Playing Music for Fun

In the second decade of the 21st century, the study of the piano can be an experience that is significantly different from what it was in the 20th century or even just a few years ago. With MIDI-capable instruments, interactive digital sheet music, and other resources for in-person and online learning, students today can learn more quickly and more readily experience the personal joy of music making.

​The piano is a remarkable tool for personal expression, accessible to anyone, from grade-schoolers to senior citizens. No matter whether you have never had piano lessons, had lessons many years ago, or have played continuously as a hobbyist, you will enjoy a modern approach to learning to play this instrument.

Studying Music with Career Ambitions

Since the early 1990s, George has been a frequent presenter at national music educator conferences in the United States including Music Teachers National Association (NCKP), National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy (NCKP), College Music Society (CMS), Association for Technology in Music Instruction (ATMI), and Technology in Music Education (TI:ME).

In the course of these activities, he has worked closely with other professional musicians presenting multimedia performances, demonstrating long distance teaching techniques, applying contemporary technologies to music scholarship, and mentoring professional studio development.

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Testimonials

Fulfilling Your Musical Aspirations

Music-Making at Home
​Comments from one of George’s middle-school students:

I began taking lessons with George four years ago after my brother and I received a piano for Christmas. Throughout these past four years, he has taught me the tips and tricks of the piano, how to play with both hands together, and how to perform more advanced music than I ever thought I could play.

George is a fun teacher and not only teaches me music, but the history and facts about the artist we are learning. He also teaches about the function of the piano itself. He is interested in our lives outside the piano too. We talk about Lego building, 3D printing, school events, and even TV shows.

When the COVID virus struck, George was able to continue teaching us remotely on his apps (MIDI and Classroom Maestro), which helped us to continue our learning during that time.

One of the most memorable moments of our lessons was when George had me record a piece of music, and then he sent my recording to the composer, Paul Sheftel. Then George set up a meeting with Paul over Zoom and we talked about playing his music. It was an exciting moment for me.

George has helped me appreciate music and because of his style of teaching, I want to continue learning.

Playing with Confidence
​Comments from one of George’s adult students:

When I was very young, I took piano lessons and loved the experience, but life got very busy for me and I stopped playing at age eleven. I recently retired and I wanted to return to playing the piano, but it had been at least fifty years since my last lesson, so I felt intimidated about this undertaking.

George Litterst came into my life and he brought back my appreciation of music and he gave me the confidence to start playing the piano again. Hats off to you, George!

George knew I had some musical background and experience, and he adjusted the level of instruction so I felt comfortable taking lessons again. After hearing me play the piano and listening to some of my concerns about my ability to play pieces after my hand surgery, George taught me techniques to further my finger dexterity and he made me more aware about relaxing my hands so I could enjoy the piano and further develop my skills in playing.

He has been very patient and encouraging, and he seems to know when to challenge me.…His lessons are fun and I look forward to continuing our work to improve my ability as a pianist.

Professional Development
Comments from several of George’s peers on the occasion of his 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Frances Clark Center for Keyboard Pedagogy:

“...George is the epitome of an analog piano performer and teacher who has fully embraced the world of technology. He uses technology as a way to enhance the experience of students as they study one of the most fundamental instruments in music…”

“...Beyond such measurable contributions, George has most significantly led by example with his spirit of generosity.…If you asked a question online or sent an email, you may have received an invitation to a Zoom meeting so thorough that it could count as a college credit…”

“...George and I worked [have] traveled together for the e-Competition, met and presented at conferences, tested software, developed remote lesson concepts, and taught each other’s students. There were many moments during these past twenty years when George’s kind encouragement would inspire me to step out of my comfort zone and try something new.…”

​“...When I introduced myself to George, I could not believe how approachable and down-to-earth he was. This technology guru who was respected by so many in our field was talking to me as an equal and made me genuinely feel that I also could make positive contributions to our profession.…George’s innovations have made me a better teacher. They have made my students, including my own kids, better musicians…”