In honor of her birthday, we celebrate and remember the legacy of piano pedagogue Frances Clark. A pioneer in the field of piano pedagogy, her vision and extraordinary capacity to inspire great teaching revolutionized the piano world. From teaching resources to her work at the New School for Music Study to her timeless lectures, Frances Clark built a movement that continues to impact generations of teachers and students worldwide. To celebrate her legacy, we are delighted to share the following resources that highlight her magnificent work and scholarship in the field. Learn more through her writings, video lectures, and more!
Video: Perspectives on teaching
Watch this special footage from a lecture given by Frances Clark to an audience at the State University of New York in June 1989. Speaking about the state of change throughout the 80s, Clark inspires us to reconnect with our teaching principles and help every child reach their potential in the light of generational and societal change. Watch the full video by clicking here:
MAGAZINE ARTICLES: A Philosophy of Piano Pedagogy
In this special print of a lecture given by Frances Clark in 1970, she shares her philosophy on piano teaching and how one can inspire any student to enjoy the act of music-making. Noticing the rising importance of the arts in society, Clark makes an impassioned plea for all music teachers to reconsider how their work impacts music students and their families in dramatic ways. Read the full article by clicking here:
Video: Conversations
In this three-part series, Robert Silverman and Frances Clark discuss the nature of piano teaching in this conversation from a conference at the State University of New York in June 1989. Throughout the conversation, Clark explains her philosophy of teaching, allowing one to see how her vision aligns with profound changes to educational philosophy. Watch each of the three parts by clicking on the links below:
Book: Questions and Answers: Practical Advice for Piano Teachers
For more than 26 years, piano teachers across the country turned first to Frances Clark’s beloved “Questions and Answers” column in Clavier magazine for practical, insightful, and inspiring teaching advice. Now, this treasured collection brings together some of her finest responses—wisdom that continues to guide and uplift teachers today.
In this indispensable volume, Clark addresses the real-world challenges of piano teaching with clarity and compassion. Topics include lesson planning, rhythm, theory, ear training, memorization, phrasing, group lessons, recitals, adult students, and transfer students—each explored with her signature warmth, humor, and experience.
Frances Clark’s writing has inspired generations of teachers to reflect, grow, and bring more joy and artistry into their teaching. Whether you are a beginning instructor or a seasoned pedagogue, this book will become a trusted companion in your studio.
magazine article: How has keyboard pedagogy changed over the last 20-30 years? Part two
Learn more about Frances Clark’s teaching style in this article by Rebecca Johnson, Marvin Blickenstaff, and Louise Goss. In her section titled “A Lifetime Collaboration with Frances Clark,” Goss describes Clark’s electrifying teaching personality and revolutionary vision, which motivated her in her college days to help build a new style and approach for music teaching. Read the full article by clicking here:
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MORE ON FRANCES CLARK
- VIDEO: Perspectives on Teaching with Frances Clark
- PIANO MAGAZINE ARTICLE: A Philosophy of Piano Pedagogy by Frances Clark
- PIANO MAGAZINE ARTICLE: A Philosophy of Piano Pedagogy, Part 2 by Frances Clark
- PIANO MAGAZINE ARTICLE: September 2018: Questions & Answers by Frances Clark
- VIDEO: Conversations, Part 1 with Frances Clark
- VIDEO: Conversations, Part 2 with Frances Clark
- VIDEO: Conversations, Part 3 with Frances Clark
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