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  • 050: 5 Things I’ve Learned in Hiring 20 Teachers

    050: 5 Things I’ve Learned in Hiring 20 Teachers
    2025/01/24
    Hiring music teachers has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of running a multi-teacher studio. After interviewing and hiring over 20 teachers, I’ve gained valuable insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how to navigate the process with confidence. In this solo episode, I’m sharing the five biggest lessons I’ve learned to help you make smarter hiring decisions and build a strong, reliable team for your studio. Whether you’re building a team or hiring for your independent studio, you’ll find practical advice to help navigate the process.
    • Rachel discusses her journey managing a church-based conservatory, starting from scratch in 2022 after the pandemic.
    • Some challenges she encountered in hiring music teachers.
    • Always prioritize in-person interviews to better assess candidates and their fit.
    • Candidates should experience the commute and see the teaching environment firsthand.
    • Punctuality, presentation, and overall first impressions are important considerations.
    • Flexible, conversational interviews tailored to the candidate provide more natural insights.
    • Standard questions include teaching experience, beginner strategies, and method book preferences.
    • Availability plays a critical role in hiring decisions.
    • Pay attention to red flags, such as lateness or negative talk about previous employers.
    • Importance of checking references for affirmation into the candidate’s strengths and growth areas.
    • Avoid hiring out of desperation, even if it causes temporary delays.
    • Embrace diversity by hiring candidates with strengths or backgrounds different from your own.
    • Trial lessons or second interviews can provide clarity when you’re uncertain.

    Links Mentioned
    • TopMusic AI Podcast
    • TopMusic Piano Podcast 049: Growing Creative Cultivation Studio with Shannon Saravia
    • Download your TopMusic Magazine here

    About Rachel Ehring Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
    • Visit her website at RachelEhring.com
    • Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
    • Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694
    • Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

    Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by
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    17 分
  • 049: Growing Creative Cultivation Studio with Shannon Saravia

    049: Growing Creative Cultivation Studio with Shannon Saravia
    2025/01/17
    In this episode, Shannon Saravia, founder of Creative Cultivation Studio, shares her inspiring journey of turning her passion for music into a thriving studio. Shannon shares how she transitioned from balancing piano lessons with a full-time office job to opening her dream studio in 2020. She dives into the challenges and triumphs of launching her unique parent-and-me classes while navigating the pandemic and setting up a new studio space in downtown La Verne in 2023. She discusses the challenges, triumphs, and key takeaways from her experience of creating a developmental and musical space for young learners and their families. Shannon’s story is packed with creativity, resilience, and a dedication to making music accessible to all. Join us as we explore her innovative approach to music education and how she’s building a community rooted in kindness and growth.
    • Sharon shared a brief overview of her background and her music teaching studio.
    • Her journey of launching a parent-and-me music program while building her commercial studio.
    • The challenges and excitement of opening a physical studio space.
    • How the parent-and-me classes was inspired by her experience as a new parent.
    • Developmental milestones for young children influenced the curriculum design.
    • How her program gained traction and grew through word-of-mouth recommendations.
    • Shannon shares tips for researching developmental milestones to guide program design.
    • She emphasizes using templates or frameworks to kickstart similar programs.
    • Why teamwork and collaboration were key to expanding programs and reaching diverse communities.
    • The importance of inclusivity, catering to different languages and learning styles.

    Links Mentioned
    • Shannon Saravia's Website: Creative Cultivation Studio
    • Creative Cultivation Studio Instagram Page
    • Creative Cultivation Studio Facebook Page
    • Download your TopMusic Magazine here.

    Today's Guest Shannon Saravia began her piano journey at the age of nine and taught her first lesson at 16, eventually transitioning to full-time teaching in 2019. Despite previously balancing piano lessons with a full-time office job, Shannon's passion for music never wavered. After relocating from Los Angeles to California's Central Valley, she seized the opportunity to follow her dream and established Creative Cultivation Studio in 2020. In 2023, the studio found its home in downtown La Verne, embodying a culture of kindness, creativity, and nurturing. Shannon and her team focus on personalized lessons tailored to each student's unique needs, fostering their growth into skilled and confident musicians. Through her studio, Shannon shares her love for music while inspiring creativity and knowledge in her students' lives. About Rachel Ehring Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle...
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    36 分
  • 048: 7 Things I’m Taking Into 2025

    048: 7 Things I’m Taking Into 2025
    2025/01/10
    Welcome to the first episode of 2025! I’m so excited to kick off the year with a solo episode where I’ll be sharing the 7 things I’m taking into 2025. As I reflected on 2024, I realized there were key habits, practices, and lessons that truly worked for me—both personally and professionally—and I want to carry that momentum forward into the new year. In this episode, I’ll be talking about everything, from simplifying systems and embracing technology, to connecting with other teachers, setting boundaries, and cultivating gratitude. I’ll also reveal my word of the year for 2025 and how it’s shaping my goals moving forward. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tips, or just a fresh perspective, I hope you’ll find something here to take into your own year ahead.
    • Rachel reflected on the highlights and lessons from 2024 to carry forward into the new year.
    • Embracing reading books on her phone while balancing physical books for family moments.
    • Simplifying and automating systems like payments and scheduling, while thoughtfully using AI tools like ChatGPT.
    • Staying consistent with weekly YouTube videos to improve video editing skills and share knowledge on collaborative piano.
    • Rebuilding piano technique with Hanon exercises and encouraging regular warm-up routines.
    • Connecting with other piano teachers through podcasts, social media, and in-person retreats for inspiration and support.
    • Setting boundaries by focusing on what I can control and communicating policies clearly.
    • Practicing gratitude daily while manifesting goals as if they’ve already been achieved.
    • Rachel's word of the year and her upcoming goals for 2025.

    Links Mentioned
    • Check out the new TopMusic AI Podcast here
    • My Music Staff
    • Fons
    • TopMusicPro Members' Lounge Facebook Group
    • TopMusicCo Facebook Group
    • TopCast Episode 396: TopMusic Steps to Success in 2025

    About Rachel Ehring Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
    • Visit her website at RachelEhring.com
    • Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
    • Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694
    • Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

    Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this
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    18 分
  • 047: A Review of Preschool Piano Methods with Abigail Proffitt

    047: A Review of Preschool Piano Methods with Abigail Proffitt
    2024/12/13
    Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by our guest, Abigail Proffitt, who specializes in preschool and neurodivergent students and teaches classical piano through a playful and repertoire-rich approach. In this episode, we'll dive deep into various preschool piano methods, featuring a detailed discussion on books like Piano Adventures, WunderKeys, Celebrate Piano, and many more. Abigail shares her invaluable insights, practical tips, and expert advice on creating an engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experience for young piano students. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting, this episode is packed with resources and inspiration to enhance your teaching journey.
    • Abigail shared her journey to becoming a piano teacher and her passion for teaching.
    • Her online business for music teachers, offering music theory resources and workshops.
    • Her experiences teaching preschoolers, both in groups and private lessons.
    • Emphasis on playful, sound-based learning, using games and improvisation.
    • Advice for and tips for teachers to better understand and teach preschoolers.
    • The importance of a strong rhythmic foundation for better sight-reading skills.
    • Discussion on specific curriculums such as Piano Adventures, WunderKeys, Celebrate Piano, Music for Little Mozarts, Music Play Curriculum, Piano Safari, etc.
    • Importance of a combination of different methods over relying on one.
    • Abigail shared some practical tips and encourages not focusing too heavily on hand shape for very young children.
    • She shared details about her Preschool Piano Crash Course.

    Method Books Mentioned
    • The Whole-Brain Child Book by Daniel Siegel and Tina Bryson
    • The Power of Play Book by David Elkind
    • How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen Book by by Joanna Faber
    • Faber Piano Adventures
    • WunderKeys
    • Celebrate Piano!
    • Music for Little Mozarts
    • Music Play
    • Theory Made Fun by Kevin Olson
    • Piano Safari
    • Piano Safari Friends

    Guest Links Mentioned
    • Whole Foundation Method Etsy Shop
    • Proffitt Piano Studio Instagram Page
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    38 分
  • 046: Music Moves with Krista Jadro and Hannah Mayo

    046: Music Moves with Krista Jadro and Hannah Mayo
    2024/12/06
    Music has the power to shape young minds and create lifelong connections. In this engaging episode, we're chatting with Krista Jadro and Hannah Mayo to dive into the transformative world of audiation and early childhood piano education. They discuss their unique journeys towards implementing Edwin Gordon’s Music Learning Theory, the impact of starting music education as early as age four, and practical tips on integrating singing, movement, and improvisation into piano lessons. Tune in to learn how they foster a deep understanding and love for music in their students from the very beginning.
    • Krista and Hannah shared a brief overview of their background and their music studio.
    • Importance of starting music education early, targeting ages 4-6.
    • Benefits of music education for neural development and building foundational musical skills.
    • Explanation of audiation and its role in music learning theory.
    • Details on the Music Moves for Piano curriculum by Marilyn Lowe.
    • Comparison between music learning and language acquisition.
    • Personal stories on how they both became interested in audiation and music learning theory.
    • Challenges and milestones in their professional development.
    • Impact of early music education on young learners.
    • Preferred techniques for teaching preschoolers, including the center finger approach.
    • Addressing common concerns such as singing and movement in lessons.
    • Integrating audiation into piano lessons in manageable ways.
    • Timing of introducing formal music reading, typically around age 11.
    • Balancing playing capability with reading skills.

    Links Mentioned
    • Music Learning Academy Website
    • Music Learning Academy YouTube Page
    • Mayo Piano Website
    • Music Moves for Piano Website
    • Introduction to Audiation-Based Piano Instruction and Music Moves for Piano Facebook Group
    • Keys to Music Learning Podcast
    • The Ways Children Learn Music Book

    Today’s Guest Hannah E. Mayo, a nationally certified teacher of music, is an independent piano teacher, specializing in guiding students through a lifetime of music making at the piano. She holds a B.M. and M.M. from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. After graduating, she continued to teach class piano as an adjunct faculty member at ULL until 2023. Hannah has been an independent piano teacher since 2006 and has directed the early childhood music and piano program at the REACH Preschool Institute since 2012. Hannah is a dedicated practitioner of Edwin Gordon’s Music Learning Theory. Krista Jadro is the owner of Music Learning Academy, an online resource center dedicated to supporting teachers using the Music Moves for Piano curriculum by Marilyn Lowe for audiation-based piano instruction. Through Music Learning Academy, Krista provides online courses, leads study groups, and presents and hosts webinars and workshops. Krista has a thriving piano studio at Brookline Music School, where she previously redesigned and directed the early childhood and group piano program. She earned degrees in Music Education from the University of Delaware (M.M, B.M.) Both Krista and
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    58 分
  • 045: Preschool Piano for Better Business with Amy Elmore

    045: Preschool Piano for Better Business with Amy Elmore
    2024/11/29
    In this episode, we sit down with Amy Elmore, a seasoned piano teacher who has transformed her studio with over 30 years of experience into a thriving multi-teacher business. Amy shares the inspiring journey behind starting preschool piano classes, an idea sparked by her husband, and how these classes have significantly impacted her studio's growth. Join us as Amy delves into the ART framework she developed for teaching young children, offers practical advice on managing classes, and emphasizes the importance of community among piano teachers. Whether you're looking to enhance your teaching strategies or expand your studio's offerings, Amy's insights are invaluable. Tune in to discover how preschool piano can elevate your business!
    • Amy shared a brief overview of her background and her teaching business.
    • She talks about her multi-teacher studio and the range of lessons they offer.
    • She shared how preschool piano classes started in her studio.
    • Rachel shares her inspiration from Amy to start piano classes for preschoolers.
    • The benefits and impact of preschool piano on students and business.
    • Amy introduces the ART framework for teaching preschool piano (Aural, Rhythm, Theory, and Technique).
    • Discussion on practical aspects such as class size, equipment needed, and duration of classes.
    • Amy answers rapid-fire questions on space requirements, materials, class size, pricing, and more.
    • Tips on managing behavioral challenges in preschool piano classes.
    • The importance of ignoring, redirecting, and keeping the class moving.
    • The value of building a network of teacher friends.
    • Information about Amy’s Piano Teacher Happy Hour, Preschool Group Piano Blueprint course, and coaching sessions.

    Links Mentioned
    • Amy Elmore's Website
    • Preschool Group Piano Blueprint
    • Amy's Instagram Page: @amy_elmore_piano
    • Keys to Praise Studio Instagram Page: @keys_to_praise_studio
    • Download your latest TopMusic Magazine here.

    Today’s Guest Amy Elmore is a seasoned piano teacher with over 30 years of experience. She owns a lively multi-teacher studio in Southern California that welcomes students as young as 3 1/2 to those about to graduate high school. Amy didn't originally set out to be a piano teacher; she “fell into” the profession in high school when her teacher asked if she would take on some students of her own. In a full-circle moment, after teaching solo for many years, Amy hired one of her high school students and started down the path of becoming a multi-teacher studio. Over the last several years, Amy has developed a keen interest in the business aspects of running a studio. Her academic background is as unique as her career path, holding a Bachelor's Degree in Home Economics/Foods in Business and a Master's Degree in Marriage Family Therapy. This unexpected combination enriches her approach to teaching and business, bringing a fresh and multifaceted perspective to the world of music Education. Recognizing the potential to expand her impact beyond the studio, through coaching and her Preschool Group Piano Blueprint course, Amy has also ventured into helping other piano teachers scale their businesses. Beyond her professional life, Amy and her husband Jim have two adult sons and a brand-new daughter-in-law. She...
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    49 分
  • 044: Early Child Brain Development with Dr. Jane Bader

    044: Early Child Brain Development with Dr. Jane Bader
    2024/11/22

    Music is more than just sound — it’s the foundation of how our brains connect, grow, and thrive. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jane Bader, DMA, whose remarkable journey from marine biology and medical labs to award-winning composer and educator has led her to uncover the transformative power of music in early childhood development. Drawing from her book, Music for the Developing Brain, Dr. Bader shares how music shapes young minds, strengthens cognitive abilities, and lays a foundation that lasts a lifetime. Join us as we explore the science behind music’s profound impact on early brain development, how to actively engage children in music, and why these skills create a foundation that benefits individuals throughout their entire lives. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or music enthusiast, this conversation will leave you inspired to make music an integral part of life’s earliest moments.

    • Dr. Bader shared her unique career background, starting with 10 years of piano study, a computer programming job, and two diverse careers - medical laboratory science and music education.
    • How she transitioned to music education after becoming a parent for more flexibility.
    • Her research in sequencing elementary piano music, which emphasized teaching sound before sight, which aligns with her observations and research.
    • Her research interest in neuroscience and music education.
    • Key discoveries about music and brain development.
    • Importance of teaching sound before sight, comparing it to how children learn spoken language before reading.
    • Discussion about her book, Music for the Developing Brain.
    • Rachels share about her experience with college students without inner pulse.
    • Importance of establishing an early foundation in music during preschool or toddler years.
    • Why it's important to adjust our expectations for young learners.
    • Scientific insights on music’s role in development.
    • Active vs. passive music listening.
    • Recommendations and practical applications for older beginners.

    Links Mentioned
    • Dr. Jane Bader's Website
    • Dr. Jane Bader's LinkedIn Page
    • Dr. Jane Bader's Book: Music for the Developing Brain: A Simple, At-Home Program
    • Dr. Jane Bader's Email: Jane@DrJaneJBader.com

    Special Offer for Podcast Listeners
    • Dr. Jane Bader is giving away a free copy of her e-book. Listeners can send her a direct email for the free e-book at Jane@DrJaneJBader.com.

    Today’s Guest



    Dr. Jane J. Bader, DMA, didn’t set out to be a music teacher. In her first career, she performed research in marine biology, conducted routine testing in a blood bank in Alaska, and orchestrated the ins and outs of a medical laboratory thanks to a Bachelor of Science in cell biology and a certificate in medical technology. After becoming an award-winning composer, she earned a Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts in piano pedagogy and started teaching at a local university. She wrote Music for the Developing Brain to help parents everywhere share music with their children from the very beginning.

    About Rachel Ehring

    Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at...
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    34 分
  • 043: Making Practice Fun with Leslie Thackeray

    043: Making Practice Fun with Leslie Thackeray
    2024/11/15

    Practice is the bridge between goals and accomplishments. In this episode, we're having a chat with Leslie Thackeray, a dedicated Suzuki violin teacher and the creative force behind The Practice Shoppe. Leslie shares her journey from receiving her first violin at age four to becoming a pioneering music educator known for her innovative teaching methods. They dive into practical tips for making practice fun and enjoyable, insights on parental involvement, and the story behind Leslie's unique products designed to aid music practice. Tune in to discover how Leslie combines her love for violin, teaching, and creativity to inspire young musicians.

    • Leslie describes how she started The Practice Shoppe.
    • She talks about managing a business with physical products from home.
    • How she uses different methods incorporates fun games to motivate practice.
    • Tools and tips for effective practice.
    • Importance of parental support in organizing and encouraging practice.
    • Strategies for parents who aren’t musicians to still effectively guide their children.
    • Leslie shares how interactive and visual learning aids are used to reinforce musical concepts and improve practice habits.
    • She encourages listeners to share ideas for new products they would like to see.

    Links Mentioned
    • The Practice Shoppe Website
    • The Practice Shoppe Instagram Page
    • The Practice Shoppe Facebook Page
    • TopCast 391: Meet Brian Shepard, New CEO of MTNA

    Today’s Guest



    At the age of four, Leslie Thackeray's musical journey began when she received her first violin as a birthday gift. She pursued her passion for music and obtained a BA in Music from the University of Utah. In 2000, she started her teaching career, combining her love for the violin with her enthusiasm for education. Leslie has been an active member of the Suzuki community and is a past president of the Suzuki Association of Utah. In addition, she owns The Practice Shoppe, which allows her to connect her love of music with her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Leslie's life is a harmonious blend of family, music, and education.

    About Rachel Ehring

    Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

    • Visit her website at https://rachelehring.com/
    • Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
    • Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

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    30 分