In 2018 an exciting new course for piano teachers was established. Over 35 teachers enrolled on the course from all over the world. The varied programme proved thought-provoking and inspirational. The course is now firmly established as an integral part of the summer school.

We are delighted to announce that Dr Nellie Seng will be leading the course in 2026, on part one of the course.

This keyboard pedagogy course offers piano teachers a practical, integrated approach
to effective and healthy teaching. Led by the Course Leader, the programme combines
focused pedagogy sessions with daily lesson observations and selected specialist
classes such as Dalcroze, Alexander Technique, and musical analysis. Core topics
include healthy technique and tension management, engaging approaches to technical
work, performance anxiety across age groups, musicianship at the keyboard, and
effective lesson design. Emphasis is placed on diagnostic listening, age-appropriate
strategies, and immediately transferable teaching tools that can be applied confidently
in the studio.

Sample Day-by-Day Thematic Structure
Daily structure:
4 core pedagogy sessions
Remaining sessions: lesson observation / specialist class attendance

 
Day 1 — Foundations: Body, Sound, and Setup
• Healthy posture, alignment, and bench setup across age groups
• Identifying and preventing physical tension in piano playing
• Early habit formation in young learners
• Observation focus: posture, movement, and tone production

 
Day 2 — Technique That Works
• Making scales and technical work musical, purposeful, and engaging
• Diagnosing technical issues: cause vs symptom
• Teaching coordination, control, and speed without strain
• Observation focus: technical problem-solving in real lessons

 
Day 3 — Mind, Practice, and Performance
• Performance anxiety across the ages: manifestations and strategies
• Building confidence, motivation, and healthy practice habits
• Memory strategies for secure learning
• Observation focus: teacher language, feedback, and motivation

 
Day 4 — Musicianship Through the Keyboard
• Tone production, touch, and listening as core teaching skills
• Articulation, pedalling, and stylistic awareness
• Teaching musical meaning beyond notes
• Observation focus: sound, phrasing, and musical intention

 
Day 5 — Teaching the Teacher
• Structuring effective piano lessons across age groups
• Developing diagnostic listening and observation skills
• Communicating with parents and adult learners
• Integration and reflection: connecting observation, movement, and pedagogy

It is possible to attend the course as a resident, non-resident, or as a day participant.