Jody Kerchner, Inspiring Student Voice and Creative Music-Making | S3 E11

Join host Andrea McAlister as she interviews educator Jody Kerchner on the latest episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast. Kerchner shares stories from her early years as a music student and offers insights into her current work as an educator, including her role as founder and conductor of Oberlin at Grafton—a prison choir at Grafton Correctional Facility. Listen now to hear Kerchner’s inspiring thoughts on artistic citizenship and the importance of community in music-making.

John Ellis, Creating Space for Students to Discover Their Passions | S3 E10

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, John Ellis joins host Leah Claiborne to discuss his journey from childhood piano lessons to a dynamic career as a musician and educator. Ellis shares how his passion for music evolved into a lifelong commitment to teaching and mentoring the next generation of artists. Tune in to learn more about Ellis’s inspiring achievements!

Gayle Kowalchyk, A Journey of Teaching, Creativity, and Collaboration | S3 E9 

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Gayle Kowalchyk joins host, Yeeseon Kwon, to discuss her multi-faceted career in music. Kowalchyk reflects on her educational path, her extensive experience as an independent studio teacher, and her work in publications. Join us for an engaging and inspiring conversation with Gayle Kowalchyk and Yeeseon Kwon!

Craig Sale, Shaping Piano Education Through Legacy and Community | S3 E8 

In the latest episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Craig Sale discusses his early experiences with music study, his work with legendary educators Frances Clark, Louise Goss, and Elvina Pearce, and his current work as senior editor of Piano Magazine. Listen now to hear this insightful and inspiring conversation with host Pam Pike.

Brian Chung, Bridging Music, Business, and Education | S3 E7 

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Brian Chung joins host, Heather Smith, to reflect on his past teachers, multi-faceted career path, and hopes for the music field. Chung discusses how he has combined his love of music and business throughout his career. Tune in to learn more about Chung’s inspiring achievements!

Gary Ingle, Advancing the Music Profession through Vision and Leadership | S3 E6 

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Gary Ingle joins host, Jennifer Snow, to discuss his numerous contributions to the music field. Ingle shares his unique educational journey, inspiring career with MTNA, and reflects on a life in music. Join us for an inspiring conversation with a man who has dedicated his life to furthering the music profession.

Pamela Pike, Inspiring a Lifetime of Learning through Piano Education| S3 E5 

In this podcast episode, musician and educator Pam Pike shares experiences from her youth and beyond that inspired her to become a piano teacher. In this impactful conversation with host Craig Sale, Pike reflects on her career paths and the role of piano teachers in today’s world. Tune into the Piano Inspires Podcast to hear more!

Michelle Cann, Elevating Voices through Artistry and Education | S3 E4 

Join host Leah Claiborne as she interviews pianist Michelle Cann, who serves as the Eleanor Sokoloff Chair in Piano Studies at the Curtis Institute of Music. Cann reflects on her wide-ranging career, beginning with her musical family, continuing on with her studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music and the Curtis Institute, and concluding with her latest recording projects. Listen here to learn more about Cann’s inspiring achievements!

Alvin Chow and Angela Cheng, Reflecting on Philosophies of Teaching | S3 E3 

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Alvin Chow and Angela Cheng join host, Andrea McAlister, to discuss their musical journeys. Chow and Cheng share memories of their inspirational teacher, Menahem Pressler, and reflect on their philosophies about teaching. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation with Alvin Chow and Angela Cheng!

E.L. Lancaster, A Lifetime of Teaching, Publishing, and Inspiring Through Piano | S3 E2 

In this episode, host Yeeseon Kwon is joined by Dr. E.L. Lancaster, who reflects on a remarkable career that has shaped piano pedagogy worldwide. From his early lessons in rural Tennessee to leading innovations in group piano teaching, curriculum development, and publishing, Lancaster shares stories of mentorship, collaboration, and the pursuit of making music accessible for all. With warmth and wisdom, he discusses the importance of nurturing students’ strengths, building communities of teachers, and creating opportunities that inspire generations of musicians.

Randy Faber, Igniting the Artist Within | S3 E1 

Pianist, educator, and Piano Adventures co-creator Dr. Randy Faber joins Jennifer Snow to discuss sparking intrinsic motivation, nurturing creativity, and helping students discover the artist within. An inspiring conversation on how piano teaching can transform lives and communities.

Samantha Coates, Rethinking Piano Education with Creativity and Humor | S2 E24

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, Craig Sale is joined by Samantha Coates who shares her journey from traditional piano lessons to becoming an innovative educator, author, and advocate for making music learning more engaging. She discusses the power of humor in teaching, the importance of creativity in piano education, and how her Blitz Books series transformed music theory learning. Samantha also reflects on the role of community, professional development, and making music accessible for all.

Mario Ajero, The Future of Piano Teaching in a Digital World | S2 E23

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, special guest and technology guru Dr. Mario Ajero joins host Alejandro Cremaschi, as they explore how technology transforms piano education. From the rise of online lessons to the evolution of digital tools, he shares insights on how teachers adapted during COVID-19, the benefits of remote learning, and the future of piano pedagogy in a tech-driven world. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on the intersection of music and technology!

Thank you to our sponsor of this episode, Piano Marvel!

Leila Viss, Sparking Creativity and Curiosity in Piano Education | S2 E22

Host Andrea McAlister is joined by Leila Viss, who shares how creativity, curiosity, and flexibility can transform piano education. She discusses the power of improvisation, adapting lessons to students’ needs, and encouraging exploration beyond the written score. Tune in for inspiring insights on making piano learning more engaging and dynamic.

Gail Berenson, The Power of Mentorship in Shaping Pianists and Educators | S2 E21

In this episode of The Piano Inspires Podcast, Dr. Gail Berenson reflects on the transformative role of mentorship in piano education. She shares personal stories about the teachers who shaped her journey, the importance of guiding the next generation, and how collaborative learning creates lasting impact. With insights on pedagogy, musical growth, and lifelong learning, Gail offers an inspiring look at the relationships that define a pianist’s path.

Search
Piano Inspires logo featuring stylized diagonal stripes in orange, gold, and teal, next to the text 'Piano Inspires' in bold black lettering.