2021 – December
Submitted by – Connecting Canada – 2021 CFMTA/FCAPM Virtual Conference
Title: Loud and Clear: Diversifying the Repertoire: A Guide to Teaching New Styles
Presenter: Amy Boyes
Teaching music outside the classical canon can be challenging for the time-strapped music teacher. It can be simpler to assign the same, well-loved repertoire student after student, especially if the styles and musical idioms are well-known. The ability to play confidently in many styles of music, however, is a valuable skillset. Although it is preferable for students to be exposed to a variety of musical styles from an early stage of development, it is not uncommon for an elementary or intermediate student to have never played non-classical music.
This session will explore practical tips for introducing non-classical music to classicallytraining students, using the technical and musicianship skills already acquired.
By identifying both the limit and potential of these skills, Amy Boyes explores the process of broadening a student’s repertoire. Video footage from actual lessons is featured along with interview segments with students.
Amy Boyes is a clinician, adjudicator, examiner, and writer. Her writing has been featured in the European Piano Teachers’ Association’s Piano Professional, MTNA’s Music Teacher Magazine, the Frances Clark Center’s Piano Magazine, the Canadian Music Teacher Magazine, among others. As a speaker, Amy has presented at music teacher conferences in both Canada and the US and for the Royal Conservatory.
Amy holds associate diplomas in performance and pedagogy, a BMus from Brandon University and a MMus from the University of Alberta.
