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Nicola Cantan
Practical and proven tips, ideas and advice for private music teachers. Listen in to improve your instrumental or vocal music studio business and find that oh-so-elusive feeling of balance in your life. Welcome to The Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast! This is the show for you if you’re an instrumental or vocal music teacher that wants friendly, creative and accessible advice. I’m your host Nicola Cantan. My membership site, Vibrant Music Teaching, helps teachers all over the world to include more games and creativity in their lessons, so that their students giggle their way through music theory and make faster progress. I also run a popular blog, Colourful Keys, where we write about creative ideas and teaching strategies and an interview show, Teaching Studio Stories. Every Monday I provide bite-sized bursts of inspiration and ideas for instrumental and vocal music teachers. The episodes are usually between 10 and 20 minutes – the perfect length of time to put away some of the music books scattered all over your studio and hide the rest of them in the piano bench. Listen to a few episodes and hit the subscribe button. When you come across an episode you love, make sure to tell your teacher-friends they can get it for free in any audio app that supports podcasts. https://vibrantmusicteaching.com https://colourfulkeys.ie https://instagram.com/colourfulkeys https://www.facebook.com/groups/vibrantmusicstudioteachers
Total 329 episodes
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When a student wants to practice in PRIVATE

When a student wants to practice in PRIVATE

This week, Nicola dives into a question from Michelle about helping a tween piano student overcome their resistance to practicing strategies in lessons. This student, who prefers working independently at home, is now facing challenges at the early intermediate level. Nicola explores the underlying issues, like vulnerability and fear of mistakes, and shares playful, gentle approaches to ease the transition.Learn how to use games, role-reversal, and creative strategies to teach practice techniques without adding pressure or embarrassment. Tune in to gain fresh insights into supporting students through emotional challenges in lessons—and fostering a love for learning.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
10:5325/11/2024
Making the Switch to a Practice App

Making the Switch to a Practice App

You're Listening to the Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast with Nicola CantanDiscover step-by-step strategies to implement meaningful changes in your music studio, like transitioning to a practice app. Nicola offers practical advice on handling resistance to change, setting up systems, and engaging students and parents effectively. Whether you're streamlining your studio's organization or enhancing student practice, this episode provides actionable tips to ensure smooth transitions and lasting improvements. Follow along for insights, tools, and encouragement to elevate your teaching journey!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
17:1618/11/2024
What about the GOOD students?

What about the GOOD students?

In this episode of the Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast, Nicola Cantan discusses a unique perspective on what she calls “the good ones” – those students who are quiet, diligent, and well-behaved. Nicola explores how these "good" students often fly under the radar and might not get the same level of attention or adjustments to their learning approach that more demanding students do. Through her own childhood stories and experiences with the Colorful Keys team, she encourages music teachers to reflect on whether these students could benefit from more movement, new learning strategies, or simply more of the teacher’s active focus.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
12:4911/11/2024
What I've learned from watching almost 60 music lessons this week

What I've learned from watching almost 60 music lessons this week

Join host Nicola Cantan in this episode of The Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast as she shares insights from watching nearly 60 video clips submitted by passionate music teachers around the world. Discover valuable lessons from different teaching styles, creative strategies, and unique approaches that can help inspire your own music teaching journey. Nicola discusses the power of recording lessons for growth, the joy of watching dedicated teachers in action, and the importance of supporting one another in this field. Plus, get a sneak peek into the new "Music Lesson Clips" YouTube channel, launching soon, where you can witness these incredible teaching moments firsthand.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
11:5904/11/2024
Music Practice Mottos

Music Practice Mottos

Welcome to the Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast! I'm Nicola Cantan, your host, and today we’re diving into the world of music practice mottos. Whether you're out for a walk, cleaning up, or simply relaxing, thanks for letting me join you for a few moments. Today, we're talking about those words of wisdom that can guide music practice, support our students, and spark progress, whether it's a catchy rhyme or a saying that helps students tackle perfectionism or keep a steady beat. I’ll be sharing some mottos and would love to hear any you use in your teaching!And if you want to contribute or have questions, head over to vibrantmusicteaching.com/question. Stay tuned to be inspired with mottos that can make a difference in the way students approach practice. Plus, if you're interested in joining the best community of music teachers online, check out vibrantmusicteaching.com for resources, games, and support every month. Let’s get started!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
22:5428/10/2024
Starting a homeschool music program

Starting a homeschool music program

In this episode of the Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast, host Nicola Cantan dives into programs for young beginners, offering valuable advice for structuring music lessons, especially for homeschool groups. Nicola also introduces the Epic Clip Contest, where teachers can win a $1,000 Visa gift card by submitting a short video of their teaching. With practical tips on using existing curricula, like Mini Musicians, and ideas for making lessons engaging and effective for mixed-age groups, this episode is packed with inspiration for music teachers. Don’t forget to submit your clips before the October 31st deadline!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
14:0821/10/2024
Making things EASY for a challenging student

Making things EASY for a challenging student

In this episode of the Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast, host Nicola Cantan answers a listener's question about handling a tricky piano student who rushes through pieces and struggles with learning new ones. Nicola shares creative strategies for making lessons more engaging, using improvisation, games, and thoughtful planning to help students build skills without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're facing similar challenges or just looking to refresh your teaching approach, Nicola offers practical advice to inspire your next lesson. Submit your own teaching questions at vibrantmusicteaching.com!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
12:1114/10/2024
Lessons after breaks and studio names

Lessons after breaks and studio names

Welcome to the Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast with Nicola Cantan! In this episode, we dive into two important topics: easing students back into lessons after a break and choosing the perfect name for your piano studio. Nicola shares tips on helping students transition smoothly after time off and offers advice for naming your music studio, whether you're staying local or planning to expand. Tune in for practical insights and fun ideas to keep your teaching vibrant!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
13:1407/10/2024
Paperless or paper planning and personal practice

Paperless or paper planning and personal practice

The Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast, hosted by Nicola Cantan, tackles key challenges for music teachers. In this episode, Nicola explores two important questions: navigating printed versus digital lesson assignments for traveling teachers and finding time to practice as a busy teacher. Nicola offers practical advice for using hybrid assignment systems and balancing teaching with personal practice. She also shares details about the EPIC Clip Contest, encouraging teachers to submit videos of their lessons for a chance to win $1,000. Tune in for insights and tips to enhance your teaching journey!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
15:0230/09/2024
Starts and stops and starting studios

Starts and stops and starting studios

The Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast, hosted by Nicola Canton, offers proven, practical tips and strategies for music teachers. In this episode, Nicola answers listener questions about helping students overcome start-and-stop habits during playing and advice for starting a new music studio. She also shares exciting updates, including a new Vivid Practice Podcast, a practice survey, and details about an upcoming teacher retreat in Ireland. Nicola encourages teachers to reflect on their teaching methods, marketing strategies, and how to grow their studios, offering insightful advice for both new and experienced educators.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
12:5023/09/2024
Am I the right kind of teacher for my different students

Am I the right kind of teacher for my different students

The Vibrant Music Teaching Podcast, hosted by Nicola Canton, explores how music teachers can adapt their teaching styles to fit different students and instruments. In this episode, Nicola responds to a question from Emily, a teacher of both piano and brass instruments, about whether her varied teaching approaches for each instrument are acceptable. Nicola delves into the idea of aligning expectations across instruments, considering factors like performance experience and student dynamics. Teachers are encouraged to reflect on their own methods and consciously shape their teaching to meet both their goals and their students' needs.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
10:4316/09/2024
How do I organise lessons at students' homes?

How do I organise lessons at students' homes?

In this podcast episode, the host shares insights and practical advice for music teachers who conduct lessons at students' homes. They discuss the importance of charging a travel fee to account for time spent commuting, and offer tips on organizing materials efficiently using a folder system. The host also explores strategies for transitioning from home visits to studio-based lessons, including adjusting fees to encourage students to come to a dedicated teaching space. Whether you're a seasoned traveling teacher or considering opening your own studio, this episode provides valuable guidance on managing logistics and fees effectively.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
13:3709/09/2024
Public speaking, marketing and preschool students

Public speaking, marketing and preschool students

Join Nicola Canton as she delves into building confidence in public speaking and offers insights into teaching young students effectively. This episode covers how to overcome the fear of speaking, the importance of practice, and the challenges of teaching preschoolers, with real questions from teachers like you. Tune in for practical tips and thoughtful discussions that can transform your teaching approach and boost your confidence. Don't forget to submit your own questions at vibrantmusicteaching.com/question to be featured in future episodes! 🎧Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
19:0602/09/2024
Questions, podcasts and going from zero to studio

Questions, podcasts and going from zero to studio

Join Nicola as she shares new resources, exciting announcements, and honest reflections on the teaching profession. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone. This week, discover new resources for piano teachers, learn about Nicola's upcoming podcast, Vivid Practice, and hear about her latest book, Zero to Studio. Tune in and elevate your teaching today!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
22:2726/08/2024
Conference lowdown and general catchup

Conference lowdown and general catchup

Join me for a general catchup after my summer of conferences and some thoughts for upcoming plans.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
24:4919/08/2024
Creative Repurposing and Recyling with Leila Viss

Creative Repurposing and Recyling with Leila Viss

I'm delighted to be joined by Leila Viss today to talk about reusing and recycling objects for games in your studio.Leila Viss generates imaginative resources for her piano studio and website. She holds Composiums, which inspire pianists to nurture their creative voice through composition and arranging. Viss is known for her innovative pedagogy and engaging presentations and is Colorado's 2024 MTNA Foundation Fellow.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
25:3312/08/2024
Practice and Ownership with Nicole Douglas

Practice and Ownership with Nicole Douglas

Today we're joined by Nicole Douglas for a fascinating discussion about practice, motivation and ownership.Nicole Douglas teaches piano near Chicago, Illinois. She previously worked in business and marketing research, and now enjoys getting to combine her love for both by consulting for music ed tech companies. Nicole is passionate about teaching beginners, studying injury-preventive technique, and learning about the process of learning.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
40:2505/08/2024
Uncommon Sense Truths with Christina Whitlock

Uncommon Sense Truths with Christina Whitlock

Today's guest is Christina Whitlock. We're going to be chatting about some fun hidden truths about the teaching life. Christina Whitlock, MM, NCTM, fancies herself a friend and philosopher to the piano teaching profession. Connecting primarily with audiences through the Beyond Measure Podcast, she enjoys supporting the piano teaching community in many ways. Check out ChristinaWhitlock.com for more details on her varied offerings.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
29:1729/07/2024
Crafting compositions with Jenny Walker

Crafting compositions with Jenny Walker

Jenny Walker is on the show today to share about her composing process.Born in Southampton, I now live in Lincolnshire where I have a successful teaching practice. I compose piano music and write songs and arrangements for my ladies; singing group. I play most genres; folk, jazz, big band key parts, popular music and classical.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
18:3722/07/2024
Developing a violin method with Crystal Boyak

Developing a violin method with Crystal Boyak

Crystal Boyack is coming on the podcast today. We're discussing her creative method for violin students and what went into its development.Crystal Boyack is a leader in early childhood violin pedagogy and the best selling author of Wee Violin: Music for Young Violinists Preparatory to Twinkle.She currently teaches at the University of New Mexico’s String Lab School and runs a private studio teaching Suzuki Violin and Music Together in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.She loves spending her time gardening, doing yoga, and adventuring with her husband and four young children.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
22:1615/07/2024
Preparing Piano Teens for the Next Level with Kate Boyd

Preparing Piano Teens for the Next Level with Kate Boyd

Kate Boyd is on the show today and we're chatting about preparing teens to progress to music majors.Kate Boyd is the head of the piano area at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana. She regularly performs throughout the US and abroad as a soloist and chamber musician. She has a YouTube channel called “The Piano Prof” where she shares instructional piano videos geared towards advanced piano students and their teachers.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
38:1508/07/2024
Community, Not Competition with Paul Myatt

Community, Not Competition with Paul Myatt

Paul Myatt is joining me today to discuss the value of community and collaboration in the teaching world.Paul Myatt is a passionate piano teacher, author, composer, and workshop presenter. Paul co-founded the 30-year-old Forte Music School network with over 8,000 UK, USA, Canada, Australia and NZ students. Through Forte and Piano Teaching Success, Paul helps piano teachers engage and motivate their students by coaching them to use the Whole Body Learning approach, teaching success guides and backing tracks so they can accelerate their teaching success and earn more.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
21:0601/07/2024
Creative movement and ensemble recitals with Juliet Robinson

Creative movement and ensemble recitals with Juliet Robinson

Juliet Robinson is on the podcast today and we're chatting about bringing movement into every lesson and including ensembles in recitals.Trained as a classroom music specialist having gained a 1st Class Honours degree from Trinity College of music and a PGCE at Kingston Polytechnic. Spent over 30 years then teaching in the Midhurst area in the middle of the South Downs, first as an upper secondary teacher, then as an Intermediate school teacher gaining AST (Advanced Skills Teacher) status which gave me the opportunity to support teachers in primary schools. I then worked as a primary music specialist for 10 years working in several schools. On my retirement I then started up a private music business from home, teaching children to be musicians through the piano. I also run two choirs and am a member of two other choirs as well as playing in a recorder group and a steel band.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
23:5524/06/2024
Presenting Tips with Amy Chaplin

Presenting Tips with Amy Chaplin

Amy Chaplin joins us on the show today to talk about conferences, proposals and presentations.Amy Chaplin is a piano teacher, speaker, blogger, and podcaster. She loves supporting teachers on all things related to teaching, organization, productivity, and life on the Piano Pantry blog and podcast and through her digital organization coaching series and retreat. Her independent piano studio is located in Bluffton, Indiana.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
31:2617/06/2024
A week in the life

A week in the life

To celebrate the 300 episode milestone, I'm taking you on a journey through a week in my life. Hope you enjoy this different style of episode!Link to the August challenge: https://vibrantmusicteaching.com/8TF
46:0910/06/2024
Questions for all teachers to ponder

Questions for all teachers to ponder

Today I'm sharing some intriguing questions to get your brain juices flowing. Hope you enjoy these doodles for your noodle!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
16:5403/06/2024
How to Get The Most Out of Piano Teaching Conferences

How to Get The Most Out of Piano Teaching Conferences

If you're going to be attending a workshop, conference or other training event soon, make sure you listen to these tips! They could save you time, money and stress.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
24:4927/05/2024
My experience with MTB exams

My experience with MTB exams

A reflection on my experience with the Music Teachers Board exams and who they suit best.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
32:2520/05/2024
Answers for parents who question games in piano lessons

Answers for parents who question games in piano lessons

Do parents ever ask you WHY you're playing games in your piano lessons? I've got the answers!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
12:3013/05/2024
Fun ways to prep for recital

Fun ways to prep for recital

How do we make the recital preparation process feel fun? That's the question we're unpacking today.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
30:5806/05/2024
Alternatives for Piano Recitals

Alternatives for Piano Recitals

Are you rethinking piano rectials? Here are a few alternatives you might like to try.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
13:4629/04/2024
My top 7 takeaways from MTNA 2024

My top 7 takeaways from MTNA 2024

Sharing a few takeaways from the latest MTNA conference in Atlanta.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
30:4422/04/2024
What to say at the start of your recital

What to say at the start of your recital

Public speaking makes many people nervous and it's the last thing you want to be worrying about when you're managing all the logistics of a recital. Tune in to hear my simple formula for your welcome speech at your next student concert.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
27:1315/04/2024
How to stay CALM during recital season

How to stay CALM during recital season

Many of us are about to organise and host recitals. Let's take a moment together to breathe and keep it calm this time around.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
25:5808/04/2024
Behind-the-Scenes at Our Silent Film Piano Festival

Behind-the-Scenes at Our Silent Film Piano Festival

This is a bumper episode of the show where I'm sharing everything that went into our Silent Film Piano Festival, and what I might do differently in future.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
59:4801/04/2024
If This Were EASY What Would That Look Like?

If This Were EASY What Would That Look Like?

This is the most important question I've been asking myself lately. What tools can we use to make it feel easy for the student, so that they feel confident, competent and motivated.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
27:5025/03/2024
Music Neutrality in Music lessons

Music Neutrality in Music lessons

Do you treat all genres equally in your studio? Do your students know how you feel about the music THEY like?Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
20:4518/03/2024
Alternatives to Zoom for Online Lessons

Alternatives to Zoom for Online Lessons

If you don't want to use Zoom for your online lessons, what can you use instead? Here are a few ideas with pros and cons.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
13:4411/03/2024
Teaching parents habit stacking for practice

Teaching parents habit stacking for practice

Learn how habit stacking can help your beginner students to become steady practisers.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
14:3804/03/2024
6 Things to Teach Adult Music Students About Home Practice

6 Things to Teach Adult Music Students About Home Practice

What do adult students need to know about practice? Here are 6 things I think are essential for them to learn.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
11:5226/02/2024
13 (Random) Tips for Teachers

13 (Random) Tips for Teachers

I've got 13 random pieces of advice for music teachers today. One of these could make your week!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
34:3519/02/2024
Being Your Own Kind Teacher

Being Your Own Kind Teacher

If you were your own teacher...would you approve of how you teach yourself? Confused? Listen in to find out what I'm on about.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
10:5812/02/2024
Practice for One Hand Only

Practice for One Hand Only

What do you do when your student injures an arm/wrist/hand? We've got the answers for you today!Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
21:5905/02/2024
Mnemonics and Parent Education

Mnemonics and Parent Education

Mnemonics can be a contentious issue. Here's how I handle it when parents use mnemonics at home.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
13:1029/01/2024
Practice Notes Ideas and Tips

Practice Notes Ideas and Tips

Practice notes are one of the main tools we have to communicate with students in between lessons. So how can you make them better?Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
27:4322/01/2024
Top Music Practice Mistakes to Avoid

Top Music Practice Mistakes to Avoid

What are the most common practice mistakes students make? And how can we help them avoid those mistakes?Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
19:5415/01/2024
How to Improve Practice Habits in Your Studio

How to Improve Practice Habits in Your Studio

Do the practice habits in your studio need a refresh button? I've got some tips to help.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
19:4808/01/2024
Finding work-life balance

Finding work-life balance

Do you feel like you have a good balance in your life? Let's talk about strategies to improve it in this episode.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
25:2111/12/2023
Piano Teaching Activities for When You Have 3-5 Minutes to Spare

Piano Teaching Activities for When You Have 3-5 Minutes to Spare

We often suffer from a lack of time in lessons...but what about when we have a few minutes left in a lesson? What can we do that is beneficial, but also wraps up the lesson in a nice way?Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
25:1904/12/2023
Just. Do. One. Thing.

Just. Do. One. Thing.

Let's solve that overwhelm. Learn about JDOT in this episode and what it can do for your mental space.Find out more about membership at vibrantmusicteaching.com.
10:5327/11/2023