We would like to thank Carol Salas for this tribute to her teacher, Marvin Blickenstaff. As we continue the season of gratitude and giving, we pay tribute to piano teachers from around the country who are transforming the lives of their students. Students, parents, and colleagues are honoring piano teachers from their communities as part of the “Power of a Piano Teacher” campaign. We welcome you to celebrate your own teacher by sharing a tribute with us and donating to The Frances Clark Center.
I have been an adult student at The New School for Music Study for 34 years. Marvin has been my teacher for so long that neither of us remembers how many years. I think at least 20 years! The fact that I have been studying piano beyond my 80th birthday is a testament to Marvin’s wonderful teaching. He is also an amazing person and friend. I now have a large repertoire of music that I love and can play for friends. And I intend to keep playing and learning as long as Marvin is there to help. – Carol Salas
The Marvin Blickenstaff Institute for Teaching Excellence
In 2023, the Frances Clark Center established the Marvin Blickenstaff Institute for Teaching Excellence in honor of his legacy as a pedagogue. This division of The Frances Clark Center encompasses inclusive teaching programs, teacher education, courses, performance, advocacy, publications, research, and resources that support excellence in piano teaching and learning. To learn more about the Institute, please visit this page.
We extend a heartfelt invitation to join us in commemorating Marvin Blickenstaff’s remarkable contributions by making a donation in his honor. Your generous contribution will help us continue his inspiring work and uphold the standards of excellence in piano teaching and learning for generations to come. To make a meaningful contribution, please visit our donation page today. Thank you for being a part of this legacy.
MORE ON THE POWER OF A PIANO TEACHER
- DISCOVERY PAGE: The Power of a Piano Teacher by Heather Smith
- DISCOVERY PAGE: The Joy of Giving by Heather Smith
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Thank you, Jane! by Sara Ernst
- DISCOVERY PAGE: She Really Took a Chance on Me by Asia Passmore
- DISCOVERY PAGE: A Tribute to John Salmon by Heather Hancock
- DISCOVERY PAGE: A Symphony of Gratitude by Ricardo Pozenatto
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Honoring Amy Merkley and Irene Peery-Fox by Hyrum Arnesen
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Reflections on My Piano Teacher | Honoring Fern Davidson by Marvin Blickenstaff
- DISCOVERY PAGE: Every Student Has a Voice the World Needs to Hear | Honoring Carole Ann Kriewaldt by Leah Claiborne