question about a particular teaching scenario for the new podcast series? Send it to creativepianopedagogy@gmail.com - your query might be featured in an upcoming episode!

Find the full transcript, show notes or links mentioned in the episode here!

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Playing piano is a much more physical activity than most people realize, requiring complex coordination that many of us take for granted. For neurodivergent learners, the physical aspects of piano playing often become unexpected obstacles.
This episode dives deep into adaptive piano technique, exploring how teachers can modify their approaches for students whose bodies and minds process movement differently. The episode outlines six powerful principles for adapting technique for neurodivergent learners. Connect with the Creative Piano Pedagogy Podcast on social media to see upcoming demonstration videos that will visualize these techniques in action!

Find the full transcript, show notes or links mentioned in the episode here!

Subscribe to Elizabeth's email list here so you won’t miss future courses, freebies, teacher events and more.

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Questions or suggestions? Send Elizabeth an email:
creativepianopedagogy@gmail.com

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The journey of teaching piano technique to students with disabilities presents unique challenges that require creativity, patience, and a willingness to adapt. Traditional approaches—filled with flowery language about rainbows and waterfalls—simply don't connect with neurodivergent students who think concretely and pragmatically.

Teaching piano technique to students with disabilities requires adaptability, patience, and a willingness to break from traditional approaches while maintaining pedagogical integrity. Success comes through adapting our approach, not by lowering expectations! Learn more in this first episode on teaching technique.

Find the full transcript, show notes or links mentioned in the episode here!

Subscribe to Elizabeth's email list here so you won’t miss future courses, freebies, teacher events and more.

Subscribe to the Creative Piano Pedagogy Blog:
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Questions or suggestions? Send Elizabeth an email:
creativepianopedagogy@gmail.com