Power of a Piano Teacher

Piano Teachers Transforming Lives: The Power of a Piano Teacher

Written By Heather Smith, Piano Inspires, Lindsay Bastian, Maria Mueller, Stephanie Pestana-Konnersman, Lydia Sander

At The Frances Clark Center, we are honoring piano teachers who are working every day to make the world more empathetic, inclusive, and connected through the transformational power of music. We welcome you to celebrate your own teacher by sharing a tribute with us and donating to the Frances Clark Center. Students, parents, and colleagues are honoring piano teachers from their communities as part of the “Power of a Piano Teacher” campaign.

Margie Nelson and Maria Mueller at NCKP 2023: The Piano Conference.

The teachers featured here are making profound contributions to students at all stages, from the youngest beginners to college students, and to those who study later in life. These inspirational, personal stories testify to the timeless impact piano teachers have on their students and their communities.

Join us by honoring your teacher today through the “Power of a Piano Teacher” campaign.

Stephanie Pestana-Konnersman honors Marilyn Slenk

I will be forever grateful to my first piano teacher, Marilyn Slenk, for setting me on a lifetime journey through the world of music. Over the course of nine years, her careful, nurturing guidance built a foundation on which the whole of my life arose. She instilled into my soul a deep love and respect for every aspect of art, while encouraging growth of freedom and my own unique artistic sensibility. Without her I would not be the person, pianist, or artist I am today! – Stephanie Pestana-Konnersman

Lydia Sander honors Christopher Fisher

I began lessons with Dr. Fisher during high school. At the time, I had lost interest in pursuing piano lessons further. Dr. Fisher quickly reignited my love for piano and music again like I had not felt before. After learning and growing under his excellent instruction during my pre-college years, I went on to pursue music during my undergraduate studies and I later pursued piano pedagogy in my master’s program. To this day, Dr. Fisher is one of my greatest inspirations as a teacher and mentor. His passion for music and pedagogy along with his commitment to student success is evident in all that he does! I can truly say that I wouldn’t have pursued music and all the wonderful things that have come along with it without his guidance and patience. – Lydia Sander

Christopher Fisher with Lydia Sander.

Maria Mueller honors Margie Nelson

I met Mrs. Margie Nelson when I enrolled in beginning piano lessons at six years old at the New School for Music Study (NSMS). She would become my private teacher for the next twelve years and a mentor and inspiration to me for the rest of my life. She laid the foundation of my musical skills and built on it together with me as I grew and eventually aspired to become a piano teacher myself. More than an imparter of knowledge, Mrs. Nelson was my continual guide and compassionate resource. She encouraged me always and believed in my ability, guided me with thoughtful questions, delighted me with her humor, eased my performance nerves with her down-to-earth advice, challenged me with a wonderful variety of piano repertoire, and celebrated every breakthrough with me. I had the blessing of a growing and deepening teacher-student relationship with Mrs. Nelson for my entire precollege study. Flash forward to today and I now have a Bachelor of Music in Performance and Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy, and I am the primary piano instructor at a nonprofit music conservatory for precollege students. Few teaching days go by where I do not think of my own piano teacher and all the teachers I met at NSMS. If I could affect the life of one of my students the way Mrs. Nelson affected mine, my piano teaching career will have been a success. The last time we saw each other was at The Piano Conference: NCKP 2023—I’m so proud to join her in this transformative piano teaching profession! – Maria Mueller

Margie Nelson and Maria Mueller at NCKP 2023: The Piano Conference.

Lindsay Bastian honors Barbara Furr

Mrs. Furr was my piano teacher during my high school years and she put me on the path to becoming a music teacher myself! Her love for music and for me, her persistence in pushing me to improve, and her endless encouragement helped me to discover my own love for the piano and the ways in which music allows me to connect with others. As a teenager, I don’t think I recognized how effortlessly Mrs. Furr brought out the best in every one of her students, but I still remember how much I loved my lessons and came away from them feeling better about myself, no matter what else was going on in my life. I hope to encourage, inspire, and motivate my future students the way she did for me! – Lindsay Bastian

Barbara Furr with Lindsay Bastian.

We welcome you to celebrate your own teacher by sharing a tribute with us and donating to the Frances Clark Center. Students, parents, and colleagues are honoring piano teachers from their communities as part of the “Power of a Piano Teacher” campaign.

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Celebrate Marvin Blickenstaff’s 89th Birthday With Us!

Written By Piano Inspires

Join us in honoring our esteemed Marvin Blickenstaff. His 89th birthday is May 19th! Marvin has dedicated his life to serving others, and we are asking for your help to show appreciation in a special way this year.

Share Your Birthday Wishes

To celebrate Marvin’s birthday and support his legacy, please consider making a donation to the Marvin Blickenstaff Institute for Teaching Excellence.

Your contribution will support inclusive teaching programs, teacher education, advocacy, and resources that uphold Marvin’s commitment to excellence in piano education. 

Click here to make a donation and leave a birthday message. Your birthday wishes will be sent directly to Marvin!

The Marvin Blickenstaff Institute for Teaching Excellence

The Marvin Blickenstaff Institute for Teaching Excellence is an international division of The Frances Clark Center that encompasses inclusive teaching programs, teacher education, courses, performance, advocacy, publications, research, and resources that support excellence in piano teaching and learning.

Created to amplify the extraordinary life work of world-renowned educator and pianist Mr. Marvin Blickenstaff, the Institute serves to advance teaching practice and elevate the music teaching profession.

Learn more

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A Tribute to Marvin Blickenstaff and his Pedagogical Legacy
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Marvin’s Enduring Legacy

Written By Marianne Williams

We would like to thank Marianne Williams 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 met Marvin Blickenstaff when I was a high school senior attending the Summer Piano Clinic at UNC-Chapel Hill in 1969. At the time, he served as the Director and also held master classes during the clinic. I played Griffes’ Notturno, Op.6, No. 2 for him in one of those classes. I had never felt the tenderness in this piece until he explained and demonstrated it for me. After the class, I wrote to him requesting that I be allowed to study with him at UNC. 

I studied with him from 1970-1974 and I also took his piano pedagogy class. His enthusiasm for all the things that a piano teacher needed to learn and share in order to instill the love of the piano in others was contagious. My piano abilities were forever influenced by my studies with him. Shaping of phrases, improving the tone of a note, technical exercises, and learning to listen to myself were all new and wonderful things to me. He knew my limitations (small hands!) and quickly helped me learn to find repertoire that I would be able to enjoy playing and teaching! Mr. Blickenstaff also made me feel more confident in my ability than I had ever felt before. My piano training from him was complete and covered all eras of piano music. I especially loved learning all the Bach Two-Part Inventions in my freshman year, and still love playing them with all the ornaments that Bach indicated.

After graduating in 1974 as a Bachelor of Music Education with a Major in Piano, I moved around a bit with my husband, but in every place we lived, I set up a piano studio. I have taught continuously since then with a few breaks to have two sons, and I also taught classroom music for thirty years as well.

Marianne Williams with Marvin Blickenstaff.

Thanks to what I learned from Mr. Blickenstaff, and what I am continuing to learn through articles, webinars, and the program at NSMS, I have an intense love of learning new pieces and sharing this love with my students. I still use the same method of teaching all major and minor scales that I learned in college and still have the original printouts with exercises and examples that he gave me. 

I have lost track of the total number of students that I have taught since 1974, but I like to think that they are part of Mr. Blickenstaff’s legacy. He taught me how to interact with my students and inspired me to strive to instill in them the same love of music at the piano that he gave to me. 

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.

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Gratitude for Marvin

Written By Scott Donald

We would like to thank Scott Donald for this tribute to his 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 often tell people that when I grow up, I want to be like Marvin Blickenstaff. My journey with Marvin started in 1999, when we both arrived at the New School for Music Study. During my time there, I had the opportunity to teach, perform, and most importantly, learn from Marvin. His artistry as a teacher and performer is undeniable, but Marvin’s most endearing quality is his humility and the way he challenges us all to be better teachers. 

During my tenure at NSMS, I was presenting a solo recital and after a series of miserable performances, I really had doubts about my playing. Marvin told me a story of a recital that he played years before in which he wrote across the program – Fin. I was touched by his openness about his own doubts and willingness to share. As I thought about that conversation with Marvin and how he managed to overcome some of those doubts and fears, I decided to challenge myself to do the same. His sage advice helped me get past that dark period in my performing life.

Another incredible characteristic about Marvin is his ability and desire to work with students of any level. Marvin is perfectly comfortable working with a young child on “Engine Engine #9” and then spend the next lesson working with an advanced student on Ravel! As a faculty member at NSMS, I was able to observe him working with my students that were in the advanced program. There were so many things that I learned about repertoire, technique, and developing musicianship through those observations. I wouldn’t trade that for anything!  

We no longer teach together but I still hear his voice and his wisdom when I continue to teach my students at my own studio. In fact, as I write this tribute, I have a student working on Grieg’s Notturno. My approach to that piece has Marvin written all over it! I am forever grateful for the friendship and wisdom I gained through our time together. Marvin has made an indelible impression on my life and teaching.

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.

Donate Online

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A Valentine’s Tribute to Transformational Piano Teachers

Written By Heather Smith, Piano Inspires

Share the love this Valentine’s Day by honoring piano teachers who are working every day to make the world more kind, inclusive, and connected through the transformational power of music. We welcome you to celebrate your own teacher by sharing a tribute with us and donating to the Frances Clark Center. Students, parents, and colleagues are honoring piano teachers from their communities as part of the “Power of a Piano Teacher” campaign.

Paula Flynn with her teacher, Eric Unruh.

The teachers featured here are making profound contributions to students at all stages, from the youngest beginners to college students, and to those who study later in life. These inspirational, personal stories testify to the timeless impact piano teachers have on their students and their communities.

Join us by honoring your teacher today through the “Power of a Piano Teacher” campaign.

Barbara Gill honors Vedrana Subotic from Salt Lake City, UT

From studio to stage, Dr. Vedrana Subotic has been such a caring mentor and friend to me for over 20 years. Her artistry, pacing, and tone distinguish her as a fabulous performer, and her kindness and concern for her students extend past graduation. A life lesson she taught me was to follow-through whether it was in a crescendo to an arrival or in life. If I said I would do something, she expected me to do it! Vedrana was the first teacher to make me practice in front of her. She taught me to think of how simple the piano is to play (left, right, or hands together), and yet how many colors can be made on the instrument. I love that Dr. Vedrana Subotic came to Salt Lake City many years ago and I’d like to think it was just for me!

Barbara Gill and Vedrana Subotic.
Jeremy Adriano and Eileen Evans.

Jeremy Adriano honors Eileen Evans from Surprise, AZ

I feel incredibly lucky to have had the wonderful Eileen Evans as my childhood piano teacher. When I think back to my time in her studio, I remember a cherished home. The atmosphere was consistently warm and inviting, creating a sense of coziness that made playing during my piano lessons a truly relaxed experience. Inspired by those fond memories, I’ve crafted my own home piano studio with the same intention—ensuring that my students feel the same comforting warmth, coziness, and relaxation during their lessons.

Paula Flynn honors Eric Unruh from Casper, WY

I had been teaching piano in my home for about 16 years when I decided to go back to college and seek a degree in music education. I was a 37-year-old, non-traditional student at a community college. I had it in my head that I already knew what I needed, I just needed the degree. I declared the piano as my primary instrument and was thankfully placed in Dr. Eric Unruh’s studio. During the first week of class he assigned me Mozart’s Piano Sonata in F Major, K.332. I went home and quickly devoured the first movement, arriving back in his studio the following week ready to “show him a thing or two” about “all that I knew.” He offered me, instead, the opportunity to eat a heaping helping of humble pie. I had all eight pages ready to go, but we didn’t move past page one. Every Mozartean nuance was found on that first page and we grilled and drilled. After my first lesson, I realized how much I still had to learn, that I had an excellent and kind teacher ready to help me grow. His patience with me, his use of metaphors, his references to Jane Austen novels and so much more helped me discover a deeper level of music making. I cherish his continued friendship all of these years later. I still seek his counsel on pieces as I now realize fully that I still have so much to learn. Thank you, Eric! Much love!

Wendy Bachman with Louise Goss
Louise Goss with Wendy Bachman and Her Family

Wendy Bachman honors Louise Goss

From the first moment that I stepped into my teaching audition at The New School for Music Study in 1988, Louise’s big smile made me feel at ease. Her positive tone of voice and willingness to help was a constant. When working with the students and modeling how to teach concepts, she always conveyed the utmost in enthusiasm. My favorite way of teaching triplets with the full-body arm swing is from Louise. Every time I teach it, I always tell my students, “This is how Louise taught us” as we enthusiastically say “1 a la, 2 a la.” As a graduate student in the Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy and Performance program, I was preparing to get married the same day as I graduated! I was busy with my studies and had not given a lot of thought to the wedding plans. Louise kindly stepped in and asked if she could help me plan my wedding! We drove out to have lunch at the place she thought would be perfect for the reception. I was more than thrilled that Louise Goss and Frances Clark could be guests at my wedding. The years after graduation we kept in touch with cards and gifts as our family started. Louise’s words of encouragement still mean so much as I read those cards today. I am grateful beyond words. 

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Vision, Dedication, and Multiplication: Honoring Janet Tschida

Written By Makayla Stevenson

We would like to thank Makayla Stevenson for this tribute to her teacher, Janet Tschida. 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.

Makayla Stevenson with her teacher, Janet Tschida.

“Students don’t learn because of what teachers say. Students learn because of what teachers have them DO!” Three years after completing my undergraduate degree, Janet Tschida’s words replay in my mind, reminding me of the influence that we as piano teachers can have in the lives of our students.

Residents of Watertown, Wisconsin know Janet Tschida as associate professor at Maranatha Baptist University and director of Maranatha Music Prep School, the community’s music education program. Maranatha Music Prep School is uniquely structured to allow pedagogy interns from the university to teach local students, providing undergraduate students with valuable teaching experience and fostering connections in the community.

As a piano pedagogy graduate of MBU and an intern at the prep school, I had the privilege of gleaning from Miss Tschida’s wisdom, knowledge, and experience almost daily for four years. As I reflect on what she has imparted to me and countless others, three words come to mind: vision, dedication, and multiplication.

Janet Tschida taught us to see beyond the four walls of the music studio. She, like Frances Clark, taught us that as teachers, we teach the student first, music second, and piano third. Miss Tschida may teach in a small town in the Midwest, but her vision is global and generational. She has the unique ability to be in the moment and see beyond it, to teach Baroque performance practice while understanding that she is influencing the destinies of generations to come. At the end of my freshman year, I met with her to discuss dropping my pedagogy concentration, as I was not particularly interested in teaching music. She kindly but firmly informed me that I had great potential as a teacher and that this was not a decision to be made hastily. As a result of her input, I reconsidered my decision and am grateful that I did. As a visionary, she could see what I could not, and she taught me that day to always see the potential in my students just as she had seen it in me.

If there is one word that consistently describes Janet Tschida in the minds of those who know her, it is dedicated. She has high standards of excellence for herself, and she encourages her students to strive for the same. One of her educational pursuits is to research topics from other disciplines, often entirely unrelated to music, and apply those insights to music education. She would encourage us to do the same: to always be learning something new, to glean from other fields, and to continually evaluate our own progress in every area of life. As students, we saw Miss Tschida exemplify this dedication to excellence. She would teach long days, pour into her piano students and interns, complete never-ending administrative tasks, and gladly repeat the process the next day. Perhaps it was her vision, her dedication, or both—but somehow she seemed to accomplish more in a year than most people do in a lifetime.

Or perhaps it was that she knew the power of multiplication. Janet Tschida knew that when she taught her classic “Prepare, Present, Practice” lesson to the freshman piano pedagogy class, she was actually changing the lives of twenty-second and twenty-third century musicians. She knew that every time she met with student interns to discuss their weekly teaching videos, she was training the next generation of educators, performers, researchers, and innovators. She knew the power of multiplication—that what she taught would change lives in the generations to come.

Janet Tschida taught me the influence that one teacher can have. She encouraged me to have a vision greater than the present reality and to dedicate myself to the pursuit of excellence. In so doing, she taught me that a piano teacher can truly make a difference, one student at a time.

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Carla Salas-Ruiz holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Costa Rica and a Master’s and PhD from Louisiana State University. She is a piano instructor at Brazosport College, dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment. Her research focuses on motivation, interest development, and effective practice strategies in piano education. Carla has presented her research at national and international conferences and contributed to research journals.

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The Gift that Keeps Giving: Honoring Marvin Blickenstaff

Written By Arlene Steffen

We would like to thank Arlene Steffen 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.

Sometimes you get a gift and you don’t really realize its value initially. When I studied with Marvin Blickenstaff at Goshen College, I didn’t realize the many gifts I was being given—gifts that have appreciated over time—gifts of training, mentorship, collegiality, and, most of all, love and friendship.

Marvin invests not only in his students’ musical growth and development, but in the person, the relationship.

As a freshman listening to students in the practice rooms, I knew I didn’t measure up, but when I had my first lessons, I knew there was a chance I could get better. The first week of the semester, Marvin asked me to come in for three lessons. He was investing in my future as a musician, but he also began building my self confidence. Each lesson he met me where I was and gave me the encouragement and affirmation to move forward. His door was always open to help me practice or to give advice. 

Marvin Blickenstaff with Arlene Steffen.

Marvin never misses an opportunity to tell you how much he values you. He always wants to know what’s going on in your life both professionally and personally. He’ll hit you up for a recipe, tell you about his latest family gathering or trip, praise your recent accomplishments and take you to dinner. He’ll ask your recommendations for music to play at church, admire your latest studio project, and offer prayers on your behalf.

Every time I step into my studio, I do my best to channel his gracious spirit, his insightful mind, his ability to ask just the right question, and most of all, his pursuit of beauty through music. 

While the public sees a gregarious man full of enthusiasm, knowledge, and skill, what really is on display is love, a direct result of his deep faith in God, handed down to him from his loving parents and molded through a lifetime of hard work, difficulties, disappointments, and joy. He gives tirelessly, knowing that serving others is the best way of showing love.

Marvin taught me to be not only a better musician, but a better person. 

Marvin is the gift that keeps on giving. His legacy lives in every student he has taught, and through those of us who teach, it flows into the lives of our students.

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.

Donate Online

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A Tribute to Marvin Blickenstaff and his Pedagogical Legacy

Written By Sara Ernst, Jane Magrath, Karen Zorn, Joel M. Harrison, Marianne Williams, Zack Kleiman, Henry Banta, Anya Smith, Nina Austria

We would like to thank Sara Ernst, Jane Magrath, Karen Zorn, Joel M. Harrison, Marianne Williams, Zack Kleiman, Henry Banta, Anya Smith, and Nina Austria for collaborating on this tribute to Marvin Blickenstaff. Interested in learning more about Marvin Blickenstaff and his teaching? Marvin’s latest book, Inspired Piano Teaching, is coming soon and is available to preorder now. If you want to learn more about Marvin’s book, you can read more here.

A Tribute to Marvin Blickenstaff and His Pedagogical Legacy

Marvin Blickenstaff has been a pillar of the North American piano community for more than five decades. His dedication to outstanding teaching, learning, and performing has been honed through his work with innumerable students and their teachers. Anyone who has witnessed Marvin working with young pianists understands why his work is so powerful. He demands excellence from his students and colleagues, is persistent but kind, and is always eager to continue his own musical learning. His dedication to our profession is as evident today as it was in the 1970s, at the outset of his teaching career.

Students clamor to study with Marvin Blickenstaff and teachers flock to his numerous workshops, seminars, and conference sessions. Marvin was among the first associate editors of Keyboard Companion, one of the precursors to the Piano Magazine, and he has taught at the New School for Music Study in Kingston, New Jersey for over twenty years. The Frances Clark Center (FCC) is honored to present this tribute to Marvin Blickenstaff to  commemorate his continued contributions to the piano teaching and learning community. After presenting highlights of Marvin’s career, we share tributes from former and current students. We hope that this tribute inspires you to refine your piano performance and teaching craft, and to continue your own learning journey as you read the additional articles about teaching, learning, and performing within this magazine.

Professional Pianist

By Sara Ernst

Marvin Blickenstaff is beloved by piano students of all ages and teachers across the world: it may be how he cherishes his time spent with every student, his deep expertise in music and artistry, or the sage pedagogical advice that he freely offers. As the late Louise Goss (d. 2014) stated:

He has a solid-as-gold national, international really, reputation…[an] incredible amount of knowledge, incredible desire to spread that knowledge…and he just loves it so much that it just spills out of him in bursts of joy…What you would hope a great master teacher would be, he’s the model, and they broke the mold!1

– Louise Goss

One of the unique qualities of his teaching is his uncanny ability to work with a wide array of pianists. Nelita True aptly articulated:

I don’t know of anyone else in our profession who can handle all levels…advanced teaching, he does intermediate, he does beginners…[and he] teaches through a kind of empathy with the student that I find extremely effective and very desirable.2 

– Nelita True

We hope you have enjoyed this excerpt from “A Tribute to Marvin Blickenstaff and His Pedagogical Legacy.” You can read more by clicking here.

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.

Donate Online

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sources

1 Louise Goss, interview with author (Kingston, NJ, November 18, 2009).

2 Nelita True, interview with author (Telephone Interview, April 9, 2010). 

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Marvin Blickenstaff: Cheerleader Extraordinaire

Written By Sara Ernst

We would like to thank Sara Ernst for this tribute to her mentor, Marvin Blickenstaff. On January 30, 2024 we are hosting a virtual Publications Party to celebrate Marvin Blickenstaff’s new book, Inspired Piano Teaching. Click here to register for this free event! If you are interested in learning more about Marvin’s book, you can read more here.

Marvin Blickenstaff, Sara Ernst and family, celebrating the end of her time at the New School for Music Study, 2013.

Marvin Blickenstaff is amazing in so many ways, as pianist, pedagogue, mentor, colleague and friend. I have had the pleasure of knowing him in all of these capacities, and my life has truly been transformed because of this. Among the many attributes Marvin possesses, I wish to celebrate in this tribute is his role as cheerleader extraordinaire. Whether for his students, colleagues, or friends, Marvin will be the first to congratulate the successes of those around him. I have heard his boisterous cheering and applause from the audience, I have heard his heartfelt speeches congratulating others in our profession, and I have received his personal emails commending my professional accomplishments. His genuine love and support of those around him is unparalleled and contributes immensely to our community. Being a musician, pianist, and educator can be difficult (while being tremendously rewarding), and we all need those in our professional lives who reflect to us our own impact and worth. He has provided a tremendous model to me of what that means and how important this is—this is one of the most significant ways we ensure the future of our profession. I encourage us all to follow his example, to project this enthusiasm for piano and teaching into the world, to support our students and colleagues, and to delight in the successes of all those around us.

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.

Donate Online

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Marvin Blickenstaff: Cheerleader Extraordinaire

Written By Sara Ernst

We would like to thank Sara Ernst for this tribute to her mentor, Marvin Blickenstaff. Since 1999, Marvin Blickenstaff has been a beloved faculty member of the New School for Music Study in Kingston, NJ. In honor of the 25th year of his work for NSMS, we recognize the tremendous impact he has had on so many in our profession. Are you interested in teaching at the New School for Music Study? Learn more and apply to our Postgraduate Teaching Program by clicking here.

Marvin Blickenstaff, Sara Ernst and family, celebrating the end of her time at the New School for Music Study, 2013.

Marvin Blickenstaff is amazing in so many ways, as pianist, pedagogue, mentor, colleague and friend. I have had the pleasure of knowing him in all of these capacities, and my life has truly been transformed because of this. Among the many attributes Marvin possesses, I wish to celebrate in this tribute is his role as cheerleader extraordinaire. Whether for his students, colleagues, or friends, Marvin will be the first to congratulate the successes of those around him. I have heard his boisterous cheering and applause from the audience, I have heard his heartfelt speeches congratulating others in our profession, and I have received his personal emails commending my professional accomplishments. His genuine love and support of those around him is unparalleled and contributes immensely to our community. Being a musician, pianist, and educator can be difficult (while being tremendously rewarding), and we all need those in our professional lives who reflect to us our own impact and worth. He has provided a tremendous model to me of what that means and how important this is—this is one of the most significant ways we ensure the future of our profession. I encourage us all to follow his example, to project this enthusiasm for piano and teaching into the world, to support our students and colleagues, and to delight in the successes of all those around us.

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.

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Meet People Where They Are | Honoring Marvin Blickenstaff

Written By Karen Zorn

We would like to thank Karen Zorn for this tribute to her teacher, Marvin Blickenstaff. On January 30, 2024 we are hosting a virtual Publications Party to celebrate Marvin Blickenstaff’s new book, Inspired Piano Teaching. Click here to register for this free event! If you are interested in learning more about Marvin’s book, you can read more here.

Karen Zorn and Marvin Blickenstaff

It’s such an honor to write about my teacher and friend, Marvin Blickenstaff. I could tell a million stories about Marvin’s brilliance as a teacher and how much better a musician and teacher I am because of his teaching. But I suspect that many of you already know that side of Marvin and have stories of your own. So, I’d like to share a few stories that reveal what an amazing human being Marvin is and how my life is immeasurably better for knowing him.

It seems to me that this is how Marvin lives his life. Meet people where they are. I felt this acceptance from him right from our beginning days together as teacher and student.

There’s a phrase that is probably overused these days, but I like it—meet people where they are. It says so much and I think it is so needed in Music Education. With this one simple phrase—meet people where they are—we can leave behind our limiting thoughts about students: “not well-prepared enough,” “not talented enough,” “not good enough.”

I talk about this quite often in my current work, and I believe I learned this philosophy from Marvin. It seems to me that this is how Marvin lives his life. Meet people where they are. I felt this acceptance from him right from our beginning days together as teacher and student.

Marvin was never the distant teacher. Rather, he was in touch all the time. He had the most uncanny ability to sense when you needed help. Marvin used to knock on my practice room door, sometimes just to say hello and see how I was doing. Other times he’d say something like “Uh…just curious if you EVER practice slowly.”

The truth is, back in the day, I almost never practiced slowly, and Marvin knew it. I wasn’t alone. We all practiced fast. A lot. Except when we sensed that Marvin was nearby. And we were ALWAYS aware when Marvin was around. We felt it. Marvin’s aura would drift down the practice room hallway, much like when you spot a state trooper up ahead on the highway. One by one we slowed down to “tempo di studio.” Marvin’s presence was like a human radar gun. Metronomes came out of the closet and fingerings suddenly got sorted.

We all thought Marvin was amazing. The cool professor—you know, “with it.” Except in one way—his typewriter. A Royal Manual Deluxe with an industrial metal case and pica type—the kind that you had to hit with a hammer to get the keys to go down. The kind where if you missed a keystroke, your finger would get trapped in a subterranean encampment of thrashing metal. And while we kind of poked fun of Marvin’s typewriter, we secretly loved it. Before and after lessons Marvin could be heard, pecking away, writing letters—thank you notes to presenters who had hosted him, words of welcome to prospective students, congratulations to colleagues for their accomplishments. If any of you knew Marvin back then, you probably received a note written on the old Royal Manual.

Marvin Blickenstaff

Of course, he also used it to write to his students. He actually wrote us letters on a regular basis. They were usually words of encouragement: where he’d noticed big improvements in our playing, words of “well done” after a performance, or things he’d been thinking about as possible next steps for us. It meant so much to all of us to see the envelope in our mailbox with the initials “MB” scrawled in the upper left. It was such a gift.

So, here’s the thing: Marvin is never just someone’s piano teacher. It is never just about piano lessons. With Marvin, you get it all—the entire suite of attention, care, and love. He’s the Deluxe Edition piano teacher. When you study with him you get “the works.” He’s the all-inclusive, elite-level cruise, room with a view. The automatic upgrade. The executive platinum status. The super-size me, combo-platter piano teacher.

Marvin, I hope you know how grateful we all are to have you in our lives. We are immeasurably better for knowing you. 

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.

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A Genuine Place of Love and Kindness: Honoring Marvin Blickenstaff

Written By Rebekah Hood

We would like to thank Rebekah Hood 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.

Rebekah and Mary Hood visiting with Marvin at Daynes Music in Salt Lake City, Utah during the Marvin Blickenstaff Tour on October 16, 2023.

I met Mr. Blickenstaff when I was in the 4th grade. After the death of my first piano teacher and an unhappy experience with a second teacher, I was reluctant to continue my studies. Admittedly, I grew fond of the idea of never having to attend a piano lesson on Monday afternoon ever again—that is, until I met Mr. Blickenstaff.

On the day of my first lesson, I felt anxious and jittery. My mom drove me to his home, just five minutes away from our neighborhood, and I approached his front door with dread. But the moment we walked into his home, I met a man who was lively, kind, passionate, and gentle. When I played the piano for him, he offered the sincerest praise and encouragement. He made up words to fit the melodies of my pieces. He sang beautifully, his strong vibrato filling the room, while I barely moved my lips and shyly mouthed the words to the fabricated lyrics. I felt more at ease and more willing to try out lessons for a few months.

A few months became nine years. Through that period, I broke two fingers, suffered various illnesses, experimented with many unfortunate fashions, vowed to quit piano upon receiving my first Rachmaninoff piece, cried in the middle of a studio recital, bickered with my parents about piano practice, and eventually prepared an hour-long senior recital. Mr. Blickenstaff witnessed my growth throughout that entire journey. He continued to make up song lyrics for my pieces. He taught me how to waltz after introducing Chopin’s Waltz in A Minor. He changed up the articulation for the “Allemande” from Bach’s French Suite in G Major every single week. He encouraged me when I felt embarrassed even to step through his door due to my lack of consistent piano practice.

About a month after my senior recital, Mr. Blickenstaff and I sat by his piano and we reminisced about favorite pieces, fond memories, and past performances. He said, “Bekki, you came to me when you were terribly shy and unsure of yourself. Now, it’s like you’ve blossomed into a butterfly.” When I got home from my lesson, I immediately recorded his words in my journal. It meant a lot to me, and I often think about what he said, especially when I find myself bogged down by discouragement, maladaptive perfectionism, and frustration. Mr. Blickenstaff’s influence on my life has been immeasurable. Not only did my appreciation for music flourish under his direction, but my confidence increased. He showcases the change and growth that can come from teaching music—not from a place of fear or shame, but from a place of genuine love and kindness.

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.

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Four Powerful Lessons in Piano Pedagogy: Honoring Carmen Cambronero, Katia Guevara, Gregory Sioles, and Willis Delony

Written By Carla Salas-Ruiz

We would like to thank Carla Salas-Ruiz for this tribute to her teachers, Carmen Cambronero, Katia Guevara, Gregory Sioles, and Willis Delony. 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.

Carla Salas-Ruiz chatting with Professor Sioles at the end of her Master’s graduation commencement.

Lessons Beyond the Keys with Mrs. Carmen

When I was six years old, I had a little red piano as a toy, and I’d spend hours playing it.

Though I couldn’t articulate what I was doing, playing with this “toy” was wonderful. I distinctly recall urging my mom to sign me up for piano lessons, driven by my desire to explore this captivating instrument. One day, my mom said, “Ok, let’s put you in piano lessons.” What a joy! It marked one of the happiest moments of my life. A couple of weeks later, my mom took me to my very first lesson, introducing me to Mrs. Carmen. Mrs. Carmen graciously welcomed me into her studio, and over the years, she nurtured my love for music. With her remarkable expertise and ability to simplify complex concepts, she guided me through harmonization, improvisation, transpositions, memorization, and various other musical principles. To this day, I attribute the solid foundation Mrs. Carmen provided me as my secret weapon in the challenging music theory classes of grad school. 

In my fourth year with Mrs. Carmen, she communicated to my mom that “it was time for me to move forward.” My mom explained to me that Mrs. Carmen suggested I consider continuing piano lessons in a different program. Although my heart was set on continuing study exclusively with Mrs. Carmen, I placed my trust in her judgment and auditioned for this new program. The last day I spent with Mrs. Carmen was bittersweet. However, she said that it was time for me to transition to another school that could offer what I needed. What a transformative lesson it turned out to be! Mrs. Carmen not only taught me the musical ABCs but also imparted a profound introduction to piano pedagogy.

New Beginnings with Professor Guevara

With Professor Guevara, I encountered my first Chopin, my first Bach, and the works of many other composers. She helped me to reach the “next level” and did so with abundant care, empathy, love, and respect. Our weekly lessons became the highlight of my week. Professor Guevara approached each session with meticulous attention to both technical and musical details, instilling in me the understanding that in music, there is always more to learn, and multiple approaches exist for exploring a piece; there is never a single correct answer. 

As I approached the end of my high school years, the decision loomed about whether to pursue music in college. While I was certain that music was an integral part of my life, I had doubts that  I possessed the skills necessary for college success. I confided in Professor Guevara, expressing my uncertainty. In response, she posed a series of questions that resonated with me. “Carla, can you envision yourself doing something other than being a musician?” I replied, “No.” She continued, “Can you picture a day without talking, playing, and thinking about music?” Again, my answer was “No.” With that, she stated, “There you have your answer.” What a powerful lesson! Professor Guevara consistently guided me to address my questions, leading me to discover my own answers. Her teaching approach helped me find my voice, as she encouraged me to explore and identify what I wanted and needed for both myself and my music.

Maria, Carla, and Professor Guevara celebrating at the conclusion of Carla’s pre-college program recital.

Pursuing Education Overseas 

Choosing to leave Costa Rica and fully immerse myself in the world of piano pedagogy led me to Louisiana State University, where I had the privilege of studying under Professor Sioles. Over the span of two years, he not only transformed my understanding of music but also encouraged me to embrace new ideas. Throughout this period, I faced challenging circumstances, including the loss of my grandfather, a dear aunt, and navigating my father’s cancer treatment. Professor Sioles consistently offered unwavering support. With his mastery, he provided advice through the language of music, clarifying concepts that had eluded me for a long time while simultaneously calming my mind. All of this through music! His constant presence reassured me that my music was always there for me.

Professor Sioles and Carla during a summer camp at the University of Costa Rica.

I will never forget the minutes before my final master’s recital, feeling very nervous backstage. While I was in the green room, Professor Sioles came to me and asked how I was feeling. I confessed, “Professor Sioles, I am very nervous; do you think I’ll be able to make it happen?” He responded, “Carla, you ALREADY made it happen! Today, you’re sharing your story with us—share your voice; we want to hear you!” I will never forget this moment. What a powerful lesson! I carry this answer with me every day, sharing it with my students and reminding myself every time I’m about to walk on stage.

Adapting to Change and Concluding Processes

I began lessons with Professor Delony in Spring 2020—do you recall that semester? We navigated the challenges of the pandemic together, progressing from fully masked lessons to nearly mask-free sessions, and eventually rejoicing in the return to in-person studio parties. He adjusted to all this with such mastery and compassion. 

From the very first day, Professor Delony treated my playing with profound respect, consistently encouraging me to “consider multiple perspectives” regarding pedaling, phrasing, articulations, and more. While he discerned my needs from the outset, he patiently guided me through the process. Professor Delony always challenged me to give more while understanding the demanding hours I had to dedicate to writing and research daily. I left his studio feeling capable of anything. Beyond being a mentor for musical matters, he served as a sounding board for decisions both in music and life.

Left: Carla after her last lesson with Professor Delony. Right: Carla and Professor Delony pictured after she received the “2021 LSU Teaching Assistant of the Year” award.

I distinctly recall a conversation about taking risks. He said, “Carla, there are opportunities you need to seize because if you don’t, you will never know what you could have achieved or experienced. Sometimes, the most rewarding outcomes come from stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the uncertainties that accompany taking risks.” Professor Delony not only attended my recitals but also made a point to be present at my research defense. Acknowledging my varied interests, he offered steadfast support, guiding me through every aspect of my academic journey.

Thank you, Mrs. Carmen, Professor Guevara, Professor Sioles, and Professor Delony, for four powerful lessons in piano pedagogy and beyond.

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Carla Salas-Ruiz holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Costa Rica and a Master’s and PhD from Louisiana State University. She is a piano instructor at Brazosport College, dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment. Her research focuses on motivation, interest development, and effective practice strategies in piano education. Carla has presented her research at national and international conferences and contributed to research journals.

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Every Student Has a Voice the World Needs to Hear | Honoring Carole Ann Kriewaldt

Written By Leah Claiborne

We would like to thank Leah Claiborne for this tribute to her teacher, Carole Ann Kriewaldt. This week, we also celebrate Leah, founder of Ebony Music, INC., who received a $150,000 grant from the Sphinx Venture Fund to develop The Ebony Music Project! 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.

Leah Claiborne on the far right, directly next to her teacher, Carole Ann Kriewaldt (red shirt).

In the summer of 1995, I had no idea the path my life would take once Carole Ann Kriewaldt entered my life.

It’s amazing the small details you remember in pivotal moments of your life. My mom informed me that we would be meeting with a woman to see if she might accept me as  a piano student. My mom made it very clear that this was not a lesson—it was a trial, an interview, nothing had been decided yet. Five-year-old me heard this and thought, “challenge accepted!” I wanted to do whatever it would take to be able to start piano lessons.

Before going to Broken Reed Court, my soon-to-be second home, I asked my mom if I could wear my favorite summer dress. It was a white linen dress that had big strawberries all over it. I thought it was the prettiest dress ever made, and I only wore it for special occasions. My mom obliged, so I quickly changed and got in the car.

When my parents knocked on the door to this brown townhouse, the door opened and this towering woman stood there. She invited us in; the house smelled like French-vanilla candles. My parents sat down and I remember knowing I should have sat down right next to them—but I didn’t. I went straight for the piano bench. It’s amazing to think how small I must have been because I struggled to get on top of the bench—but I was determined. When my parents saw this struggle, my dad called my name. Before I could get off the bench to go sit next to him, I was lifted up by this woman. She took me into her arms, looked straight at me and said, “Well, aren’t you the prettiest strawberry shortcake I have ever seen!” (She was on my side.)

Leah Claiborne and Carole Ann Kriewaldt

She positioned me on the bench and sat down right next to me. She said that she was going to show me where middle C was on the piano. Before she could stretch out her hand to do so, I put my thumb on middle C. And then with some makeshift fingering I said, “CDEFGABC, and then it keeps repeating.” She said, “OH!!!! We have a smart one here, don’t we, Strawberry Shortcake?”

I laughed so hard and questioned momentarily if she knew my name wasn’t Strawberry Shortcake. It was a laugh that I would continue to experience only with her. I looked at my parents and they approved with laughter. At that moment, I didn’t realize that those three people were always, always going to be on my side. They were there making sure I worked to my best ability, moving mountains on my behalf until I realized that I could move them on my own.

It’s hard to capture a twenty-five-year relationship. The moments I think about most have nothing to do with music, but it all started there.

She taught me that every student’s voice is unique and there is something incredibly special about them that the world needs to hear.

Mrs. Carole was home. She had an open-door policy (literally), and she was a person I knew would always be awake in the middle of the night for a phone call (she never slept)! Our relationship became one that held every dream, secret, desire, problem, fear, or ambition of mine. She knew it all. Before any recital, performance, or competition she would say, “Go knock em’ dead, kid” in her big southern, Texas accent. She nurtured what it meant to be “Leah” and made me believe that the world needed to hear from me. 

I vividly remember one holiday when we went shopping for red boots for her granddaughter. We went all over town looking for these boots and I was just so happy to be spending the day with her. In one store a sales associate asked her, “Now, who is this little one in relation to you?” Mrs. Carole said, “That’s my grand baby!” The sales associate was shocked by her response, and it never occurred to me why. But now, I imagine that in our little town, a German woman born in Texas, saying a little Black girl was her granddaughter might have been shocking to some. I reflect on this a lot because it is a constant reminder to me how music has a profound way of building deep relationships, and how music cuts through social barriers with shared culture and life experiences.

The greatest lesson I learned from Mrs. Carole is the lesson I try to give to each of my students every week. She taught me that every student’s voice is unique and there is something incredibly special about them that the world needs to hear. We have the privilege as educators to tap into that voice, through music, and prepare them to step out on any “stage” with the confidence of knowing that the world needs to hear from them.

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Leah Claiborne, D.M.A. promotes diversity in the arts by championing piano music by Black composers in her performances, research, and teaching. She serves as Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Frances Clark Center/National Conference of Keyboard Pedagogy.

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A Tribute to John Salmon

Written By Heather Hancock

We would like to thank Heather Hancock for this tribute to her teacher, John Salmon. 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.

Heather Hancock at the piano.

Writing about someone whose significance continues to expand in the world and, in my own life, is a daunting task. Words seem too small! I can only hope that somehow, my black and white text might serve as a constellation guide, sharing some of my own admiration, wonder, and gratitude for someone who has been and continues to be such a luminous presence. 

I first met Dr. John Salmon in 1991 at my audition at UNC-Greensboro. Auditions were being held in a small faculty studio, where no one was more than three feet away from anyone else, creating a heightened sense of exposure. As always, after playing, I felt incredibly vulnerable and had an acute desire to dissolve into the air along with the last note. I sat anticipating the familiar, awkward silence where, typically, there is no acknowledgement of what has just transpired, only the sound of judges, jurors, or faculty scribbling down their critique. But the silence never came. Instead, John eagerly piped up, saying, “What beautiful, heartfelt playing! What are your SAT scores?” I was so taken aback by his uninhibited enthusiasm that tears sprang to my eyes, and it took me a moment to respond. This was the last of my college auditions, and UNC-Greensboro was the only university on my audition roster.  Every other school was a conservatory of music and honestly, UNCG had been my last preference. After my audition, John found me sitting on a bench in the School of Music and came right over and THANKED ME!! 

Weeks later, as I was trying to make my final decision about where I would attend, I kept coming back to John’s incredibly generous, kind, and encouraging response to my audition. I didn’t have the language for it then. I just felt drawn to his sincerity and willingness to engage, so unconstrained by the power dynamics and nit-picking critiques that seemed a sad but predictable norm of classical piano culture. John’s warmth, immediate encouragement, and passion for music were unique. I had the privilege of studying with him for four years at UNCG, where I got to behold his rare, multi-layered brilliance and captivating personality in action. I watched him as he tirelessly birthed Focus on Piano Literature, an annual symposium featuring world class performing artists and pedagogues from around the globe. I heard several phone conversations between he and Dave Brubeck, saw letters he exchanged with Kapustin, and routinely attended his dazzling performances, which often showcased his duo virtuosities as both a jazz and classical pianist. 

John Salmon.

My lessons were always a rich synthesis of ideas and inspirations; we talked about politics, religion, philosophy, ethics, recordings, performances, art exhibits, languages, and so much more. John was eager to engage in whatever was engaging to me. He understood that, for some of us, there is no separating artistry and pianism from the rest of life, that music and its making are not confined to a field of study. Music, like air, is an essential element of being human and therefore relevant to everything. Before social justice initiatives and strides toward equity, diversity, and inclusion were topics of inquiry in academia, I watched John break racist barriers, advocating for and collaborating with musicians of every color, spanning the gamut of musical genres. He understood the conditions of his own privilege and was using his music as a resource for making things better. To me, this exemplifies a true artist; someone who views their craft as a continuous invitation to serve and better the world.

John and I have remained close friends for the last three decades and my respect and admiration have continued to grow. As a college student, I was aware of John’s brilliance and cherished his expertise, kindness, and generous guidance. Now, having a broadened perspective of the world, I appreciate how rare John’s profound artistic and personal integrity are, and how these have imprinted on every aspect of my life. This is the power of a piano teacher, and now it is my turn to eagerly pipe up and say, “What beautiful, heartfelt teaching. THANK YOU!!!”

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As a Performing Artist, Pedagogue and Activist, Heather Hancock is passionate about the intersection of artistry and social justice. Currently, Heather is a DMA candidate (Piano Performance) at The University of Georgia where she is a Teaching Assistant. Her research explores solo piano works that directly engage social justice issues. As a collaborative pianist, Heather delights in exploring works by under represented composers as well as newly discovered and contemporary composers.

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