cnyamt teacher forum
Take some time for you and join your fellow teachers for an informal open discussion with topics relevant to your studio. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, gain insight, and share your experience. The topics will vary, but as we navigate the new realities of remote lessons, socially distanced lessons, and new technologies, you may find yourself wondering about:
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new studio setups for remote, in-person, or hybrid lesson schedules
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tools, resources, tips and tricks for successful virtual performances
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troubleshooting student motivation and engagement
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and, as always, whatever ideas or thoughts are on your mind!
This monthly event is a great way to stay connected and share ideas.
Bring your coffee or tea and share what's on your mind!
Zoom link goes out via email earlier in the week.
Contact: Mary Whittington, Chair
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February's Teacher Forum, on Thursday, February 15th, featured members Elena Nezhdanova and Roman Placzek in an in person event at Artist Pianos. They presented on their technique and physiologically- informed pedagogical approaches in a lively and enjoyable discussion. For those of us who have been wanting to learn more about Irina Gorin's "Tales of a Musical Journey" piano method series and its thoughtful adaptation of Russian non legato technique for modern American students, Elena's presentation was a great opportunity. Roman's original cello method materials, including the use of modal tonalities and customizable exercises to ensure students' physical wellbeing while learning, were of interest and value to all music educators, as was his knowledge of the ins and outs of illustrating, editing, and self-publishing these beautiful materials!
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We would like to thank Elena and Roman for the inspirational morning, and Artist Pianos for hosting us! Our teacher forums continue to be a source of new ideas and camaraderie for me, and I'm grateful to the chance to offer these events to CNYAMT members. I hope to see you at one of our upcoming forums!
Upcoming Teacher Forum Dates:
Thursday, 3/21 11 via Zoom
Thursday, 4/18 11 am via Zoom
Friday, 5/17 2 pm in person
Mary Whittington
Chair, Teacher Forums
Previous Topics
Creating and updating your studio policy
Special forum for instrumental teachers
CNYAMT fundraising and recital venues
Resuming in-person lessons, online teaching platforms and equipment
Remote lesson strategies, general chat
Virtual community outreach; remote, in-person, and hybrid lessons
Virtual recitals
Community outreach recitals in senior living environments.
Guest speaker: Susan French, CNAMT member teacher and Certified Music Practitioner
recital venues, studio policies and rates, general chat
Advancing students into late intermediate repertoire
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT FRIDAY FORUMS...
Beth Scott
"I like the idea of these forums as an easy and helpful way for teachers to connect with each other. I commend you for having a focus topic, which is important as a starting point, yet still allowed for other discussion. Perhaps consider continuing even after pandemic restrictions ease up."
Dana DiGennaro
“It is so nice to be surrounded by so many warm and welcoming colleagues in such a positive setting as the Friday Forums. I am very thankful for their expertise and advice during such a difficult time."
Bernadette Kessler
These wide-ranging, open discussions always lead to sharing, creative suggestions, and ideas that evolve into actual events. Susan French, as one Forum's special guest speaker sparked a conversation that led to an innovative singalong community outreach recital specially geared toward senior living facilities!"
Barb Irwin
"The Friday Forum has been an excellent way to meet with new and present members who have experienced the challenge of teaching online this year. The exchange of ideas, problem solving, professional advice and camaraderie has been an invaluable experience."
Kim Farrell
"I've enjoyed our Friday Forums for a couple of reasons: getting together with new friends and having great, meaningful discussions, and brainstorming together to come up with new ideas and methods of teaching."