363 episodes

A weekly show for everyone who teaches music lessons and wants to improve their craft. We discuss integrated music teaching ideas designed to make you the very best teacher you envision, so you can create lessons students love. The show is hosted by Tim Topham, founder of TopMusic, and features distinguished guests regularly. Tim holds an MBA in Educational Leadership, BMus, DipEd and AMusA.

Integrated Music Teaching Podcast Tim Topham

    • Education
    • 4.8 • 124 Ratings

A weekly show for everyone who teaches music lessons and wants to improve their craft. We discuss integrated music teaching ideas designed to make you the very best teacher you envision, so you can create lessons students love. The show is hosted by Tim Topham, founder of TopMusic, and features distinguished guests regularly. Tim holds an MBA in Educational Leadership, BMus, DipEd and AMusA.

    363: Have You Subscribed?

    363: Have You Subscribed?

    Welcome back to another exciting bonus episode! Today, I'm thrilled to bring you a lineup of incredible updates and announcements, including the launch of the TopMusic Piano Podcast, hosted by the amazing Dr. Rachel Ehring. Our spotlight is on our latest episode, featuring Tara Mock on How to Have Conversations with Parents of Neurodiverse Students, emphasizing a valuable statement for every lesson moving forward.
    Plus, we'll delve into the world of teaching neurodivergent students with insights from our successful webinar and our new course "Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students." And don't miss out on our upcoming workshop series on Exam Preparation and Performance Strategies. Make sure to subscribe to Rachel's podcast, join the workshop series waitlist, and mark your calendar for the MTNA conference next month. Let's dive in!
    Links MentionedTopMusic Piano PodcastSubscribe to TopMusic Piano Podcast in Apple PodcastsSubscribe to TopMusic Piano Podcast in SpotifyJoin the waitlist for our workshop series on Exam Preparation and Performance Strategies
    Thank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.
    If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.
    Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
    TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    • 7 min
    362: Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students in 2024 with Confidence and Success

    362: Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students in 2024 with Confidence and Success

    In this bonus episode of the Integrated Music Teaching podcast, we're announcing our upcoming webinar, "Unfazed: Teaching Neurodivergent Students in 2024 with Confidence and Success" featuring our expert educator Selena Pistoresi. This webinar aims to address concerns and provide guidance for teachers working with neurodivergent students, covering topics such as recognizing student learning needs, effective lesson planning, and managing difficult behaviors. This webinar is going to be relevant for teachers of all students, regardless of diagnosis. Join our free webinar on February 14th at 8 AM Melbourne time, which is February 13th at 4 PM Eastern time and 9 PM London time.

    Register for the webinar here.
    Thank you for tuning in!
    Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

    If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

    Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
    TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

    • 3 min
    361: 2023 Wrap-Up & Sneak Peak Into 2024

    361: 2023 Wrap-Up & Sneak Peak Into 2024

    Welcome to a special episode where we're wrapping up the incredible journey that was 2023 and offering an exciting sneak peek into what's in store for 2024. This live recording brings together our fantastic community of registered participants to dive into the achievements of the past year and unveil our plans for the future. I'll be sharing some noteworthy highlights, including successful releases like my No Book Beginners book, TopMusic Quiz and the groundbreaking Top Music Certification program. Plus get ready for a big reveal as we introduce TopMusic Piano Podcast with our new host, Dr. Rachel Ehring. Get ready for an engaging session filled with insights, plans, and the vibrant energy of our incredible community. Let's dive in!
    Tim shares an overview of TopMusic achievements in 2023 and plans for 2024.His announcement of taking a break from the podcast.Some highlights of 2023, recap of successful releases, including a No Book Beginners Book, TopMusic quiz and TopMusic Certification program.Introduction of the TopMusic Piano Podcast with Rachel Ehring as the new host.Other releases in 2023, including courses, TopMusicSheets, TopMusicGames, Piece by Piece videos, Method book reviews and Pop Song Solutions.Tim Topham discusses the upcoming MTNA conference in March.The focus for the upcoming year on helping teachers use existing content effectively and building a strong community.The special needs teaching course by Selena Pistaresi will be re-released, focusing on neurodivergent students.An upcoming challenge for the Advancing Students Course to support teachers in gaining confidence.Tim reflects on the history of the podcast, mentioning its name changes and the upcoming transition back to "TopCast."He shares the experiences and benefits of the certification program and emphasizes the importance of community building.
    Links MentionedNo Book Beginners BookNo Book Beginners AudiobookRegister for the TopMusic Certification Q&AThe Ultimate TopMusic Guide to Intermediate Curriculum Planning for Piano TeachersTeaching Advance Students Self Assessment HandoutPlanning Challenge 2024Perfecting Performance and Exam Preparation Workshop 2024
    Thank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.
    If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.
    Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
    a href="https://members.topmusic.co/register/tmp-studio-monthly?coupon=IMTPOD23" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"...

    • 44 min
    360: Introducing the TopMusic Piano Podcast

    360: Introducing the TopMusic Piano Podcast

    In today's episode, we're thrilled to share a major announcement. Dr. Rachel Ehring, our esteemed guest, takes us through her unexpected journey from our chance encounter at NCKP to her new role as the host of the TopMusic Piano Podcast. As a music teacher and director of a conservatory, Rachel shares insights into her unique career path, the challenges of reopening the conservatory post-COVID, and her passion for embracing creative resources in piano teaching. Don't miss this episode full of insights, reflections, and the unveiling of a new chapter in the Top Music Piano Podcast journey.
    Rachel's background as a music teacher, the director of a conservatory, and her journey in reopening it. The focus on creative resources for piano teachers in Rachel's own podcast. Inspiration from Tim's podcast during the COVID period when she resumed teaching. Tim's decision to step back from the podcast after seven years and 360 episodes. Rachel's excitement about taking on the role of the new host for the Top Music Piano Podcast. Plans for the podcast, including exploring creative resources, the business side, and collaborative piano. Tim's encouragement for those with entrepreneurial ideas to give it a try. Rachel's invitation for listeners to share ideas for shows or guests for the new podcast.
    Links Mentioned TopMusic Piano Podcast Subscribe to TopMusic Piano Podcast in Apple Podcasts Subscribe to TopMusic Piano Podcast in Spotify Register for the TopMusic Q&A Session
    Today’s Guest

    Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.
    TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIALThank you for tuning in!

    Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

    If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

    Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays...

    • 32 min
    359: Why Julie & Sue Became TopMusic Certified Teachers

    359: Why Julie & Sue Became TopMusic Certified Teachers

    In this episode, we're chatting with two remarkable music educators who recently became TopMusic Certified Teachers, Julie Galan and Sue Stubbs. Julie, a passionate piano teacher based in Arizona, candidly shares her transformative journey within the TopMusic Certification program. Overcoming a period of stagnation, Julie discovered renewed zeal through the unique cohort-based approach, making positive changes in her studio, including the introduction of group lessons and setting long-term goals.
    Sue Stubbs, a dedicated home-based studio teacher from Australia, joins the discussion to share her insights. Sue reflects on the challenges she faced, the significance of purposeful creativity, and the transformative impact of the program on her lesson planning. Both educators emphasize the diverse focus of the certification, spanning financials, marketing, and the invaluable sense of community cultivated by Tim and Bec. Tune in to hear firsthand how the TopMusic Certification program reignited their passion, fostered professional growth, and transformed their teaching practices.
    Julie Galan shares some insights about her music studio in Prescott Valley, Arizona. The shift in her teaching approach after discovering TopMusic Certification program.The positive impact of live weekly cohort meetings, highlighting the value of immediate interaction, asking questions, and sharing experiences with other teachers.She shares the expansion of her studio, introduction of group lessons, and positive feedback from students and parents.The wide array of topics covered in the certification, from financials to marketing strategies.The difficulty of breaking linear teaching habits.Reflection on the assessment process, emphasizing the value of self-reflection and improvement.Sue Stubbs provides a brief overview of her home-based music studio in Australia.She shares her motivation for joining the Top Music Certification program.The invaluable connections and accountability gained through weekly meetings with the cohort.Sue details the positive changes resulting from the certification program, focusing on purposeful integration of creativity into lessons.Some changes in her lesson planning approach, highlighting a more flexible and resource-conscious methodThe program's benefits in reinforcing professionalism, providing confidence, and fostering collaboration with other teachers.
    Links Mentioned Register here and join our podcast live recording & 2023 wrap-upTopMusic Certification ProgramRegister for the TopMusic Q&A Session
    Today’s GuestSUE STUBBSSue Stubbs is a piano and woodwind teacher, writer, artist, and performer. Sue's passion is bringing the joy of music and creativity into the lives of everyone around her. She has  published several short stories and performs regularly in a concert band, swing jazz  band and a covers duo. Sue is currently working on her first novel and is studying a Masters Degree in Learning and Teaching. Sue loves walking, reading, coffee and being mum to her three adult children and a rather needy but loveable dog. Sue holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Work, A.T.C.L Pianoforte Performance, and A.T.C.L Speech and Drama Teaching.
    JULIE GALANJulie Galan is a seasoned piano teacher from Prescott Valley, Arizona, with a diverse group of 36 students. Her pupils span the age spectrum, from lively preschoolers at the age of three and also adult...

    • 43 min
    358: The Best Instrumental Music Teacher Certification

    358: The Best Instrumental Music Teacher Certification

    In this episode, we're joined by Rebecca Stewart, the community manager and the head of certification at TopMusic. Join us as we explore the overview of TopMusic Certification Program, reflecting on the first cohort's experiences, and uncover some of the unique features that set this program apart. We discuss the value of certification in terms of live cohort learning, flexibility, and its sharp focus on practical, real-world teaching. Listen in for exclusive excerpts from cohort meetings, where teachers passionately discuss teaching tools, share transformative experiences, and express the profound impact of the certification program. And stay tuned for a special announcement about the upcoming enrollment for the next cohort of the Top Music Certification program. Get ready to be inspired and informed on the latest and greatest in instrumental music education!

    Bec shares some insights into her life and into her dual role as a piano teacher at a school and at her home.
    Overview of the Top Music Certification Program.
    Reflections on the first cohort of Top Music Certification.
    Some unique features of the certification program.
    The value of certification in terms of live cohort learning, flexibility, and focus on practical, real-world teaching.
    Bec and Tim express their enthusiasm for the cohort learning model, gaining insights and building connections with teachers worldwide.
    Some excerpts from the cohort meetings, featuring teachers discussing teaching tools, sharing experiences, and expressing the impact of the certification program.
    Announcement that enrollment for the next cohort of the Top Music Certification program will be opening soon.
    Systematic approach to the playbook, resembling a course guide based on the Presto framework for certification.


    Links Mentioned

    TopMusic Certification Program
    Register for the TopMusic Q&A Session


    Today’s Guest


    Rebecca grew up listening to her three older sisters practice their musical instruments. She delighted in her childhood music lessons and wanted to teach young children in a fun and creative way. Her piano teacher at Melbourne University recommended the Yamaha method, and Rebecca taught with Yamaha Music Education Centres from 1998 to 2018. She loved being a national teacher trainer with Yamaha, and enjoyed opportunities to travel to Toronto and Tokyo for Yamaha teacher development events. In 2016 Rebecca went to Jakarta where her 8-year-old Yamaha student performed his original  composition at the Asia Pacific Junior Original Concert. Her first book "Sight Reading Secrets Grade One" was published in 2004, and there are now nine books in the series. In 2023, Rebecca worked with Tim Topham in developing the TopMusic Certification program.
    TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL
    Thank you for tuning in!
    Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

    If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

    Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.

    • 49 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
124 Ratings

124 Ratings

Missbg123 ,

Inspiring

TopCast is the podcast I look forward to listening. Tim invites interesting guests who share their ideas and experience on topics that are relevant to piano teachers. I have enjoyed the diversity of speakers and topics and highly recommend this podcast to teachers of all levels.

texbj ,

Highly recommended for music instructors!

I have listened to this podcast for several years and have grown so much in my teaching from what I’ve gleaned from this podcast. Highly recommend for music teachers of all levels of experience and genres.

kiteens ,

Susan Bressette Measuring Success in Smiles

Thank you, Susan!

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the whole world of teachers could embrace all the struggling learners of the world with your enthusiasm.

I am a music teacher in a school for over 100 children with severe developmental disabilities. I have degrees in Speech therapy, MA Ed. Special Education, and am Suzuki trained, and have been teaching music lessons for over 40 years.

I have taught children with cerebral palsy, blindness, deafness, TBI, Downs Syndrome, autism and multiple disabilities.

I learned more from your podcast today than I have from many others. Thank you for your inspiration and hard work. Your work will carry on through all teachers who have the blessing of hearing you speak. All the best to you and your family.

Kit Bednar, from TheMusicKit.org (site incomplete as of 9/14/20)

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