Notes from “Tips on Preparing Students for a Successful CM Evaluation”

What materials are available for Ear Training?

• Ling Ling’s Ear Training books
• Theta Music Trainer: https://trainer.thetamusic.com/
• MTAC Ear Training (can be ordered from MTAC store)
• Julie Johnson’s Ear Training books

How do I motivate students to sign up for CM?

• Let parents talk to each other (i.e. after recital events or studio gatherings)
• Explain the program at your student recitals (i.e. hand out CM certificate at awards ceremony at Spring Recital)
• Remember that CM is not appropriate for all students

What is available for composing?

• Musecore software program
• Noteflight software program

How do I improve students’ sight reading?

• Sight Reading & Rhythm Everyday, by Helen Marlais
• Musictheory.net
• Flashnotederby.com (downloadable app)
• Tenuto
• Quizlet
• Rhythmswing
• Notability
• pianomarvel.com – students will need electric keyboard and can use 30 days for free
  • students will need electric keyboard
  • students have free access for 30 days
  • if connected to teacher’s account, teacher can monitor progress
  • helps students learn by highlighting mistakes in red
  • ear training available as well

When is it appropriate for 60 minute lessons?

• Some teachers require 60 minute lessons for CM Level 6 and above
• Put requirement in studio policy

How is theory covered during lesson?

• Charge extra for CM theory preparation
• Have parents buy answer book to save on lesson time
• Assign theory homework to be done at home
• Order practice tests and test often
• Relate concepts to students’ repertoire
• While technique is being played, circle intervals/chords in repertoire for student to identify
• Avoid explaining material; allow students to learn to read and follow directions instead
• Use back of theory book for more examples
• Ask student to teach it back to you
• Use a white board to practice any difficulties
• Use “Just the Facts II” for a balanced approach
• Julie Johnson’s Keyboard Theory workbooks as students’ homework
• Peggy O’Dell Theory workbook has only practice assignments; explanation is left to the teacher

How do I prepare students to score higher ratings?

• Evaluators value expression, dynamics in repertoire as well as technique
• Have students dress up, look presentable
• Set your student up for a stress-free evaluation (i.e. stack the books, number measures, tab pages, etc.)
• Focus on details like rubato, dynamics, phrase shapes, etc.
• Train students to expect the piano to feel and sound different; adjust accordingly
• Have a mock evaluation
• Well-prepared technique sets the tone for the evaluation

Tips on Repertoire Choices

• Let the student choose repertoire
• Teachers need to educate students on good repertoire
• Enroll students in lower level than current repertoire
• Use repertoire that is less known, less popular

How do I help students practice effectively?

• Be very specific with notes (i.e. play 5 times without mistakes)
• Have students write down assignment and check off practice items
• Teach them to practice; don’t teach them the piece
• Have parents help students practice at home until students reach age 11-12
• Facetime with students during the week if they need help
• Older kids should mark their own music
• Have students record their practice
• Make practicing efficient (tell them what to do if they have 5, 10, or 30 minutes to practice)
• Use metronome
• Copy the difficult passages of their pieces and put it on single page; have them practice using this page
• Write down how much time they should spend on each piece
• Educate parents during interview about expectations
• Train students to do the best they can, not halfway
• Best students have accountability
• Make the commitment, not just for fun
• Treat lessons like school – practice and lessons should not be missed
• Help students understand delayed gratification