Piano Teacher Favorites
Your ULTIMATE GUIDE to Must-Have Tools for a Teacher Life Worth Living
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Dry Erase Staff Boards
I use these in nearly every lesson I teach, and give them away to every pedagogy student I work with. They are essential to how I teach students to read notation... not to mention aural skills, rhythmic relationships, and so much more.
This board is sturdy and stands up to heavy use from my group classes.
Marble Mesh Fidget Toys
If you are tired of students playing while you are talking, THIS is what you need.
Sometimes students just need something to do with their fingers, and the piano keys are their most obvious solution. Without saying a word, I will often pass a fidgety student one of these marble mesh toys.
They are quiet, require no brain power, yet provide that physical stimulus many anxious students need.
Interchangeable Stamps: Teacher Edition
I quit stickers cold-turkey many years ago, and these are the PERFECT alternative when inspiration strikes.
The happy face and thumbs-up stamps are endlessly handy, and students go CRAZY for the chance to stamp their own page.
Goodbye, messy stickers!
THE Lollipop Drum
This one's destined to be my legacy...
I have a lot of supplementary percussion instruments, but this is a favorite. Its timbre is pleasant and the slim profile allows for easy storage.
If a student is having a challenging moment, I can hold the handle myself (which means I can take it away anytime I need!). My students sometimes use it in place of the key cover for "tabletop practice" because of the helpful resonance.
PS: Size matters here. Get the 10-inch drum.
Iwako Erasers
If you know.... you know. These are the perfect manipulatives for learning white key names, building scales, chords, etc. The possibilities are endless.
Not all puzzle erasers are created equal. It is increasingly-difficult to find quality packs, with selections that actually sit upright on piano keys. This bunch is good. The hedgehogs are my absolute favorite.
Pro tip: I superglue the pieces together so they don't go missing (and it keeps students from tearing them apart).
Letter Board
I display my studio mantra on a letter board each year and it's another one of those things that feeds into a sense of studio TRADITION. *This is not the board I have, but it's the one I will buy if/when I upgrade. I love the size and those skinny letters are THE CUTEST.
Hidrau Piano Bench
Okay: Truth be told, I don't own this yet. BUT I WILL.
If you are in the market for an adjustable bench, hydraulic mechanisms are THE BEST.
After purchasing my four Kawai KDP75's, I've sworn off big studio purchases until I meet some other financial goals. But when the opportunity arises, this baby is coming to my house. I've done my research. I know it's what I want.
If you get yours before I do, go ahead: make me jealous. I promise to be happy for you.
Magnifying Glasses
I love to use magnifying glasses to make score analysis more fun with my littles. I also use them to "hunt" for proper hand position and so much more.
...if attention appears to be waning, you'll be surprised how quickly students come back around if you let them hold a magnifying glass!
Bongo Drums
...speaking of percussion instruments... this is a sturdy set that works on your lap, on the table, or under your arm.
I like having two sizes of drumheads; perfect for drilling rhythms in each hand, or letting the larger drum represent the macrobeat (while the smaller allows for the microbeat).
Collapsible Finger Puppets
I thank the great Diane Hidy for introducing me to these! They serve as my reminder that words are not always the answer when we're teaching. Instead of TELLING students to correct their slouch, all I have to do is grab "Mr. Sloppy" (named by a student). By pushing on the bottom, all of his joints collapse, sending him into a comical slump, and students instantly know to correct their posture.
"The Hand"
I purchased one of these from IKEA years ago, and it's become our unofficial studio mascot, of sorts. I love the physical manipulation of the top finger joint, so students can practice putting the nail joint at the correct angle (not collapsing backwards, but also not *over* flexing the other direction). Beyond that, students LOVE leaving the hand in different configurations on my shelf as they leave. Silly, effective, and fun.
Magazine Files
THIS is my solution for organizing and storing my endless-supply of music books.
A robust library of materials is pretty high on my list of studio teacher priorities, and these make it easy to group like materials together in an affordable manner.
These specific files have stood the test of time for me (several years running with little signs of wear!), and are affordable enough to replace when that day comes.
Automatic Three-Hole Punch
My manual three-hole punch was one of those things that caused me an irrational amount of frustration. My mother-in-law gifted me this for Christmas and I can't imagine going back. Now, I smile every time I prepare to pop worksheets or printed music into my students' binders.
Foil Sticky Tabs
Listen, friends: NOT ALL STICKY TABS ARE CREATED EQUAL. Use these so your students know EXACTLY which pages to practice: no excuses!
I don't pay more for vanity often, but these make me happy enough to justify spending a bit more. I find Post-It brand sticky tabs to be THE best, and the sheen of these brings me joy.
Craft Keeper
I have to give credit to Melody Payne for introducing Piano Teacher World to this amazing organization tool for all our music card games, manipulatives, and more. You can purchase this in more subdued color schemes, but I'm partial to the bright colors in this set.
MORE Sticky Notes
I appreciate how this set contains lined post-its but also different sizes of blank notes. (Like any good teacher, clearly I'm post-it obsessed!) And - again - I love dollar store finds and all, but NOTHING beats the stickiness of actual Post-It brand sticky notes. They stand the test of time in a way the others just don't.
Strong Man Bookends
My students are FOREVER commenting how much they love these bookends in my studio... so much so, I purchased a second set!
It's a great way to incorporate some fun in a functional way (that doesn't just clutter up my space with stuff).
Transparent Sticky Notes
So many sizes, so many uses! I've enjoyed finding unique purposes for each of the several varieties included in this set. Plus, students LOVE earning the "privilege" of removing stickies once they've made corrections.
Want to keep your music clean for festivals/competitions? These are your solution.
SPECIAL Sticky Notes
I love the bonus-level enthusiasm that comes with this set.
I will often send students out the door wearing one of these with a personalized note like a badge of honor.
Hand-Shaped Sticky Notes
A studio family gifted me these and I am obessed with the possibilities. They are small and sure to be a conversation starter with each student.
Rolling Laptop Stand
I purchased this laptop stand 3 years ago and it's still going strong. It's a little stiff to roll around the room, but I never need to move it far. This cart allows me to take lesson notes while I'm teaching (I'm a stand-up teacher, not a sitter!), and it also gives me terrific flexibility when it comes to different angles for online teaching. I purchased this one because I liked having a place for my drink, as well as the (small, but functional) lower shelves. It's been a terrific purchase.
(PS: They also sell them in discounted 2-packs, in case you are looking for a multi-teacher studio!)
Intelligent Music Teaching (Duke)
This collection of essays by Robert Duke is my go-to recommendation for studio music teachers looking to challenge the status-quo.
Even if you don't agree with everything Duke says, this is a great kickstart to more effective teaching.
More on this book in Episode 130 of Beyond Measure.
The Mindful Musician (Cornett)
If you know anything about Vanessa Cornett, you know she is sincere and thorough in her search for wellness.
I consider this book to be THE definitive source of mindfulness practices for musicians, packed with research and anecdotes to help us as teachers, performers, and human beings.
Vanessa's writing style is authoritative-yet-accessible, making it an easy read.
More on this book in Episodes 132 and 180 of Beyond Measure.
Big Magic (Gilbert)
Big Magic is a favorite amongst Creatives, and with good reason. Elizabeth Gilbert's manifesto is packed with food-for-thought and encouragement to put insecurities aside and DO THE ARTISTIC THING.
This is also where Gilbert introduces The Central Paradox, which is a critial part of my Paradox of Play session (available for purchase under Teacher Support)
More on this book in Episode 133 of Beyond Measure.
Professional Piano Teaching (Jacobson)
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by infinite possibilities in Intermediate Teaching, this is your guide to making sense of it all. I love it SO MUCH, Janna Williamson and I are co-leading a book study on this in September 2025. Check out the details under Teacher Support.
More on this book in Episode 222 of Beyond Measure
Questions and Answers (Clark)
A compilation of (the QUEEN!) Frances Clark's published columns from Clavier magazine. Because there truly is nothing new under the sun, this advice holds true today, more than ever.
More on this book in Episode 137 of Beyond Measure.
Atomic Habits (Clear)
The instant-classic on how we become who we are. James Clear writes from experience and research, affirming much of what we already know as piano teachers.
More on this book in episode 129 of Beyond Measure.
The Artist's Joy (Estevez)
Merideth Hite-Estevez, of the Artists for Joy podcast, gives a beautiful, ACTIONABLE collection of reflections to help you connect with your true Artist Self.
More on this book in Episode 174 of Beyond Measure.
Burnout (Nagoski)
The premise of "unlocking the stress cycle" is pretty game-changing. This is an easy read, full of applicable suggestions to combat the physical manifestations of stress that can, indeed, lead to that nasty phenomenon of burnout.
More on this book in Episode 134 of Beyond Measure.
On Being Mortal (Gawande)
Not teaching related - though it ends with a BEAUTIFUL story about a piano teacher - Atul Gawande examines the way we approach end-of-life care in a myriad of situations. It sounds like a downer, but it's actually quite the opposite.
More on this book in Episode 062.
The Ways Children Learn Music (Bluestine)
This book is widely-regarded at the best starting point for Music Learning Theory (MLT), developed by Dr. Edwin Gordon.
Regardless of your chosen methodology, this book makes crucial connections between music, research, and language that we should all be aware of.
More on this book in Episode 135 of Beyond Measure.
The Practice Revolution (Johnston)
This is a GREAT read for anyone looking to better understand the art of practice. I love Philip Johnston's subtitle, "Getting great results from the six days between music lessons".
(Just remember you are not, actually, in control with how students spend their time without you).
Every Good Boy Does Fine (Denk)
When it comes to memoir, this one is absolute perfection. I found myself savoring every word.
Jeremy Denk has a captivating writing style that draws you into his life and prestigious career. Any teacher will appreciate his words.
Under Pressure (Damour)
A focused look into the everyday stressors of young women (re: our students) - with the bulk of the applications relevant to any gender. Lisa Damour is my go-to voice for advice on teens.
More on this book in Episode 136 of Beyond Measure
The Gifts of Imperfection (Brown)
I re-read this book every January because it centers me in my work with others, and in better understanding myself. Check out our 2024 book study in the Superfriends Community!
More on this book in Episode 131 of Beyond Measure.
Say Yes (Erikson)
My very favorite kick-in-the-pants book for Creatives (but also anyone searching for meaning in their lives). This read is for everyone needing a reminder to let your light shine. Lots of (non-denominational) spirituality here, FYI.
. This book was the impetus of Episode 107 of Beyond Measure.
Joyful (Lee)
Note teaching related - Ingrid Fetell Lee shares her scientific examination of the objects in life that spark universal joy. This book changes the way you see the world (for the better).
BlueTurn Pedal
As recommended by my pal, Amy Chaplin, this wireless pedal has been the perfect companion to my iPad+ForScore app.
I know there are lots of options for bluetooth pedals out there, but I appreciate the simplicity of this device.
Bone Induction Headphones
True Confession: I don't like earbuds. They hurt after a short period of time and I can't shake the fact that we shouldn't be sticking things in our ears.
For me, the answer has been bone induction headphones. These sit around your ears (not in them!) and allow me to listen for much longer.
Kawai KDP-75
I spent MANY hours trying digital pianos in the summer of 2021, trying to find just the right instruments to add to my studio. I have been quite satisfied with this choice.
I added four of these to my studio and began offering multi-level group classes in an effort to downsize my working hours. It's been a great move.
Logitech Brio Webcam
This webcam helps my online lessons (and teacher meetups!) looking and sounding fantastic. I am no tech-master, so I appreciate how easy this camera has made everything for me.
Happy Light
My husband bought me this light in 2022 and I am always singing its praises. This little buddy of mine truly does help me feel better, especially during the dreary winter months.
PS: Because of its size and multiple shades/intensities, it also doubles as a great backlight for video/recording tasks.
My Go-To Graduation Gift
This is my go-to present when I attend graduation Open Houses.
One Line a Day journals prompt users to write a one-sentence reflection at the end of each day, with room for five years of reflections on each page.
I explain to students how much I would *love* to look back on my college years in this way. I stick some cash inside (when resources allow) and leave some heartfelt advice in the front cover for them.
(It's basically "Facebook memories" in written form)
Owala Bottles
I was an Owala fan long before they became trendy. THIS WATER BOTTLE makes drinking water more fun. It just does. The combination of being able to sip AND chug is out-of-this-world satisfying. These keep my drinks cold throughout long teaching stretches.
PS: The 24-ounce will fit in most car cupholders. Any bigger and you're going to have trouble.
I like the sleekness of this black version, but they also come in LOTS of fun colors.
I've gifted these to teachers, friends, and family over and over again. They're THAT good.
LED Candles
I have an embarrassing number of these throughout my house. They operate on a daily timer, so I am pleasantly-surprised each evening when my home instantly becomes a little more magical, without any effort on my part.
It's the little things in life, right?
My Favorite Planner
Like many of us, I'm always on the hunt for The Perfect Planner.
The truth is, NO planner will work if you don't make it part of your routine through intention and repetition.
That said, Monk Manual is my planner of choice. It balances to-do's with reflective practices and comes with an incredible amount of follow-up from the company to help make sure you are getting the most from your Monk Manual.
Use code BEYONDMEASURE to save 10%.
Ninja Drip Coffee Maker
Easily the hardest working appliance in my house. Call me crazy, but I'm not a fan of coffee pods.
This little buddy has made us multiple cups of coffee each day since 2017 and is still going strong.
Sweet and Spicy Tea from Good Earth
Another Amy Chaplin find, this tea is just delicious. My dark-as-night-coffee-loving-self sometimes struggles to find tea I love, but this is a consistently-satisfying alternative.
Ninja Foodi
I try to be relatively minimalist when it comes to appliances, but after years of trying to "make do" with a too-small-for-us air fryer, I finally upgraded to this sanity-saving model.
It's large, but flips up for more convenient storage.
I count air fryers as ENDLESSLY more helpful for assisting in teacher-dinner chaos than the Instant-Pot.
Looking for Student Music Recommendations?
Click to see a (small) selection of my (many) favorite supplemental collections.
*Please note: Affiliate links are used on this page, which provide me a small amount of compensation without costing you anything extra.
I take recommendations seriously and have only included things I use consistently.
