General Tips
The 4DX Practice Framework (The Four Disciplines of Execution)
For today’s video, I was inspired by reading (as is often the case). I’ve been re-reading Cal Newport’s Deep Work, in which he mentions the “4DX practice framework”. This is from a book called the Four Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney and Sean Covey. So why is this important to you, as a piano…
Read MoreSelf-Discipline is One of the Best Skills You Can Have (And How Practicing Piano Helps You Get It)
I’ve been in the midst of some heady books this summer, and I’ve been thinking about everything from boredom, genetic engineering and free time to piano practice and self-discipline. (In case you’re a book nerd as well, I’ve been absolutely devouring everything Yuval Harari has written, in addition to “Hacking Darwin”, “Abundance: The Future is…
Read MoreWhy the morning is the best time to practice piano
In today’s quick video, I just wanted to share a simple but powerful idea as to why the morning is the perfect time to practice piano – and it might not be what you think! Enjoy, -Allysia
Read MoreI’m Studying for my RCM Grade 10 Again!
Hey friends! Those of you who’ve been following me for a while know that I took my RCM Grade 10 exam a while back, and got a pretty brutal mark. I’m finally getting back into the swing of things and I’m aiming to re-do the exam in January 2020 – about half a year from…
Read MoreHow to Find a (Good) Piano Teacher
Hey friends! In today’s conversational video, I share with you some ideas on how to find a piano teacher. I’ve taught at music schools and independently, and I’ve taught in big cities and small towns, so – in theory – I have a good perspective on this topic. Hope you find it helpful, and I’ll…
Read MoreHow to Ace your RCM History Exams
Today’s episode of PianoTV is all about how to ace your RCM history exams. I’ve personally aced them, so I’ll walk you through my study process. I’m not a piano whiz. I used to do well in competitions as a child, but my playing marks have generally been average, and I’ve needed to clock a…
Read MoreAm I Too Old to Learn Piano?
I get a decent amount of emails from hopeful piano students (and some not-so-hopeful). One question that I’m asked again and again is, “Am I too old to learn piano?” Or, if they’re not specifically asking me if I think they’re too old, they express concern about their advancing age getting in the way of…
Read MoreThe Complete Guide to Dynamics on the Piano
In today’s video we’re going to address the topic of dynamics on the piano. We’ll talk about what dynamics are, the differences in dynamics across musical eras, and some tips on how to play dynamics more effectively. As far as I know there isn’t a “do-this-and-achieve-awesome-dynamics” lesson out there – if there is, please let…
Read MoreInstagram Q&A! Your Questions on Music and Life, Answered
Hi friends, Today’s video is an Instagram Q&A. I was home with Jane for a week while Mike was off on a work trip, so we decided to do a spur-of-the-moment type video. Follow me on Instagram if you want to catch the next one, or just follow my stories! Take care, Allysia
Read MorePractice Piano With Me: Zapping My Brain to learn Marching Season
Hey friends, In today’s “practice piano with me” session I’m trying something a little different. I put on Halo Sport headphones to zap my brain and (hopefully) help me re-learn this piece faster and easier. Check out the video for my experiences, and be sure to check out the previous comparison video where I learned…
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