Thanks to the generosity of supporters around the world, The Marvin Blickenstaff Teaching Excellence Fund is advancing high-quality teacher education and raising the standard of piano instruction. Since its launch in 2023, the fund has supported new courses, teaching resources, and initiatives that reflect Marvin’s philosophy that piano teachers change lives and help create a more beautiful world.
As Marvin’s 90th birthday approaches on May 19, 2025, we are just $45,000 away from reaching our $250,000 fund goal. We invite you to join this meaningful effort by making a contribution to help complete this tribute in time for his milestone birthday.
Gifts can be made online at pianoinspires.com/marvin-blickenstaff.
From Chee-Hwa Tan:
Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for the role model Marvin Blickenstaff has provided, and continues to be, as a musician, teacher, and human being. From the first time I saw him in a masterclass at Southern Methodist University in the early 1990’s until today in 2025, I have always admired how he articulates and connects us all to the beauty and relevance of music making. These aspects of his teaching have made me think, “When I grow up, I want to be just like Marvin.” Fast forward to February of 2023 when I got to watch private lessons in his home, enjoy his generous hospitality, and ride with him to the New School for my teaching residency. I will never forget the privilege and joy of getting to host Marvin and Jennifer Snow in Colorado Springs for his “Colorado Tour” in October of 2023. What a glorious time for all of us. I thank him for being such an inspiration and encouragement of a life artistically and beautifully played and lived.
From Laura Harding:
I want to express my gratitude to Marvin Blickenstaff for being an inspiring piano teacher. His presentations, writings, and discussions have provided me and so many others with numerous, valuable teaching tools. I will always treasure the memory of my son, John, performing “Starfish at Night” in his master class; it was indeed a special moment.
He is not only an incredible piano educator but also a wonderful person. His influence has profoundly affected my life.
MORE ON THE POWER OF A PIANO TEACHER
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- 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
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