Louis Nagel, Teaching Students to Listen Beyond the Notes | S3 E14

Join us for a thoughtful conversation with host Craig Sale and Louis Nagel, Professor Emeritus of Music at the University of Michigan. In this episode, Nagel shares insightful perspectives on music, performance, and teaching, drawn from a distinguished career as both a pianist and an educator. This episode offers a rich look into a life dedicated to music and mentorship.

Brian Shepard, MTNA CEO, Building Community and Vision for Music Teachers | S3 E13

Start the new year with this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast featuring host Jennifer Snow as she interviews Brian Shepard. Shepard shares stories about his early beginnings at the piano, the impact of his teachers, and his rise within the Music Teachers National Association where he now serves as CEO. Tune in to learn more about Shepard’s vision and aspirations for the years ahead.

Janet Lopinski, Connecting Heritage, Pedagogy, and Leadership in Music | S3 E12

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, Janet Lopinski joins host, Sara Ernst, to discuss her journey as a pianist, teacher, and administrator. Lopinski reflects on her early musical experiences, experiences as a teacher, and her work with the Royal Conservatory of Music and the Canadian Chopin Society. Join us for an informative and insightful conversation with Janet Lopinski!

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.

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