Can We Really Control Piano Practice? Reflections from My Studio WorkshopIn this episode of The Scrappy Piano Teacher, I share reflections from the OhioMTA state conference and walk you through a practice workshop I held in my studio. Together we will think about how practice strategies, student engagement, and teaching philosophy connect to real life for our students.We all know piano practice is one of the hardest parts of piano teaching. In this episode you will hear how I approached practice routines with my students, how I explained the difference between practicing playing and performing, and why creating a practice workshop can help students build confidence. This is encouragement for teachers who want practical piano practice tips that actually make sense in the lesson.Here are some of the takeaways from this episode ● Piano practice is the number one challenge for many teachers ● Encouragement and perspective matter more than guilt ● Leadership in piano teaching means guiding students in how to practice ● A practice workshop can support both students and parents ● Self care strategies for teachers help prevent burnout and keep us strong for our studentsThis episode is for any teacher looking for ways to help students build realistic practice habits at home. It is about teaching students what to practice, how to practice ,and how to connect piano practicing to their daily lives.For more resources visit scrappypianoteacher.com and subscribe for access to my full practice workshop lesson plan, and check out the abacus blog post mentioned at composecreate.com/get-rid-of-mindless-practice/
When makeup lessons or online lessons simply are not realistic, asynchronous lessons can keep your students learning and give you peace of mind.As teachers, we all know that life happens. Snow days, sick days, sports schedules, or just plain burnout. In this episode of The Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast I am talking about one of my favorite backup tools: asynchronous lessons.I share how I first stumbled into them, why my students actually preferred them over online lessons, and the two main ways I use them in my studio today. You will also hear my step by step process for creating simple 15 minute lessons that keep students practicing and engaged without overwhelming families or you.And because it has been a tough week in the world, I close with a reminder of just how important our role is as music teachers. We are not just teaching scales and pieces. We are giving students a voice, modeling empathy, and creating a safe joyful space that they will carry with them for years.If you have been curious about asynchronous lessons or just need a little encouragement for the road, this one is for you.Try out MyMusicStaff Studio Softward for 60 days FREE at mymusicstaff.com/scrappypianoteacher
Makeup lessons are one of the most debated topics in piano teaching. In this episode of The Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast, I share how I approach teaching policies and studio management and why clear boundaries around makeup lessons and flex weeks have helped me protect both my time and my students’ progress.I tie in a personal Pilates story that shows how accountability systems keep both students and teachers on track. I also walk through popular approaches teachers use for makeup lessons like group classes, swaps, virtual lessons, and asynchronous teaching. Finally, I explain how I now build makeup weeks along with flex weeks into my studio calendar for students and use flex weeks for myself to create margin and sustainability.If you have ever felt drained by makeup lessons or wondered how to set clear studio policies that work, this episode will help you sort through your options and find what fits your studio.Listen to Ep 48 The Raise You Didn't Know You Needed (all about flex weeks) https://podcasts.apple.com/ng/podcast/the-raise-you-didnt-know-you-needed-ep-48/id1749130212?i=1000709880746Keywords: piano teaching, makeup lessons, Pilates, teaching policies, studio management, teacher accountability, flex weeks, student engagement, music education, teaching strategies
In this episode of The Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast I share some reflections on volunteering as a music teacher and how it has looked different in each season of my life. From early years of barely being involved to now serving on a board, I talk about community involvement, mentorship, and professional growth through teacher events. I want to encourage you to think about volunteering in ways that feel sustainable and supportive of your own teaching journey. Sometimes it is as simple as sharing a post or saying thank you and other times it is stepping into leadership and supporting other teachers. Every contribution matters in music education and together we build stronger communities.
If you’ve ever felt like jazz and improv sound great in theory but overwhelming in practice, this episode is for you. I’m joined by pianist, educator, and author Quentin Walston to talk about how jazz and improvisation can help teachers re-engage students, fight burnout, and bring more creativity into everyday lessons, without needing a jazz degree to make it happen.Quentin’s book How to Teach Jazz & Improvisation is written for real teachers who want to normalize improvisation and make jazz feel approachable for students of any age.We talk about simple ways to start, why it doesn’t have to be complicated, and how just a few minutes of improv can transform your lessons.Get Quentin’s book: https://thisisjazz.com/product/how-to-teach-jazz-improvisation-book/Use coupon code TEACHJAZZ for $5 offAlso available on Amazon, MusicNotes (ebook), and Piano Marvel (interactive app with songs only)Grab my Policy Workbook with templates and tools to help you finally get your studio policies done, available now at www.scrappypianoteacher.com/resources/p/calendar-policy-scrappy-session-toolkit-replay-workbook-templatesJoin the next Scrappy Session in August all about SOPs for music studios at www.scrappypianoteacher.com/scrappysessions
Is Your Studio Policy a Contract or Just a Really Long PDF?You’ve got a policy, but is it doing what you think it is?In this episode, I’m talking about what a studio policy really is and what it is not. I’ll share how mine started, how I completely reworked it, and what finally helped me create something that made sense for both me and my studio families.We’ll talk about what a policy is meant to do, what does not belong in it, and why short and clear usually works better than long and formal. I will also walk through some of the systems and waivers that can support your policy without overcomplicating it.You’ll hear real-life takeaways based on experience, along with guidance supported by MTNA, Piano Inspires, and small business best practices.If you want help writing or updating your policy, join me for the next Scrappy Session on Friday, July 18th at 11:30 am Eastern. We will sit down together, and you’ll get a fill-in-the-blank workbook, a clear outline, and dedicated time to actually get it done.Register atwww.scrappypianoteacher.com/scrappysessionsTo get notified when the Scrappy Studio Policies Booklet is released later this month, subscribe atwww.scrappypianoteacher.com
In this episode, I’m breaking down how the Profit First system completely changed how I handle money in my studio and why it gave me more peace of mind than any spreadsheet ever did. I’ll walk you through how it works, how I set it up as a piano teacher, and the mindset shift that made all the difference. You’ll hear real examples from my studio, a few budgeting truths I had to learn the hard way, and the steps you can take to start simplifying your finances too.● Includes my Profit First Cheat Sheet for Music Teachers (free download at www.scrappypianoteacher.com)● Real talk on percentages, taxes, owner’s pay, and what to do if numbers overwhelm you● Bonus: How I use Scrappy Sessions to actually get this stuff doneIf you’ve ever felt like your studio money disappears before the month ends, this one’s for you.Subscribe to the email list and find resources at www.scrappypianoteacher.com
In this episode of The Scrappy Piano Teacher, Jaclyn Mrozek interviews pianist and educator William Perry, creator of the Piano Music Database. What began as a spreadsheet to help one adult student quickly turned into a tool that’s helping teachers across the country save hours of lesson planning.William shares how the database was built, how teachers are using it to find repertoire by concept, level, mood, and theme, and why it’s quickly becoming a favorite resource in both private studios and pedagogy classrooms. The conversation also explores how the tool supports living composers, provides preview recordings, and allows teachers to build custom lists for their students.The best part...it’s currently free to try during the beta period.Visit pianomusicdatabase.com to create a free account, and join the Piano Music Database Users group on Facebook to stay connected.Subscribe at www.scrappypianoteacher.com or send an email to jaclyn@scrappypianoteacher.com to connect with Jaclyn
In this episode, Jaclyn Mrozek discusses the importance of implementing flex weeks in teaching to promote work-life balance, a PTO for independent music teachers, as well as mental health. She emphasizes the need for clear communication with families, along with examples, in regarding changes in studio policies and tuition. The discussion also highlights the significance of taking time off without guilt and creating a sustainable studio model that supports both teachers and students.Visit www.scappypianoteacher.com for free resources and more!
In this episode of the Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast, host Jaclyn Mrozek shares her journey as an independent music teacher, emphasizing the importance of having a teaching philosophy. She recounts a recent experience accompanying a choir concert, which led her to reflect on her teaching methods and the value of self-questioning. The episode provides insights into crafting a personal teaching philosophy, discussing its significance in shaping studio culture, communication with students and parents, and defining success in music education. Jaclyn offers a four-part framework for developing a teaching philosophy, encouraging teachers to articulate their purpose, approach, priorities, and vision of success.Grab the Teaching Philosophy Template Here https://pianokats.kit.com/teachingphilosophyBeyond Measure Episode 13: Cheers to Simple-Philosophy Building - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-13-cheers-to-simple-philosophy-building/id1530440503?i=1000504950989Subscribe and more at www.scrappypianoteacher.comQuestions? Contact Jaclyn@scrappypianoteacher.com
About The Scrappy Piano Teacher PodcastHosted by Jaci MrozekFormerly The Music Teacher Mastermind PodcastThis podcast is for independent piano teachers who love teaching but feel overwhelmed by everything else...scheduling, tuition tracking, parent communication, lesson planning, and running a business.Whether you teach private piano lessons or group classes, you’ll find practical strategies and real-life solutions to help you run a sustainable music studio without burning out.Every other Monday, host Jaci Mrozek shares systems, tools, mindset shifts, and conversations with fellow music educators. You’ll learn how to streamline your piano studio, protect your time, and confidently lead your teaching business.If you’ve ever said, “I wish someone had taught me how to actually run my studio,” this podcast is for you.Subscribe, leave a review, and let’s get scrappy.
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind Podcast, host Jaclyn Mrozek interviews Sam Reti, founder of Muzie.live, a platform designed to enhance music education through innovative technology. Sam shares his musical background, the inception of Muzie, and how it evolved during the pandemic to meet the needs of music teachers and students. The conversation highlights the unique features of Muzie that differentiate it from traditional platforms like Zoom, including tailored audio quality for music lessons, integrated tools for teaching, and the ability to bridge online and in-person lessons seamlessly. Sam also discusses the platform's capabilities for group lessons and live streaming recitals, making it a versatile tool for music educators.Sign up for your two week trial at https://www.muzie.live/Muzie.Live is a virtual music studio offering high fidelity online, hybrid, and in-person lessons, featuring a comprehensive toolkit for engaging students, including a whiteboard, recording, file sharing, scheduling, a dedicated student practice room & more!Want to Connect?Jaclyn Mrozekwww.instagram.com/jaclynmrozek_pianoEmail: Jaclyn@pianokats.comJoin the Email List: pianokats.kit.com/profileFreebie Printables: www.pianokats.com/piano-printablesBuy Jaclyn A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozekIntro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind Podcast, Jaclyn Mrozek and Rachel Ehring discuss the role of collaborative pianists and how teachers can leverage accompanying gigs to supplement their income during the summer. In this conversation, Rachel and Jaclyn discuss the intricacies of playing music for weddings, including selecting appropriate music, understanding the importance of timing, and the essential questions musicians should ask clients. They also delve into the financial aspects of being a musician, such as managing music costs and setting rates. The discussion highlights the value of collaboration in enhancing musicianship and encourages musicians to embrace opportunities in accompanying.Rachel's Website: https://rachelehring.comRachel'sInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelehring/Collaborative Pianists' Rate Calculator: https://skilled-trailblazer-7766.kit.com/b5e06d175aFree 30-minute Workshop to increase your income as a pianist: https://skilled-trailblazer-7766.ck.page/a77faf8007Connect with Jaclyn: bio.site/jaclynmrozekBuy Jaclyn A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozekIntro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode, Jaclyn Mrozek discusses her personal experiences with burnout and imposter syndrome as a music teacher. She emphasizes the importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in maintaining a stable teaching environment, especially during challenging times.Jaclyn provides practical advice on creating effective SOPs to streamline studio management and reduce stress, ultimately supporting teachers in their professional journey.Want the FREE Standard Operating Procedures Workbook for Music Teachers? Grab it here -> https://pianokats.kit.com/sopworkbookRegistration for the Bootcamp is OPEN! Registrants before April 18th will receive a free 1 hour post consult. Space is limited. https://pianokats.kit.com/products/music-studio-bootcamp-2025New newsletter coming soon to begin to celebrate the 1 Year Anniversary of The Music Teacher Mastermind Podcast! Join the Scrappy Piano Teacher newsletter here pianokats.kit.com/scrappyFreebie Printables: www.pianokats.com/piano-printablesBuy Jaclyn A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozekIntro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind Podcast, host Jaclyn Mrozek welcomes Dorla Aparicio to discuss summer piano lessons and the innovative Piano Pyramid curriculum. Dorla shares her journey from Costa Rica to Texas, her teaching philosophy, and the structure of her summer piano camps and clubs. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging students through multi-level group lessons, effective lesson planning, and creating a fun learning environment for young musicians. They explore curriculum design for different age groups, the importance of engaging activities, and the flexibility of summer piano programs. ***Summer Curriculums: https://www.pianopyramid.com/piano-pyramid-store/piano-campsPiano Pyramid® Academy: https://www.pianopyramid.com/ppaoffer-20Multilevel Group Piano Ensembles: https://www.pianopyramid.com/piano-pyramid-store/multilevel-ensembles***Music Studio Bootcamp Waitlist https://pianokats.kit.com/musicstudiobootcampBuy Jaci a coffee buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozekContact Jaci jaclyn@pianokats.com***Intro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind Podcast, Jaclyn Mrozek interviews Nicola Canton about the upcoming Teacher Turbo Boost conference. They discuss the evolution of the conference from in-person to online, the importance of community among teachers, and the unique challenges faced by today's students. Nicola shares insights on how to engage students effectively, the significance of creating a safe space for creativity, and practical strategies for addressing generational differences in teaching. The conversation culminates in details about the conference schedule and registration.Join the Teacher Turboboost: Z to Alpha: What We Can Do To Help Today's Studentsvibrantmusic.lpages.co/teacher-turboboost-2025/Nicola's Pages:www.vibrantmusicteaching.comcolourfulkeys.ievividpractice.comJoin the Music Teacher Bootcamphttps://pianokats.kit.com/musicstudiobootcampBuy Jaclyn A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozekJaclyn on IGwww.instagram.com/jaclynmrozek_pianoEmail: Jaclyn@pianokats.comConsultation Calendar: Appointments 2 — Piano Kats Music EducationJoin the Email List: pianokats.kit.com/profileFreebie Printables: www.pianokats.com/piano-printablesIntro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode, Jaclyn Mrozek and Sarah Boyd reflect on their experiences at the MTNA 2025 conference, sharing highlights, personal connections, and valuable lessons learned. They discuss the importance of community in music education, memorable sessions, and unexpected moments that enriched their experience. The conversation emphasizes the significance of networking, innovative teaching techniques, and the joy of meeting fellow educators. ***Links Mentioned:MTNA Website: www.mtna.orgMTNA TEMPO Online Conference: www.mtna.org/Tempo/TEMPO_Home/Tempo/Home.aspx?hkey=9c893606-51df-43b0-9b1f-43aa684e85b0Connect with your state and local chapter! www.mtna.org/MTNA/Connect/State_Portal.aspxMusic Teacher Bootcamp Waitlist: pianokats.kit.com/e0aff276b4***Connect!Connect with Jaclyn: bio.site/jaclynmrozekConnect with Sarah: www.instagram.com/pianovinestudio/Buy Jaclyn A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozek***Intro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind podcast, host Jaclyn Mrozek discusses the upcoming Music Studio Bootcamp designed for independent music teachers. She reflects on her early teaching experiences, the challenges of navigating information overload, and the importance of revising teaching practices. The bootcamp aims to provide a structured and supportive environment for teachers to refine their policies, pricing, and systems while fostering a community of collaboration. Jaclyn emphasizes the need for teachers to evolve their practices and encourages listeners to take actionable steps towards improving their studios.Join the Waitlist! pianokats.kit.com/e0aff276b4***Want to Connect?Jaclyn Mrozekwww.instagram.com/jaclynmrozek_pianoEmail: Jaclyn@pianokats.comConsultation Calendar: Appointments 2 — Piano Kats Music EducationJoin the Email List: pianokats.kit.com/profileFreebie Printables: www.pianokats.com/piano-printablesBuy Jaclyn A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/jaclynmrozek***Intro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind Podcast, host Jaclyn Mrozek speaks with Andy Villemez and Annie Jeng about the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy (NCKP) 2025. They discuss the unique aspects of the conference, including its focus on piano education, the upcoming Innovation Summit, and the diverse range of topics covered. The conversation highlights the importance of networking, community building, and the quality of content presented at the conference, as well as the inclusivity of opportunities for young professionals and the emphasis on wellness and diversity in music education.***Check out the conference and better yet, register and join us! https://pianoinspires.com/nckp-the-piano-conference/***Want to Connect?www.instagram.com/jaclynmrozek_pianoEmail: Jaclyn@pianokats.comConsultation Calendar: https://www.pianokats.com/piano-teach...Join the Email List: http://pianokats.kit.com/profileFreebie Printables: www.pianokats.com/piano-printables***Intro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/m...
In this episode of the Music Teacher Mastermind podcast, Jaclyn Mrozek chats with Marie Lee about the benefits of group piano teaching and how to successfully integrate it into private studios. They explore buddy lessons, multi-level teaching, and engaging group activities that keep students motivated. Marie shares insights on lead sheets, group dynamics, technology in teaching, and student choice in performances.They also discuss the Group Illuminated Conference, a virtual, on-demand event designed for group piano teachers, by group piano teachers. Marie explains how this conference provides valuable strategies, real classroom experiences, and a supportive educator community. Plus, they dive into marketing group lessons to parents and how to make group teaching an exciting and sustainable part of any studio.***Links Mentioned in this EpisodeGroupIlluminatED website - sign up here to get our weekly email newsletter full of tips, techniques and inspiration www.leilaviss.com/about-group-illuminatedGroup IlluminatED Facebook pageGroup Teaching Blueprint by Marie Lee www.leilaviss.com/store-home/group-teaching-blueprint?rq=group%20teaching%20blueprintMusicality Schools in Las Vegas www.musicalityschools.comMayron Cole Blast Off With Piano Five Lesson Intro to Piano www.freepianomethod.com/free-files***Want to Connect?Jaclyn Mrozekwww.instagram.com/jaclynmrozek_pianoEmail: Jaclyn@pianokats.comConsultation Calendar: Appointments 2 — Piano Kats Music EducationJoin the Email List: pianokats.kit.com/profileFreebie Printables: www.pianokats.com/piano-printables***Intro and Outro MusicTitle: "Changes"Artist: Elizabeth SwiftCourtesy of: Elizabeth Swift Piano, ASCAPLink to Music:https://www.elizabethswiftpiano.com/music/p/changes-early-intermediate-jazz-inspired-piano-sheet-music?rq=changes