Keyboard Technique: Deep Dive with Scarlette Kerr and Celeste Watson: Part 3

In this latest episode of Keys to Music Learning, Hannah Mayo and I dive into the final part of a fascinating discussion on piano pedagogy with piano educators, Scarlette Kerr and Celeste Watson. Together, they explore the importance of technique and audiation, reflecting on their experiences with Marilyn Lowe and her impactful Music Moves for Piano method.

A Conversation with Marilyn Lowe Scarlette and Celeste share heartwarming stories about their encounters with Marilyn Lowe, the creator of Music Moves for Piano. One key takeaway is Marilyn's emphasis on the importance of developing a strong technical foundation from a young age. Marilyn’s approach resonated deeply with both teachers, as she consistently married audiation with biomechanics to help students connect physically and mentally to their music-making.

Audiation: The Key to Mastery Scarlette reflects on a pivotal moment when Marilyn asked her, "Have you tried audiating it?" Initially, she didn’t fully grasp the meaning of audiation, but over time, she realized its significance. This approach transforms how students internalize music, making the learning process more organic. The connection between hearing music in one’s mind and executing it physically on the keyboard is a game-changer, allowing students to progress more rapidly and meaningfully.

The Power of Group Musicianship Both Scarlette and Celeste discuss the tremendous benefits of integrating group musicianship classes, including choir, into their piano curriculum. To address the challenge of limited lesson time, they implemented a twice-a-week lesson structure. Students attend private lessons once a week and join group musicianship and choir sessions on Fridays. This combination has yielded remarkable results.

The group setting offers students opportunities to develop their aural skills, engage with peers, and gain experience in choir performance, all of which reinforce their individual piano training. Celeste emphasizes that this structure attracts students who are dedicated to their musical growth, leading to a culture of mutual support and faster progress. The social bonds formed in the choir and musicianship classes also contribute to a positive, community-oriented studio environment.

Maximizing Lesson Time An essential benefit of this dual lesson structure is the ability to focus on advanced repertoire, technique development, and individualized instruction during private lessons. By handling the more general musicianship skills in group classes, Scarlette and Celeste can dedicate private lessons to honing students’ technical abilities and keyboard skills, improvising, and tackling more complex piano pieces.

Lifelong Learning and Teaching Philosophy Both educators express deep admiration for Marilyn Lowe's lifelong dedication to learning and teaching. Even as a highly respected authority, Marilyn continuously sought out new knowledge, embodying the importance of a growth-mindset. Scarlette and Celeste carry this philosophy into their own teaching to meet the needs of their students.

Scarlette and Celeste’s collaboration and their adoption of the Music Moves for Piano method showcase how piano pedagogy can be deeply enriched by integrating audiation, group musicianship, and a holistic approach to technique through the Barbara Lister-Sink method.

LINKS

Scarlette's Webinars
The Embodiment of Rhythmic Audiation at the Piano
Technique and Young Beginners : Development of motor skills and application to Keyboard Games
The Technique Checklist: Sequencing Tips to Monitor and Guide Student Technical Development

Support Keys to Music Learning through the Keys to Music Learning Community!

Join us on Facebook!
Introduction to Audiation-based Piano Instruction and Music Moves for Piano

Want to dive into audiation-based piano instruction? Check out Music Moves for Piano by Marilyn Lowe.