The opportunity to attend the SMU Institute for Piano Teachers afforded me to meet many wonderful people in my field and reconnect with piano teacher friends (in person) across the country. I also heard some wonderful piano playing by students attending the piano camp that runs simultaneously with the conference. WOW!  These young pianists were incredible.  Most of them were from the Dallas Metroplex area.

I was able to hear several presentations by composer and pianist, Robert Vandall.  I told him about my three students (who are sisters) playing his trio, Triple Dip, all over the Pensacola area last year!  It was a hit! 

Wendy Stevens gave two different presentations about Best Stress-Free Business Practices that were most-thought provoking and helpful.  Having been a follower of her blog for years, it was great to finally meet her in person!  She has so many wonderful, creative ideas, her students must love her!

Dr. Scott McBride Smith's presentation on Teaching Young Men: Some Advice from a Recovering Boy was not only entertaining but very informative.  Having two boys myself, in addition to male piano students, this was a very popular conversation topic!

I could go on and on and I just might, but a different day!

One thing I was very excited receive was the certificate for completion of thirty hours of professional pedagogy studies through the SMU Institute for Piano Teachers. 

This week I have been an active participant in Southern Methodist University Institute for Piano Teachers in Dallas, TX. It has been wonderful to be surrounded be the top piano teachers in the country as presenters and colleagues. I look forward to implementing  new ideas into my teaching this Fall!  Fall lessons begin the week of August 27.