Workshops

Paula has presented for various music teacher associations throughout the United States (in-person and online), China, Spain, and Brazil.

In May 2023, she was invited to do an 8 city tour China. She presented her Little Gems for Piano books and performed candlelit Musical Meditation concerts.

She recently participated in a panel discussion for NCKP about the powers of rote pieces. She regularly showcases her work at NCKP and MTNA conferences.

Her presentations cover the importance of rote pieces, materials available, how to teach them, and tools to use them for improvisation and composition.

Topics

Rote Pieces: One Piece of the Pedagogical Puzzle

Beginners love exploring the magical sounds of the piano. With their colorful sonorities, impressive repeated patterns, and vast registers, rote pieces give the new student a chance to truly express music from the very beginning. 

Teachers will learn how to teach by demonstration, gain new tools for creativity in the lesson, and will discover new resources to round out and complement the standard beginning repertoire.

Piano Flow- Create and Elevate

Paula believes that we can use music-making as a calming, therapeutic outlet. She will offer some introductory improvisational exercises that you can use alone or with your students, even while teaching online! Paula uses her Little Gems for Piano pieces as a springboard for creativity.

Even if you have never improvised, you will leave the session with some concrete tools that will allow you to explore the piano in fresh, new ways. We will also explore some creative exercises for reaching for your dreams and brainstorming about improving your teaching experience.

This nurturing session will end in meditation while Paula serenades you with her improvisational “Musical Meditations.” Prepare to get inspired and soak in some creative, flowing energy!


OMTA Presentation for the Tualatin Chapter of Oregon