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Spotlight on Tony Caramia

Written By Curtis Pavey
Tony Caramia in a gray suit against a white background.
Tony Caramia

To celebrate the latest episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast featuring Tony Caramia, we are spotlighting his extensive scholarship and research published by The Frances Clark Center. Tony Caramia is Professor of Piano and Director of the Piano Pedagogy Studies at the Eastman School of Music. In 2021, he was honored by The Frances Clark Center with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his research, service, and contributions to piano education. Author of numerous resources on piano pedagogy, Caramia is a specialist in jazz pedagogy. Read more below about his scholarship published by The Frances Clark Center.

MAGAZINE ARTICLE: Discovering Dana: A Hidden American Treasure

In this article, Tony Caramia writes about the life and work of pianist and composer Dana Suesse. A prominent jazz musician and composer, she wrote a great variety of works including her Concerto in Three Rhythms, which was inspired partially by Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue.1 Learn more about this American treasure by clicking here:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/discovering-dana-a-hidden-american-treasure/

Discovering Dana: A hidden American treasure
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: Gershwin’s Blue Lullaby

Gershwin’s Prelude No. 2 is renowned for its passionate, bluesy style. In this article by Tony Caramia, he traces its history, compares recordings, and offers performance suggestions. Interested in learning more about this Gershwin prelude? Read more by clicking here:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/gershwins-blue-lullaby/

Gershwin’s Blue Lullaby
VIDEO: Ignoring Dynamics

In this video collaboration with Diana Dumlavwalla and Chris Madden, Tony Caramia shares his tips to help pianists and piano teachers with the problem of “ignoring dynamics.” Using a story from one of his master classes, Caramia provides an insightful comparison about speech and music. Learn all of Caramia’s advice by watching the full video at this link:

https://pianoinspires.com/video/ignoring-dynamics/

Ignoring Dynamics
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: What Important Elements of Jazz Are Appropriate for Early-Level Students?

Do you ever wonder how early to start working with students in jazz styles? In this article by Martha Appleby, Ann Collins, and Tony Caramia, he provides tips and tricks to help jazz styles sound magnificent in the hands of developing students. With examples from the literature, this article is a wealth of information about teaching jazz styles. Discover these practical tips about teaching jazz to beginning students by clicking here:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/what-important-elements-of-jazz-are-appropriate-for-early-level-students/

What Important Elements of Jazz Are Appropriate for Early-Level Students?
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: Should students read the technique they practice? by Arthur Wilson, Tony Caramia, and Deborah Merrifield

Suggestions for teaching technique abound in this article by Tony Caramia and others about music reading and technique. In his response to the question, Caramia highlights the effectiveness of various approaches, but especially the potential for improvisation. Read Carmia’s full response by clicking here:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/keyboard-companion-autumn-1997-vol-8-no-3/

Keyboard Companion Autumn 1997; Vol. 8, No. 3

Want to learn more about Caramia? Check out the latest installment of the Piano Inspires Podcast. To learn more, visit pianoinspires.com. Listen to our latest episode with Caramia on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or our website!

Notes
  1. Tony Caramia, “Discovering Dana: A Hidden American Treasure” Piano Magazine 6, no. 3 (May 2014): 44, https://pianoinspires.com/3d-flip-book/clavier-companion-may-2014/.

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Reflections on the Frances Clark Center 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

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Tony Caramia, Where Jazz, Pedagogy, and the Piano Meet | S3 E24

Written By Piano Inspires

In the latest episode of the Piano Inspires podcast, host Craig Sale sits down with renowned pianist and pedagogue Tony Caramia. Their conversation includes Caramia’s early experiences in both jazz and classical music, traces his diverse career path, and delves into his thoughtful perspectives on the future of piano pedagogy. Tune in for an enlightening and inspiring discussion.

A special thank you to Piano Marvel for sponsoring this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast!

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Collegiate Connections – Call for Proposals!

Written By Piano Inspires
A photo showing a pianist with their hands above a keyboard in response to sound.

Collegiate Connections, a professional engagement initiative for students and faculty, supports the innovative work of emerging leaders, scholars, and artists. The program provides opportunities for collegiate groups and classes to submit term and annual projects to be showcased in an online national event. The program aims to foster peer connections and collaboration through the exchange of ideas, scholarship, and dialogue from across the country.

We invite collegiate groups in pedagogy, repertoire, related performance and interdisciplinary classes along with their faculty mentors to submit a group project. Projects may cover a wide range of topics such as creative teaching projects, lecture and musical presentations, community engagement, social justice, business entrepreneurship projects, and more. We welcome all group submissions.

Selected group projects will be featured in the inaugural Collegiate Connections online national event on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 11:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Eastern. The online gathering aims to foster community exchange and will highlight these innovative and collaborative projects from selected collegiate groups and their faculty mentors. Selected projects may also be included in various Piano Inspires online and print resources, such as Inspiring Artistry, From the Artist Bench, Discovery Page, Piano Magazine, and Piano Inspires Kids.

The Proposals Submission Portal is open now. The deadline for project proposal submission is March 30, 2026. Please visit pianoinspires.com for submission information. Please join us as we explore and amplify the dynamic work of the next generation of piano educators and trailblazers.

Submit a proposal
Event Registration

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Foundational Piano Pedagogy (Self-Guided)

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5 Reasons I Chose the NSMS Postgraduate Teaching Program

Written By Nathaniel Maxwell
The New School for Music Study.
1. The Renown of Current and Former Faculty/Contributors 

Through various conferences, pedagogy classes, and networking opportunities during my time as a master’s student, I heard countless stories of well-known pianists and pedagogues who have either taught at NSMS or have contributed to the various resources that The Frances Clark Center offers. 

2. Personal Testimony of Former Participants of the Program 

Hearing not just one, but multiple first-hand accounts of experiences with the NSMS Teaching Program truly revealed what a formative experience it was in their teaching journey. Hearing someone else talk about how wonderful their time was elicited a desire to experience the same (and I have!). 

3. Encouragement of Mentors 

The encouragement of teachers who I respect and trust had high remarks about the program and encouraged me to apply, seeing it as a highly beneficial next step in my musical journey.  

4. A Chance to Dive Deep into my Teaching Identity 

The program offers a highly unique opportunity to simultaneously gain real-world teaching experience while also being mentored, and all in a manner that is tailored to the individual. NSMS has designed the program to assist the mentee in their discovery of their own teaching identity while pouring into them the leading research and pedagogical practices of the piano field. Having access to this rich environment is an opportunity that I do not foresee myself having in the future, and is truly the perfect program for a recent graduate. 

5. Lifelong Community of Fellow Music Makers 

Becoming a part of The Frances Clark Center network means creating lifelong friendships and professional  acquaintances. Being surrounded by a close-knit community of fellow pianists and pedagogues not only provides connections through which to grow as a teacher, but more importantly, forms lasting bonds over something so integral to who I am. NSMS is the perfect place to experience and create the musical moments that serve as the backbone for these relationships, growing together with colleagues, friends, and an entire generation of developing musicians.

Nathaniel Maxwell holds a Master of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma and undergraduate degrees in Mathematics and Music from Duke University. He is currently enrolled in the postgraduate teaching program and serves on the faculty at NSMS, where he is committed to fostering students’ musical development and appreciation for the piano.

Nathaniel Maxwell poses for a headshot wearing a collared shirt against a blurred green background.
Nathaniel Maxwell

Interested in applying to the NSMS Postgraduate Teaching Program? Applications are due on April 17, 2026. Learn more and apply now by clicking here.

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Then and Now: A Retrospective of the New School for Music Study’s Sixty Years

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Carol Leone, Expanding Possibilities at the Piano | S3 E23

Written By Piano Inspires

In this episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, host Artina McCain interviews Carol Leone, Professor of Piano and Chair of Piano Studies at Southern Methodist University. She shares insights from her musical training, reflects on her journey as an educator, and discusses her work with ergonomic keyboards to promote healthier, more accessible piano playing. Join us for an informative and insightful conversation with Carol Leone!

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Spotlight on Carol Leone

Written By Curtis Pavey
Profile of Carol Leone
Carol Leone

To celebrate the latest episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast featuring Carol Leone, we are spotlighting her extensive scholarship and research published by The Frances Clark Center. Dr. Carol Leone is Professor of Piano and Chair of Piano Studies at Southern Methodist University. A graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music and the University of North Texas, Dr. Leone is in demand as a competition adjudicator and recitalist worldwide. In addition to numerous recordings, Dr. Leone is well known for her scholarship on varied topics. Read more below to learn about her approach to interpreting advanced repertoire, understanding performance practice, and working with reduced-size keyboards.

MAGAZINE ARTICLE: HOW IMPORTANT ARE EDITIONS FOR THE EARLIEST REPERTOIRE?

In this article, Leone shares important stylistic tips for understanding Baroque music and how these elements can sometimes conflict with edited scores. Using the pieces from the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach as a reference point, she walks the reader through a number of challenges including determining tempo, articulation, and dynamics. Learn from her ideas, as well as those of Martha Appleby and E. L. Lancaster in this article below:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/how-important-are-editions-for-the-earliest-repertoire/

How Important Are Editions for the Earliest Repertoire?
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: SIZE IS KEY

Have you ever noticed that your hand size or the hand size of one of your students doesn’t adequately fit the keyboard? Perhaps octaves or wider intervals feel “stretchy” or out of reach/ If so, then this article about reduced-size keyboards will illuminate a fascinating solution to a common challenge. In this article, Leone discusses her experience using these keyboards both in her own work and with students. Discover her approach below:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/size-is-key/

Size is key
WEBINAR: HAND SPAN, KEYBOARD SIZE, AND ERGONOMICS: ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL

In this webinar featuring Ju-Yang (Dino) Chi, Rhonda Boyle, Carol Leone, Erica Booker, and  Alejandro Cremaschi, learn about recent research that describes the benefits of reduced-size keyboards. Leone joins the conversation towards the end to discuss her experience with these keyboards and makes the case for greater implementation. Listen to the full webinar at the link below:

https://pianoinspires.com/webinar/march-10-2023-webinar/

Hand Span, Keyboard Size, and Ergonomics: One Size Does Not Fit All
WEBINAR: BEETHOVEN’S SLOW MOVEMENTS

In this webinar on Beethoven, Leone demystifies challenges with the slow movements from Beethoven’s piano sonatas. Many pianists struggle to find an appropriate tempo and character for these works, and Leone provides her tips for interpreting these works. Discover her approach by using the link below:

https://pianoinspires.com/webinar/carol-leone/

Beethoven’s Slow Movements
VIDEO: CHOPIN’S POLONAISE FANTASIE: A LOVE STORY EXPRESSED THROUGH SONG AND DANCE

In this From the Artist Bench video, Leone provides her expert tips for interpreting Chopin’s magnificent Polonaise Fantasie, Op. 61. Leone begins by discussing five special features, shares her ideas about the structure, and then performs the piece entirely. Enjoy her remarkable lecture recital at the link below:

https://pianoinspires.com/video/carol-leone/

Chopin’s Polonaise Fantasie: A Love Story Expressed Through Song and Dance

Want to learn more about Leone? Check out the latest installment of the Piano Inspires Podcast. To learn more, visit pianoinspires.com. Listen to our latest episode with Leone on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or our website!

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How an Alternatively Sized Keyboard Transformed my Artistry and Life as a Musician and Teacher

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Visit Us at MTNA: Special Events and Sales

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

We are looking forward to connecting with you at MTNA 2026! Visit us at booth #602 and #603 in the exhibit hall.

Booth Events
  • Meet the Editors | Sunday, March 22, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Meet the Authors and Composers | Monday, March 23, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Career Advancement | Tuesday, March 24, 12:00 -1:00 PM
Three members of The Frances Clark Center team pose for a picture at The Frances Clark Center booth at NCKP: The Piano Conference.
Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Marvin Blickenstaff

In collaboration with the Music Teachers National Association, The Frances Clark Center invites you to join us for a special gathering honoring the life and legacy of Marvin Blickenstaff.

Music Teachers National Association Annual Conference

Chicago Ballroom D

Sunday, March 22, 2026 

6:15 PM

We hope you will join us for this time of remembrance and shared appreciation.

Marvin Blickenstaff in a dark suit poses for a picture at a piano against a black backdrop.
Marvin Blickenstaff
Giveaways

Prize #1: Studio Resources

  • Value: $270
  • Studio Management Course
  • Recreational Music Making Course
  • Questions and Answers Book
  • Piano Inspires Kids Annual Collection, Volume 1
  • Piano Magazine Subscription
Frances Clark's book "Questions and Answers: Practical Advice for Piano Teachers" placed in front of a stack of books published by The Frances Clark Center and others.

Prize #2: Repertoire 

  • Value: $160
  • Women Composers Course
  • Piano Inspires Kids Annual Collection, Volume 2
  • Weaving Sounds
  • Dancétudes
  • Easter Monday Swagger
Repertoire books featuring music by Native and Indigenous Composers and Thomas H. Kerr Jr. placed near a plant.

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Foundational Piano Pedagogy (Self-Guided)

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Announcing the Spring 2026 Issue of Piano Magazine

Written By Piano Inspires

Announcing the Spring 2026 issue of Piano Magazine! The Spring 2026 issue of Piano Magazine is dedicated to Marvin Blickenstaff, whose lifelong contributions shaped generations of piano teachers and students around the world. Through a remarkable career spanning more than six decades, Marvin dedicated himself to a life of service to piano pedagogy and artistry. He believed deeply in the power of music to connect people, elevate teaching, and reveal the potential within each student.

Go to pianoinspires.com/magazine to read the digital issue.

Not a subscriber? Use the discount code SPRING for 15% off your subscription.

Articles in This Issue of Piano Magazine

Jennifer Snow in a
Creating a More Beautiful World: Marvin Blickenstaff 1935-2026

Jennifer Snow

There are visionary leaders who inspire the world, motivate us to be better humans, and recognize that creating beauty in the life of a child is critical for a healthy society and sustainable future. Marvin Blickenstaff embodied all these attributes and more. He was a giant amongst us. A man of profound faith and spiritual calling, with a deep dedication to serving others, Marvin committed his life to human development though music. He was a man of the highest character, leading each day with integrity, selflessness, humility, grace, care, and kindness. His generosity knew no limits. With boundless energy, he leaned into life at full speed with an insatiable curiosity, joyous enthusiasm, and innovative outlook.

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Marvin Blickenstaff: A Life Dedicated in Service to Piano Education

Sara Ernst

Marvin Blickenstaff (1935-2026) had so much to give throughout his lifetime and he gave of it freely–to everyone. Many of Us have heard his heartfelt stories, and we were always ready to to listen because through his anecdotes, Marvin shared what is most important in life. The foundational tenet being, “the value of life is not what you get for yourself; it’s what you give to others.” He learned this lesson in his formative years, in his family’s household in Nampa, Idaho, with a father, a dentist, who served his community and ensured that his sons did as well.

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Ivan Hurd in a dark blue suit against a colorful blurred background outside.
Gradus ad Parnassum: Climbing to Debussy through Educational Repertoire

Ivan Hurd

As students progress to intermediate repertoire and start to explore piano literature on their own, teachers can expect requests to study two of Claude Debussy’s (1862–1918) most well- known works for solo piano, Arabesque No. 1 and “Clair de lune” from the Suite Bergamasque.1 However, even the easiest pieces by Debussy include challenges such as difficult key signatures, polyrhythms, and less familiar scales and harmonies; they require sophisticated pedaling, phrasing, and attention to articulation.

Read more

The Hidden Voices of Brazilian Women Composers

Rosângela Yazbec Sebba

In the ever-evolving tapestry of Brazilian history, the echoes of colonialism left an indelible mark on its society and culture. During the span of over three centuries, from 1500 to 1822, we see evidence of a nation under the shadow of Portuguese rule. This was a time when the rhythm of life was dictated by the plantation economy, the subjugation of enslaved peoples, and a rigid social hierarchy.

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Reimagining Summer Practice: How Community-Based Recitals Inspire Musical Growth

Anthony Olson and Eva Peng

Sustaining student motivation and musical growth during the summer months remains a persistent challenge in music education. This article explores an interdisciplinary model for summer music education that integrates community engagement, environmental awareness, and creative exploration through themed recital programming. Based on a multi-year project, the model is designed to maintain student motivation and skill retention during the summer months. This model situates music within broader cultural, ecological, and civic frameworks.

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Mind, Body, & Heart: Three Steps to Mindful Music-Making

Laura Amoriello

The first time I meditated, it felt like my brain was on fire. I had no idea how busy my mind was. Jammed with worries and plans, I could barely focus for one breath. I can’t do this, I thought. Yet I kept coming back to my weekly meditation group. I liked my classmates, who seemed as skeptical as I was. After each practice, we shared a similar reaction: Oh, well. That was nice, I guess. Weeks went by. I began to notice tiny shifts. A little less worrying. A little more sleep. I meandered on.Cut to my first solo performance after taking up meditation. I wish I could tell you that I was less nervous. I wasn’t. But I was more present. I wasn’t fixated on mistakes I had made or focused on getting to the end. I was hearing and feeling every note I was playing. My senses were more vivid than ever, and my focus was razor-sharp. All of that was stronger than the fear.

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More Articles in this Issue of Piano Magazine

Editor’s Letter – Pamela D. Pike

Questions and Answers – Marvin Blickenstaff

In Memoriam: Marvin Blickenstaff – Various Authors

Book Review: Accompaniment in America: Contextualizing Collaborative Piano by Chandra VanderHart with (contributions from) Kathleen Kelly and Elvia Puccinelli – Ann DuHamel

New Music & Materials – Various Authors

Recording Reviews – Various Authors

Pupil Saver – Jason Sifford

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Read the full story and more articles at pianoinspires.com/magazine. Not a subscriber? Subscribe to our 100%-human-generated, peer-reviewed magazine today for as low as $3/month.

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Summer 2025; Vol. 17, No. 2

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Spotlight on Christopher Norton

Written By Curtis Pavey
Chris Norton seated in front of a piano.
Chris Norton

To celebrate the latest episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast featuring Christopher Norton, we are spotlighting his extensive scholarship and research published by The Frances Clark Center. Christopher Norton is a composer, arranger, pianist, and producer who has revolutionized piano instruction with his pedagogical music. Known especially for his Microjazz publications, Norton has specialized in contemporary popular styles, making these accessible for all. Read more below to learn about his compositions, teaching contemporary jazz and pop styles, his approach to composing, and more.

MAGAZINE ARTICLE: PLAYING CONTEMPORARY POP

In this article, Norton provides some ideas about working with students in contemporary pop styles. A review of modes, pop textures, and chord progressions makes all the difference! Discover more insights about playing contemporary pop by clicking here:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/playing-contemporary-pop/

Playing Contemporary Pop
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: IMPROVISING FOR NON-IMPROVISERS

In this article, Norton provides practical advice to make improvisation easy for anyone. Using his piece, Inner-City Stomp, Norton gives a step-by-step approach to make this task a delight for student and teacher alike. Read more of Norton’s tip by reading the article linked below:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/improvising-for-non-improvisers/

Improvising for non-improvisers
REPERTOIRE VIDEO: CHRISTOPHER NORTON: FANTASY BOSSA

Discover Norton’s Fantasy Bossa in this repertoire video! Hear from the composer himself as he performs and discusses the musical and technical challenges of this piece. Learn more teaching and performance tips by watching this video:

https://pianoinspires.com/video/christopher-norton-fantasy-bossa/

Christopher Norton: Fantasy bossa
WEBINAR: COMPOSER CONVERSATIONS: CHRISTOPHER NORTON

In this inspiring conversation between Jennifer Snow and Christopher Norton discuss his life as a composer, his compositional process, and his publications. Watch the entire conversation by clicking here:

https://pianoinspires.com/webinar/christopher-norton/

Christopher Norton
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: JAZZ & POP: AN INTRODUCTION TO SKA

In this article, Norton provides some teaching tips for ska music. Ska is a Jamaican musical style with exciting off-beat rhythms that create an appealing groove. Norton’s expert guidance makes this style approachable for anyone. Learn more about his ideas by reading the link below:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/january-2011-vol-3-no-1/

January 2011; Vol. 3, No. 1
MAGAZINE ARTICLE: DIGITAL ONLY CONTENT: SPEAK OUT! FIVE-AND-A-HALF MINUTES WITH COMPOSER, CHRISTOPHER NORTON

In this exciting interview with Christopher Norton, Deborah Rambo Sinn asks about Norton’s life as a composer, his musical upbringing, and his plans for future composition projects. Read the full article by clicking the link below:

https://pianoinspires.com/article/digital-only-content-speak-out-five-and-a-half-minutes-with-composer-christopher-norton/

DIGITAL ONLY CONTENT: Speak out! Five-and-a-half minutes with composer, Christopher Norton

Want to learn more about Norton? Check out the latest installment of the Piano Inspires Podcast. To learn more, visit pianoinspires.com. Listen to our latest episode with Norton on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or our website!

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How Do You Teach Students to Read Who Already Play by Ear?

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Christopher Norton, Bridging Classical Tradition and Contemporary Styles | S3 E22

Written By Piano Inspires

Listen now to this inspiring episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast, featuring host Heather Smith with guest Christopher Norton. Norton, originally from New Zealand, is an award-winning pianist and composer, whose collections such as Microjazz, have revolutionized piano teaching. Tune in to learn more about Norton’s initial training, his entry into the world of composition, and his compositional process.

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Announcing Spring 2026 Piano Inspires Kids: Music & Movement 

Written By Piano Inspires

The Spring 2026 Issue of Piano Inspires Kids is coming soon! Subscribers will be receiving the print issue in their mailboxes in the coming weeks. Not yet a subscriber? Click here to receive the issue and give the gift of music to the musicians in your life! Keep reading for a sneak peek into the Spring Issue.

A decorative graphic featuring a keyboard, a grand piano with an eighth note, and the Piano Inspires Kids logo.

We’re thrilled to announce the release of the Spring 2026 issue of Piano Inspires Kids—Music & Movement. In this issue, you’ll discover:

  • How we use whole the body to play the piano, 
  • The Dalcroze method of moving to and exploring music,
  • New music by Dennis Alexander, Cloches dans la nuit,
  • How to keep repertoire fresh before a performance, and
  • Spring birthdays of piano composers from around the world.
A sample page from the Spring 2026 Issue of Piano Inspires kids highlighting Dalcroze and movement within music.

Don’t miss this issue full of inspiring music, movement, and new music! 

Want to learn more about Piano Inspires Kids? Watch our webinar, “Inside Piano Inspires Kids: A New Publication of the Frances Clark Center” with Co-Editors-in-Chief Sara Ernst and Andrea McAlister: click here.

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Piano Inspires Kids: An Interview with Co-Editors-in-Chief Andrea McAlister and Sara Ernst

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Celebrating Women in Music

Written By Piano Inspires, Teresa Rupp
A photograph of women leaders in piano pedagogy posing against a stone wall.

This month, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time to honor and reflect upon the remarkable music and contributions of women. In this Discovery Page post, we have curated a collection of Piano Inspires resources to help everyone discover something new. From our international webinar series, to articles in Piano Magazine and Piano Inspires Kids, to our online course, Hidden Gems: Four Centuries of Music by Women Composers, there is so much to discover! We hope these resources will provide useful tips and ideas to help you incorporate music by women composers into your recital programs, lesson plans, and more.

Courses:

Hidden Gems: Four Centuries of Piano Music by Women Composers is an online course designed to shed light on a fraction of the large breadth of works by talented women composers spanning four centuries. Sessions feature selected piano works at varying levels of difficulty (elementary to early advanced), surveyed from a pedagogical and performance perspective.

  • Organized in 9 clearly defined sessions covering works by 22 composers
  • Features teaching demonstration videos, performances, readings, reflection activities, and more
  • Progress at your own pace
  • Easily return to completed sessions for later review
  • Full-course completion time is approximately 10 hours

Course Co-Leaders: Dr. Annie Jeng, Dr. Susan Yang, Evan Hines, Dr. Brendan Jacklin, Dr. Clare Longendyke, and Ashlee Young.
Senior Editor: Craig Sale.

Hidden Gems: Four Centuries of Piano Music by Women Composers

Inspiring Artistry Video Series:

Chaminade: Chanson bretonne, Op. 76, No. 5
Bonis: “Aubade” from Scènes enfantines, Op. 92
Tanaka: “Crested Ibis” from Children of Light
Price: Down a Southern Lane
Boulanger: Cortège from Trois morceaux pour piano
Hensel: Melodie in C-sharp Minor, Op. 4, No. 2
Goolkasian Rahbee: Monday Morning in the City
Capers: Portraits in Jazz: No. 3 “Sweet Mister Jelly Roll” and No. 7 “Billie’s Song”
Hopekirk: Five Scottish Folk Songs

From the Artist Bench Series:

Bonds: Troubled Water
Lushtak: Old and New
Romances Op. 11 by Clara Schumann & Fantasiestücke Op. 12 by Robert Schumann
Southam: Glass Houses No. 7
Bonis: Femmes de legende: Melisande, Desdemona, Phoebe, & Omphale
Hensel: Song for Piano in B Minor, Op. 8, No. 1
Torrá: Piano Sonata
Southam: Glass Houses No. 3
Bauer: Preludes, Op. 15, Nos. 4-6

Magazine Article: Women of Exceptional Accomplishment: Eight Women Composers by Teresa Rupp

Recently I participated in a concert featuring works by women composers at the community college where I study piano. I am an amateur pianist but a historian by profession, and I was curious about the backgrounds of these long-neglected figures. So, along with preparing my musical selections, I also investigated the lives of the composers and the social and musical contexts in which they worked. Some of the composers I researched—Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel, Clara Wieck Schumann, Amy Beach—are practically household names. Others—Élisabeth Jacquet de la Guerre, Maria Szymanowska, Cécile Chaminade, Margaret Ruthven Lang—were successful in their own times but less prominent today. Still another—Clara Gottschalk Peterson—was obscure during her lifetime and remains almost completely unknown. All, however, deserve a place in both the performing and teaching repertoire.

Given the general lack of prominence of women composers, it is instructive to realize that while historically women were discouraged from pursuing music as a career, whether as performers or composers, that doesn’t mean that they didn’t make music. Quite the opposite, in fact. Example 1, a French fashion plate from 1835, shows two young ladies playing piano and singing in what looks like a domestic setting. It’s likely to be after dinner, and they’ve been asked to provide the evening’s entertainment. The singer is holding sheet music, not performing from memory, so they are probably sightreading (see Example 1).

Read the full article by clicking here.

Women of Exceptional Accomplishment: Eight Women Composers

Teacher Education Webinar Series:

Women Composers from Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula
Women in Higher Education
Hidden Gems: Four Centuries of Piano Music by Women Composers

Piano Inspires Kids:

In Autumn 2023, the Frances Clark Center launched a new initiative, Piano Inspires Kids, a magazine for young pianists developed by Editors-in-Chief Sara Ernst and Andrea McAlister. Through each quarterly issue, readers explore piano playing, composers, music from around the world, and music theory. The format is engaging and varied with listening guides, interviews, student submissions, music in the news, and games. The magazine includes an array of musical styles and genres, both from the past and present day. In addition, creative skills like improvisation, playing by ear, and composition are explored in step-by-step processes. Young pianists are directed to curated online content to deepen their engagement with the piano community.

To learn more, or to subscribe, go to kids.pianoinspires.com. 

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This Month in Piano History: March 2026

Written By Curtis Pavey

In this post remembering important events from piano history in the month of March, learn about the birth of two prominent composers, read about the premiere of one of the greatest oratorios, and remember a pioneering Croatian composer.

A portrait by Delacroix of Frédéric Chopin in a romantic and colorful painting.
Frédéric Chopin

March 1 – Birth of Frédéric Chopin

Frédéric Chopin was born on March 1, 1810 in Żelazowa Wola, a small town outside of Warsaw. While he spent most of his adult life in Paris, Chopin’s love for the music of his homeland shows up in his mazurkas and polonaises. His virtuosic technique led to incredible new heights in piano playing, notably in his etudes, sonatas, and ballades. Today, Chopin is remembered in the annual International Chopin Piano Competition held every five years in Warsaw, Poland. Interested in learning about Chopin’s approach to teaching? Read this article by Jane Magrath about Chopin’s teaching style:

Chopin’s teaching

March 3 – Birth of Margaret Bonds

Margaret Bonds, an American composer, was born on March 3, 1913 in Chicago, Illinois. One of the most important students of Florence Price, Bonds was a Black composer known especially for her vocal compositions. One of her best known piano compositions is Spiritual Suite, a collection of three advanced works including “Troubled Water.” Are you teaching or learning Bond’s “Troubled Water?” Discover many excellent performance tips from pianist Sarah Rushing in this From the Artist Bench video:

Bonds: Troubled Water

March 5 – Death of Dora Pejačević

Dora Pejačević was a prominent Croatian composer and pianist who lived from 1885 to her untimely death on March 5, 1923 at the age of 37 after childbirth. Her compositional output of 58 opuses includes a variety of works for solo piano as well as lieder, a symphony, a piano concerto, and multiple chamber compositions.Typical of this transition period, her works are Romantic in style and explore virtuosic pianistic textures set against lyrical melodic lines. Interested in learning more about Dora Pejačević’s piano music? Check out these two repertoire videos by pianists Asher Armstrong and Ryan Kee:

Pejačević: Piano Sonata in A-Flat, Op. 57
Dora Pejačević: Erinnerung (Remembrance), Op. 24

March 23 – London Premiere of Handel’s Messiah

Although George Frederic Handel wrote a number of excellent works for keyboard, he was especially known for his operas and oratorios. On March 23, 1743, Handel’s famous oratorio Messiah was premiered in London. The three-part English oratorio is a musical delight, featuring over two hours of arias, choruses, and instrumental selections. Many pianists first encounter Handel through his Gavotte in G Major. Watch this video to learn more about this important pedagogical piece from pianist David Cartledge:

Handel: Gavotte in G Major, HWV 491 (“Rigaudon”)
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Tracy Cowden, Building Community Through Collaboration | S3 E21

Written By Piano Inspires

Tune in to the latest episode of the Piano Inspires podcast, where host Alejandro Cremaschi sits down with pianist, pedagogue, and arts advocate Tracy Cowden. Their conversation explores Cowden’s musical beginnings, her wide-ranging career, and her current work—including leading a band for military veterans in San Antonio, Texas. Listen now to hear her inspiring perspective on the power of music to shape the world.

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Piano Inspires Kids: 2026 Composition Contest

Written By Piano Inspires

The Spring 2026 Issue of Piano Inspires Kids is coming soon! Subscribers will be receiving the print issue in their mailboxes in the coming weeks. Not yet a subscriber? Click here to receive the issue and give the gift of music to the musicians in your life! Keep reading for a sneak peek into the Winter Issue.

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Become a Video Game Composer with the Piano Inspires Kids 2026 Composition Contest!

In video games, the main character often has its own theme song that compliments its personality. Create your dream video game character—someone or something original with its own personality and story—and compose a theme song. Winners will be featured in the Summer 2026 issue of Piano Inspires Kids.

Submission Deadline: March 16, 2026.

Go to kids.pianoinspires.com/submit for more information.

Submit the following four items by the deadline:

  • Drawing or graphic design of the video game character
  • Short description of the game character and theme song; how does the theme song fit the character? (maximum 100 words)
  • Composition score
  • Video performance of the work, performed by the composer

Guidelines

  • The competition is open for any student pianist age 18 or younger at the time of the deadline. Students will be divided into 4 divisions: ages 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, and 16-18. The magazine reserves the right to elect one winner, more than one winner, or no winner.
  • The composition must be for solo piano, at any level of difficulty.
  • The video game character must be completely original without reference to any existing game.
  • A video performance of the work, performed by the composer, must be included.
  • Scores or characters that reference copyrighted material will be excluded from review.

Ideas to Get You Started

  • Brainstorm your video game character and storyline.
    Use imagery and storyline to determine the character, mood, and musical form.
  • Decide on the meter and specify a time signature. 
  • Have clear musical ideas (themes or motifs) that use a rhythm, melody, or harmony that repeats or varies.
  • Have parts that repeat and parts that contrast.
  • Keep it simple – less is more!

Notation

  • Scores must be computer generated using music-notation software. 
  • The quality of notation does factor into adjudication. 
  • Scores must be submitted as a PDF, sized for 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
  • Scores must include a title and composer first name only. 
  • Entrants are encouraged to include the following in the score: tempo markings, dynamics and articulation, other expressive marks, and fingerings.

Policies

  • Submitters must subscribe to Piano Inspires Kids.
  • The composer must be the sole author of the submitted composition but may receive help in notating their work. 
  • Compositions must not be created with the use of artificial intelligence. 
  • If artificial intelligence is utilized in the creation of the video game character, this must be cited as AI generated. There is no penalty for using AI for the graphic element.
  • Adjudication is based upon: connection of music and character, formal construction, pianistic writing, quality of performance, and relevance to call. The video game character itself will not be evaluated.
  • No changes may be made once the materials have been submitted.
  • Decisions of competition judges are final.
  • There are no monetary awards given to winners. Winning compositions will be printed in Piano Inspires Kids and posted at kids.pianoinspires.com.
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Want to learn more about Piano Inspires Kids? Watch our webinar, “Inside Piano Inspires Kids: A New Publication of the Frances Clark Center” with Co-Editors-in-Chief Sara Ernst and Andrea McAlister: click here.

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Piano Inspires Kids: An Interview with Co-Editors-in-Chief Andrea McAlister and Sara Ernst

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