Village Musicians

One of the most meaningful benefits of learning to play the piano is being able to bring joy and comfort to others. One of the most meaningful benefits of group piano is the confidence that's built from Day 1 as students play in front of others. One of my sweet teens (mildly autistic) demonstrated this last weekend as he performed two beautiful solos at his grandfather's memorial service. What a tender tribute to his abuelo ❤

I teach all group classes and our curriculum is a mix between solo and ensemble work. It's CRITICAL that students have solo pieces ready that they can perform for their family, friends, or for school and church events. The pieces that this teen performed were actually his solos for our upcoming National Federation of Music Clubs solo festival in March. They happened to be calming, beautiful pieces suited well to this funeral environment. Two other younger students are performing their festival solos at their upcoming school talent shows.

Considered one of the pioneers of our modern-day group piano movement, Mayron Cole's goal is to create "village musicians" who can learn multiple compositions in a short amount of time. Pianists who play for weddings, church services, funerals, or accompany choirs, do not have months to spend learning each composition. Village musicians are required to learn multiple compositions in just a few days.

How does it work?

Students learn compositions quickly, even advanced students who only spend a week or two on each composition.

Students are placed in small groups based on their playing abilities. Group classes help students become more familiar with each other and reduce performance anxiety.

Students learn multiple compositions in a short amount of time, preparing them to play for weddings, funerals, and church services.

What are the benefits?

The fast-paced environment keeps students engaged.

Group classes help students become stronger musicians.

Group classes help students improve their rhythm counting and sight-reading skills.

Students are ready at any time to perform at important events.

How do you incorporate a mix of solo and ensemble work in your group classes? Join the discussion on our Group IlluminatED Facebook page and share your ideas.