Podcast

Jess Johnson: Mindfulness, Joy, and Transforming Lives Through Piano | S2 E15

In this inspiring episode, Jessica Johnson, professor of piano and pedagogy at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, shares how mindfulness and music transform lives. From her rural North Carolina roots to a career of teaching and advocacy, Jessica reflects on the piano as a source of healing, joy, and connection. She discusses overcoming perfectionism, empowering students…
Anton Nel, South African Concert Pianist and Professor of Piano and Chamber Music | S2 E14

Join host Artina McCain as she interviews Anton Nel, South African Concert Pianist and Professor of Piano and Chamber Music at Butler School of Music – University of Texas at Austin. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Nel’s teaching philosophy, the importance of nurturing creativity in students, and his passion for period instruments like the…
Jeremy Siskind, Award-winning Jazz Pianist, Composer, and Educator | S2E13

Host Andrea McAlister welcomes award-winning jazz pianist, composer, and educator Jeremy Siskind for an inspiring conversation on jazz, piano pedagogy, and the art of improvisation. Explore Jeremy’s innovative teaching methods, his passion for connecting classical and jazz traditions, and his journey as a musician shaping the future of piano education.
Martha Hilley, Professor Emeritus at UT Austin, Butler School of Music | S2 E12

Martha Hilley, Group Piano and Pedagogy Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus, shares her inspiring story on this episode with host Artina McCain. Listen to Hilley reflect on her long career at the Butler School of Music, her advice for young professionals, and her love for group piano and pedagogy.
Peter Mack, President of MTNA | S2 E11

Irish-born pianist Peter Mack is a nationally renowned performer, clinician, and convention artist, and the 2023-25 MTNA President. Listen to Peter Mack and host Andrea McAlister discuss Mack’s piano journey, his introduction to piano teaching, and the future of music and MTNA.
Catherine Rollin, Pianist, Composer, Clinician, and Author | S2 E10

Catherine Rollin is a pianist, composer, clinician, author, and teacher of prize-winning students. Her more than 400 published pedagogical compositions are recognized worldwide for their combination of musicality and “teachability.” Join host Pamela Pike and guest Catherine Rollin as they discuss Rollin’s piano journey, the inspirations behind her compositions, and her passion for teaching.
Sean Chen, Pianist, Composer, and Arranger | S2 E9

This episode features Sean Chen, pianist, composer, and arranger, playing with audiences around the world in solo and chamber recitals, concerto performances, and masterclasses, after having won the 2013 American Pianists Awards and placing third at the 2013 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Listen to this conversation between host Sara Ernst and Sean Chen as…
Midori Koga, Pianist, Chamber Musician, and Professor of Piano Pedagogy | S2 E8

This episode features Midori Koga, a prominent soloist and chamber musician with the Haven Trio, and is the founder of the University of Toronto Piano Pedagogy Program. Join Koga and host Andrea McAlister as they discuss the future of piano pedagogy, and how to inspire students to find their voice and maintain motivation.
Pete Jutras, Award-Winning Professor and Educator | S2 E7

This episode features Pete Jutras, award-winning professor and educator, and current Dean of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Listen to host Jennifer Snow interview Jutras as they discuss his introduction to piano pedagogy, his career focused on education, and advice for budding pianists and teachers.
Dennis Alexander, Educational Piano Music Composer | S2 E6

Join host Jennifer Snow as she interviews Dennis Alexander, who has an international reputation as one of the world’s most prolific and popular composers of educational piano music for students at all levels. Listen to Alexander’s start to the piano, his path as a composer, and the advice he shares for students and composers.
Annie Jeng, Taiwanese-American Pianist, Educator, and Collaborator | S2 E5

Join host Craig Sale as he interviews the well-esteemed pianist and educator, Annie Jeng. In this episode they discuss Jeng’s career in music, finding the right path for oneself, and promoting inclusion through her project, A Seat at the Piano.
Karen Walwyn, Pianist, Composer, and Florence Price Scholar | S2 E4

Join esteemed pianist Karen Walwyn and host Leah Claiborne as they discuss Walwyn’s career as a concert pianist and composer, and her dedication to studying underrepresented composers.
A Conversation with Tim Topham, Founder of TopMusic.co | S2 E3

Our next episode of the Piano Inspires Podcast features Tim Topham, Founder of TopMusic! Listen to the whole story about how he got started with piano, his ideas behind TopMusic, and his passion for music making in this interview led by Sara Ernst.
Season 2 Episode 2: Spencer Myer, Concert Pianist and Educator

Join acclaimed concert pianist Spencer Myer as he shares his musical journey in developing his artistry and a well-rounded career in performing and teaching.
Season 2 Episode 1: Legacy Episode with Dr. Frances Clark

Season 2 of Piano Inspires Podcast kicks off with a special legacy episode featuring Dr. Frances Clark.